Philadelphia Artists Shine at Early Grammy Awards

Rock producer Will Yip, jazz bassist Christian McBride, and R&B songwriter Andre Harris among early winners

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Several Philadelphia-based artists were among the early winners at the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony. Jazz musician Christian McBride won two awards, rock producer Will Yip earned his first Grammy, and songwriter Andre 'Dre' Harris co-wrote the award-winning R&B song 'Folded' by Kehlani. Other local nominees, including singer Samara Joy, gospel bandleader Tye Tribbett, and the Philadelphia Orchestra, were recognized but did not win in their categories.

Why it matters

The Grammy wins highlight the thriving music scene in Philadelphia, which has long been a hub for diverse musical talent across genres. The recognition of these artists on the national stage showcases the city's reputation as a breeding ground for innovative and acclaimed musicians.

The details

Jazz bassist Christian McBride won two Grammys - for best jazz performance for his collaboration with the late pianist Chick Corea, and best jazz ensemble album for his big band album. Rock producer Will Yip earned his first Grammy for his work on the album 'Never Enough' by the band Turnstile, which won best rock album. Songwriter Andre 'Dre' Harris co-wrote the award-winning R&B song 'Folded' by Kehlani, which won best R&B song and best R&B performance.

  • The Grammy Awards ceremony took place on Sunday, February 2, 2026.

The players

Christian McBride

A jazz bassist from southwest Philadelphia who has won 11 Grammys over his career.

Will Yip

A rock producer from Philadelphia who won his first Grammy for his work on the album 'Never Enough' by the band Turnstile.

Andre 'Dre' Harris

A Philadelphia-based songwriter and producer who co-wrote the award-winning R&B song 'Folded' by Kehlani.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It is such an honor to have been in Chick Corea's orbit for over 25 years. I was very honored to to witness his legacy of excellence and greatness, watching this man play the piano like no one else did, night after night.”

— Christian McBride (inquirer.com)

“The community we found through punk and hard core music has given us a safe place to swing the dark and land somewhere beautiful.”

— Brendan Yates, Turnstile frontman (inquirer.com)

“It's surreal. Rock album of the year!!! We all came up from...literally out of basements. To this?! It's just a testament to what our community can do. Amazing, man.”

— Will Yip, Rock producer (inquirer.com)

What’s next

The main Grammy Awards telecast, hosted by Trevor Noah, will air later in the evening on February 2, 2026, where additional Philadelphia-area artists like Sabrina Carpenter are up for more awards.

The takeaway

The early Grammy wins for Philadelphia artists like Christian McBride, Will Yip, and Andre Harris showcase the city's vibrant and diverse music scene, which continues to produce acclaimed talent across genres and earn national recognition.