Zara Larsson says first Grammy nomination feels ‘very validating’

Zara Larsson is marking a major career milestone after receiving her first-ever Grammy nomination for her song “Midnight Sun,” an achievement she says feels both emotional and affirming.
The Swedish pop singer said the nomination carries special meaning because of how personally connected she is to the song.

Larsson was deeply involved in every part of the project, from the writing and production to the visuals and overall creative vision. She described the recognition as something that made her feel seen as an artist. “I just feel very validated in my artistic direction,” she said.

Larsson recalled finding out about the nomination while preparing for a performance in Dublin, when her manager called her with the news. She said the moment quickly turned into a celebration among her team. “Everyone was just jumping and celebrating with me. It was really, really sweet,” she said, adding that she later shared the news with her family and closest friends.

While Larsson has previously won multiple Swedish Grammy Awards, this nomination marks her first recognition from the Recording Academy in the United States. She said American acknowledgment has long been an important goal in her career. “I’ve always wanted to be international,” Larsson explained, noting how meaningful it feels to be recognized on such a global stage.

Larsson said she feels honored to be nominated alongside artists she admires and listens to regularly, calling the category full of “superstars.” Even without a win, she said being included among them feels like a victory.

Still, the possibility of taking home a Grammy is exciting. Larsson joked that she already knows exactly where she would place the trophy if she wins, showing both pride and optimism about the moment.

The nomination comes during a busy period for Larsson, who has been touring, opening for other major pop acts, and seeing renewed interest in earlier hits such as “Lush Life.” She said the recognition feels like confirmation that she is moving in the right direction creatively.

For Larsson, the Grammy nomination is more than an industry honour, it’s a moment of validation that reflects her growth, independence, and confidence as an artist.