Spotify Celebrates the 2026 Best New Artist Nominees During a Star-Studded Party in LA
Spotify’s annual Best New Artist celebration returned to Los Angeles last night with a one-of-a-kind tribute to the 2026 nominees. Held at The Lot at Formosa, the event delivered unforgettable performances and star-studded moments, showcasing Spotify’s commitment to championing the voices shaping the future of music.
All of this year’s nominees—Addison Rae, Alex Warren, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, sombr, and The Marías—were in attendance, each performing live on a rotating stage that kept the excitement building throughout the night.
Leon opened the night with a stellar performance of “MUTT,” followed by The Marías, who played “No One Noticed” and other hit tracks. Lola returned to the stage for an emotional take on “d£aler” before Alex led a crowd singalong of “Ordinary.”
Other standout moments included Addison’s performance of her breakout hit “Diet Pepsi,” sombr’s moving rendition of “back to friends,” KATSEYE’s electric set featuring “Gabriela,” and Olivia closing out the night with “Man I Need,” leaving the crowd buzzing.
Diplo and Benson Boone
Edward James, María Zardoya, and Josh Conway of The Marías
Alex Warren
Ashton Irwin of 5 Seconds of Summer, Yungblud, Calum Hood, and Michael Clifford of 5 Seconds of Summer
Addison Rae
Adding even more star power to the celebration, some of the biggest names in music and entertainment were in attendance, including Diplo, Zara Larsson, PinkPantheress, Lewis Capaldi, Shaboozey, Benson Boone, John Summit, and KAYTRANADA.
Event partner Hilton brought its signature hospitality to life with an immersive pop-up suite inside the venue. Inspired by Hilton Honors Diamond Reserve, the newest and most prestigious tier of the brand’s loyalty program, the elevated space offered guests a chance to relax and connect between performances.
As the night came to a close, it was clear that the 2026 nominees are rising stars who are just getting started.
Listen to all of this year’s Best New Artist nominees in the playlist below.
