The field may not be as wide open as it appears.
Stella Quaresma, Jorja Douglas and Renée Downer of FLO at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards held at Peacock Theater on September 27, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Michael Buckner/Billboard
Best progressive R&B album is always a fun category to watch, and some of this year’s biggest presumed contenders aren’t even in the running.
Steve Lacy (Oh Yeah?) and Erykah Badu & The Alchemist (Before the Wind Blows?) were widely expected to compete in this category with their respective albums, but both opted to enter their projects in best alternative music album. That opens up two spots in best progressive R&B album, which already boasts a dizzying lineup of formidable competition.
Which artists are closest to a lock for a nomination? Durand Bernarr, FLO and Leon Thomas. After taking home the trophy for BLOOM at the 2026 ceremony, Bernarr is the defending champion in this category. He dropped BERNARR. on the heels of that win,
