Get Ready for a fresh Spin at the 2026 Grammys!
Revealed new classifications and schedules - Announced new classifications and timelines for upcoming events
The music industry is bustling with anticipation for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in 2026! With a host of exciting updates and new categories on the horizon, the spectacle promises to be a memorable affair. Here's what you can expect!
The grand event will unfold at the Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles on February 1st, 2026 (February 2nd in Germany), following the nomination announcements on November 7th, 2025.
A Broader Spectrum of Talent Recognized
Recording Academy CEO, Harvey Mason Jr. (57) has shared that the main aim of these modifications is to discover and celebrate a wider array of musical artists and genres. To that end, two new categories - "Best Album Cover" and "Best Traditional Country Album" - will make their debut at the 2026 Grammy Awards. The former will acknowledge exceptional album artwork, while the latter will highlight traditional country music. The existing "Best Country Album" will be rechristened as "Best Contemporary Country Album."
All albums released or due to be released in the interval between August 31st, 2024, and August 30th, 2025, are eligible for nominations.
- Grammys
- Music
- Artists
- New Categories
- ** Changes**
Fresh Start in the Packaging Field
The Best Album Cover category is a sparkling addition to the Grammys, replacing the combined Best Recording Package and Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package categories. The restructuring in the packaging field frees up space for the standalone Best Album Cover award.
Expanded Opportunities for Newcomers
In a welcome departure from the criteria introduced in 2023, contributors to albums nominated for Album of the Year, who appeared on less than 20% of the album, will now be eligible for Best New Artist, even if they had prior nominations that didn't meet the stricter Qualifications.
Stay tuned as these updates promise a more inclusive and diverse Grammy Awards in 2026! Bring on the music, the artists, and the celebrations!
The 2026 Grammy Awards is anticipated to be a night filled with music and entertainment, as the industry eagerly awaits the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Notably, singer-songwriters can now hum along to the rhythm of success with the debut of the "Best Album Cover" category, as they showcase their artistic talent in the music arena – ♪ I'm gonna be a star ♪ ♪ I'm gonna be a star ♪.
