This is one outlet's own report from Rolling Stone — the article as it was filed.
Who Is VMA Best New Artist Nominee Magnus Ferrell? (Hint: More Cowbell)
The 2026 Video Music Awards might be in for a little more cowbell this year. Though it's big names like Madonna and Taylor Swift, who dominate the nominations , we're equally interested in some lesser-known artists up for the Best New Artist honor. Namely, Magnus Ferrell .
If that last name sounds familiar, it's because, yes, the 22-year-old is the son of actor and oddball percussion king Will Ferrell , who has been releasing music since the ripe old age of 17. His song "Asleep Talking" was a viral hit, and his smooth, R&B-influenced sound and impressive falsetto feels like something Ron Burgundy might have dreamed about adding a flute solo to. But aside from his Hollywood connections, Magnus has chops. So, what else do we know about him?