The Grammy Award for Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical was introduced just two years ago, and since its inception, no woman has taken home the prestigious title. However, this year’s pool of contenders holds the promise of changing that narrative.
A New Era of Recognition for Female Songwriters
Since its inception in 2022, the Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical Grammy category has seen four female nominees: Amy Allen, Nija Charles, Laura Veltz, and Jessie Jo Dillon. However, male songwriters have taken home the award both years, with Tobias Jesso Jr. winning in 2023 and Theron Thomas in 2024.
This year’s competition boasts a diverse and talented pool of 61 songwriters vying for nominations, with 20 women aiming to break the barrier and make Grammy history. Could this be the year a woman’s name is finally etched onto the coveted award?
Previous Grammy Winners and Nominees Set Their Sights on the Prize
Among the hopefuls are several Grammy veterans, including two previous winners. Amy Allen, recognized for her contributions to Harry Styles’ Album of the Year winner Harry’s House, and Diane Warren, who won in 1997 for “Because You Loved Me”, bring their songwriting prowess and Grammy experience to the competition.
Eight other nominees are no strangers to the Grammy stage, having received nominations in previous years. Sarah Aarons, Caroline Ailin, Jessi Alexander, Brittany Amaradio (Delacey), Ink (Atia Boggs), Ali Tamposi, and Emily Warren return with the hopes of securing their first win.
A New Generation of Songwriting Talent Emerges
Adding to the excitement of this year’s Grammy race are ten first-time nominees hoping to make their mark. Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Jessie Early, Julia Gargano, Sarah Hudson, Lauren Lee Hungate, Steph Jones, Kayla Morrison, RAYE, Sasha Alex Sloan, and Betsy Walter represent the future of songwriting, bringing fresh perspectives and sounds to the forefront.
Breaking Barriers and Challenging Norms: RAYE’s Nomination
The inclusion of singer-songwriter RAYE on the list of nominees challenges the traditional understanding of the category. While the award typically focuses on songwriters who primarily write for other artists, RAYE’s eligibility stems from her prolific work both as a solo artist and a songwriter for others.
Her notable contributions to songs like Rita Ora’s “Ask & You Shall Receive,” Halle’s “Because I Love You,” and Beyoncé’s “Riiverdance,” alongside her own successful music career, demonstrate the breadth of her talent and mark a significant moment for the evolving music industry.
Celebrating the Legacy: First Female Songwriters to Win in Other Categories
The quest for recognition in the Songwriter of the Year category is built upon the achievements of groundbreaking women who paved the way. These trailblazers shattered glass ceilings and earned Grammy Awards for their songwriting talents across various genres:
- Song of the Year: Carole King, 1972, “You’ve Got a Friend.”
- Best Rock Song: Alanis Morisette, 1996, “You Oughta Know.”
- Best R&B Song: Betty Wright, 1976, “Where Is the Love.”
- Best Rap Song: Miri Ben Ari, 2005, “Jesus Walks.”
- Best Country Song: Debbie Hupp, 1980, “You Decorated My Life.”
- Best Song Written for Visual Media: Cynthia Weil, 1988, “Somewhere Out There.”
- Best American Roots Song: Edie Brickell, 2014, “Love Has Come for You.”
- Best Gospel Song: Yolanda Adams, 2006, “Be Blessed.”
- Best Contemporary Christian Song: Laura Story, 2012, “Blessings.”
- Best Contemporary Classical Composition: Joan Tower, 2008, “Made in America.”
A Milestone Year for Female Songwriters?
The 2025 Grammy Awards hold the potential to be a historic year for female songwriters. With a record number of women nominated for Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical, the music industry eagerly awaits the announcement of the nominees on November 8th. The winners will be revealed at the Grammy Awards ceremony on February 2nd, where the world will witness if the glass ceiling is finally shattered.
