> At a Glance
> – Alex Warren, 25, is nominated for Best New Artist at the 2026 Grammys
> – He told CBS Mornings he was never “the best singer in class” and his choir teacher “did not believe”
> – The viral star has now placed five songs on the Billboard Hot 100, including a No. 1 hit
> – Why it matters: Warren’s rise shows how social-media fame can pivot into mainstream music success
Alex Warren’s path from Hype House creator to Grammy-nominated artist is anything but ordinary.
From Self-Doubt to Chart-Topper
In a preview of his January 26 CBS Mornings interview, Warren admitted he lacked the stereotypical pop-star credentials.
> “My entire life, I wasn’t the best singer in my class. I wasn’t amazing.”
Warren credits his raspy tone and emotional delivery for setting him apart.
- First found fame on TikTok with the Hype House collective
- Released debut single in 2021
- Now counts five career Hot 100 entries
Grammy Stage Awaits
The singer says earning the Best New Artist nod felt “very validating” after years of grinding.
> “I think I’ve worked really hard to become who I am today.”
Warren will face Olivia Dean, KATSEYE, The Marías, Addison Rae, Sombr, Leon Thomas, and Lola Young when the awards air February 1 from Los Angeles.
| Peak Position | Song |
|---|---|
| No. 1 | “Ordinary” |
| Charted | “Burning Down” |
| Charted | “Bloodline” feat. Jelly Roll |
| Charted | “On My Mind” feat. Rosé |
| Charted | “Eternity” |
Key Takeaways
- Warren’s choir teacher doubted his vocal future
- Social-media popularity paved the way for a music career
- His wife, Kouvr Annon, was the first person he hugged after hearing the nomination news
With a Grammy nomination under his belt, the once-overlooked singer is now part of music’s biggest night.
