Who will win big at the Grammys? Our critic weighs in with his predictions

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

The nominees: "25," Adele; "Lemonade," Beyoncé; "Purpose," Justin Bieber; "Views," Drake; "A Sailor's Guide to Earth," Sturgill Simpson.

Our pick: It's four bestsellers plus Simpson's critically adored, adventurous Americana effort. Despite its blockbuster and industry-saving sales, Adele's "25" is not as satisfying as its Grammys-sweeping predecessor, "21." Let's hope voters realize that and recognize a far worthier work, Beyoncé's bold, ambitious and socially aware "Lemonade."

BEST NEW ARTIST

The nominees: Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Chance the Rapper, Anderson .Paak, the Chainsmokers.

Our pick: The finals find two impressive country thrushes, two rising names in hip-hop and a Top 10 pop/electronica duo that needs a guest singer to deliver their hits, including Halsey on the chart-topping "Closer." The hyper-creative Chance, who had a big-selling streaming album, deserves this prize. Grammys voters will reward him, as they did a few years ago with lesser known jazz musician Esperanza Spalding.

RECORD OF THE YEAR

Our pick: A year ago at the Super Bowl, Beyoncé introduced "Formation," a declaration about how black lives matter. Since Grammy voters cast their ballots after the presidential election, her protest piece is even more relevant, and it will prevail with the Grammys electoral college.

SONG OF THE YEAR

The nominees: "Formation" sung by Beyoncé; "Hello" sung by Adele; "I Took a Pill in Ibiza" sung by Mike Posner; "Love Yourself" sung by Justin Bieber; "7 Years" sung by Lukas Graham.