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.
The event may have been a celebration of rising, but it was industry veteran Zara Larsson who ultimately stole the spotlight. The 28-year-old Swedish pop sensation turned the red carpet into her personal runway, sparking a viral fashion frenzy that has the internet in a collective meltdown.
Zara arrived in a white textured mini dress that perfectly balanced high-fashion sophistication with her signature “Can’t Tame Her” energy. The dress, noted for its intricate fabric and structured silhouette, served as a crisp canvas for her bold accessory choices.
To elevate the look, Zara leaned into a vibrant, candy-colored palette: Pink lace-up strappy heels that added a touch of feminine rebellion, a playful stack of pink and green bangles paired with oversized statement pink earrings. With a whimsical, sparkly makeup look complemented her signature loose golden locks, creating a “glimmering goddess” aesthetic.
It didn’t take long for the images to hit social media, where fans and fashion critics alike began dissecting every detail. “She has that natural confidence that makes every appearance feel special,” one fan commented on Twitter, garnering thousands of likes. “Oh mother 10/10,” tweeted another.
See her photos from the event here:
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.
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.
