Grammy predictions: Lady Gaga is ready for her coronation

Could the same fate befall Lady Gaga? She hasn’t won one of the big four awards (album, record, single, new artist) but could come through this year. Her biggest competition for the Album prize is Bad Bunny, who could be a beneficiary of the academy’s invitation to Latin Grammy voters. They’re now in the fold and could spell “denial” for Gaga.

Another story to watch: How Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo fare. Snubbed by Oscar voters, they’re in the hunt for a Grammy for their “Defying Gravity” duet. This could give them some redemption and scare the “KPop Demon Hunters” folks.

Business as usual? If surprises are “usual,” then, yes, but Sunday’s Grammy Awards promise to be a night of tears — and trends.

By category, here’s who’s likely to win:

Album of the year

Lady Gaga would finally win under other circumstances, but she’s up against Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar, both formidable. They’ll all get something, but it’s time to pay old debts. Winner: Lady Gaga. But if Bad Bunny is the winner, don’t be shocked.

Song of year 

Gaga figures in here, as well, but “Golden” (from “KPop Demon Hunters”) is on a roll. Winner: “Golden,” KPop Demon Hunters.

Record of the year

This could be Gaga’s, too. If she has a threat, it’s Sabrina Carpenter. Still, a night for Lady Gaga would be a great way to celebrate the year in music. Winner: “Abracadabra,” Lady Gaga.

New artist

Olivia Dean. She only has one nomination and she’s huge. (Sure, those songs can contend next year, but it’d be criminal to ignore her this year.) Possibility: Leon Thomas.

Pop duo/group

Here’s where things get fun. That “Wicked” duet goes head-to-head with “Demon Hunters” and could settle some scores. OR … Bruno Mars and Rose could win. We’re going with Bruno, a Grammy darling.

Pop album

Lady Gaga, “Mayhem.” Carpenter could win this one, but if Gaga is going to have a night, here’s a good way to rack up an armful of trophies.

Traditional pop album

Gaga is here, too, but she’ll have a hard time pulling it away from Brandi Carlisle and Elton John (or Laufey). Give it to the new Tony Bennett/Gaga duo, Brandi and Elton.

Pop solo

Here’s where Sabrina Carpenter (“Manchild”) gets to come out of Gaga’s shadow. She’ll win, even though Chappell Roan is in the mix.

Rock album

Deftones, “Private Music.” Haim has a shot, but let’s not get carried away.

R&B album

Leon Thomas, “Mutt.” But Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor is also here. Maybe she’s going to capitalize on the good karma.

Rap album

Here’s where Kendrick Lamar gets the love for “GNX.”

Country album

Tyler Childers would seem like the Grammy choice. Eric Church, too, but Kelsea Ballerini has been overlooked so often (by country organizations, specifically), it’s time she comes into her own. Give her a trophy for “Patterns.”

In other categories

Musical theater album: Usually, the Tony winner gets it, which means “Maybe Happy Ending” is the winner. But “Buena Vista Social Club” could benefit from those new voters. Now, it’s a toss-up.

Progressive R&B album: "FLO, “Access All Areas.”

Alternative album: Hayley Williams, "Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party." 

Latin pop album: Karol G, “Tropicoqueta.”

Comedy album: Ali Wong, “Single Lady,” which already won an Emmy.

Music video: Here’s a great place for Sabrina Carpenter (particularly since Beyoncé isn’t in the mix).

Music film: “Music by John Williams.” It’s a great tribute to a big Grammy (and Oscar) winner.

Visual medium compilation: Another battle between “Wicked” and “KPop Demon Hunters.” But don’t overlook “Sinners.” It’s gathering momentum, too. If Ariana and Cynthia show, they’re due something. This could be it.

Visual medium song: “Golden,” KPop Demon Hunters.