Robert Randolph wins first Grammy for “Best Contemporary Blues Album”

Robert Randolph earned his first career Grammy Award in Los Angeles, winning “Best Contemporary Blues Album” at the 2026 Grammy Awards for Preacher Kids. The win marked a long-awaited milestone for Randolph, who had previously been nominated six times without a victory.

Randolph took home the award in a highly competitive category where all five nominees were seeking their first Grammy win. The nominees included Breakthrough by Joe Bonamassa, Paper Doll by Samantha Fish, A Tribute To LJK by Eric Gales, Preacher Kids by Robert Randolph, and Family by Southern Avenue.

Released to widespread acclaim, Preacher Kids received a perfect 10/10 score from Blues Rock Review writer Lee Clark, who praised the album’s impact and spiritual intensity. Clark wrote, “There are times when hearing new music feels like a religious experience, like something a monk in an ancient text would describe receiving in a euphoric vision. This record is one of those points. At one point, I wrote down in my notes, ‘the spirit of Jimi Hendrix was in the room while this was being laid down.’ Preacher Kids is definitely a contender for album of the year, and I cannot praise it or recommend it enough to blues rock lovers.”

The album was released by Sun Records and produced by Shooter Jennings, showcasing Randolph’s ability to blend blues, rock, gospel, and soul into a deeply personal and electrifying statement. Randolph also discussed the album in detail during an appearance on the Blues Rock Show in November, where he spoke with Blues Rock Review Editor-in-Chief Pete Francis about the meaning behind the record and its long creative journey.

During his Grammy acceptance speech, Randolph reflected on the significance of the moment and the road it took to get there. “I don’t have any words,” Randolph said. “I’m nominated against all my friends. It’s been a long 20 years. I’ve been nominated seven times.”

Randolph thanked all those who have supported his career.