Which Mavis Staples track won Best American Roots Performance at the 2026 Grammys?

Mavis Staples’ “Beautiful Strangers” won Best American Roots Performance at the 2026 Grammys.

The category honors new vocal or instrumental recordings rooted in American musical traditions, including folk, blues, bluegrass, and regional styles. The award goes to the performing artist or artists, which is why Staples—not a songwriter or producer—is the central name attached to this win.

“Beautiful Strangers” was one of five nominated recordings in the 2026 field. The other nominees included Jon Batiste featuring Randy Newman’s “Lonely Avenue,” I’m With Her’s “Ancient Light,” Jason Isbell’s “Crimson and Clay,” and Alison Krauss & Union Station’s “Richmond on the James.”

Staples’ victory added to a long Grammy history. She had previously won Best American Roots Performance in 2016 for “See That My Grave Is Kept Clean,” and in 2026 she also won Best Americana Performance for “Godspeed.” Those are neighboring but separate categories, so “Godspeed” is not the answer to this question.