Our predictions by genre

This year’s nominees almost all displayed glimmers of individuality, putting some character into the timeless R&B; themes of romance and personal struggle that dominate the field.

Best Female Vocal Performance: Likely winner Ashanti puts sultry, understated pain and aggravation into her accessible heartbreak ballad “Foolish.” But Jill Scott’s sprawling, live jazz-flavored “He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat) (Movements I, II, III)” is the most distinctive statement.

Best Male Vocal Performance: Crooner Joe should prevail with his sexy-sweet slow burn “Let’s Stay Home Tonight.” But Musiq deserves the award for his tender, miserable brooding over the uncertain aftermath of bedding a female friend in “Halfcrazy.”

Best Urban/Alternative Performance: Sympathetic voters may reward last year’s winless seven-time nominee India.Arie for her self-affirmation “Little Things.” But Erykah Badu’s heartfelt “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip Hop)” probably will (and should) win.

Best R&B; Album: Raphael Saadiq’s “Instant Vintage” has it all: sensitivity, danceability and a highly inventive modern-retro blend of sounds. It’s the likely and deserving winner.

Best Contemporary R&B; Album: Ashanti’s self-titled crowd-pleaser is likely to win. But Meshell Ndegeocello’s “Cookie: The Anthropological Mix Tape” deserves the award, not only for its sonic creativity but also for its racial, social and historical ruminations.

-- Natalie Nichols