Grammy Awards 2026 Nominations: Number of Categories and New Additions
For 2026, the Grammy Awards have expanded to a record 95 categories. Two new awards have been introduced: Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover. The existing Best Country Album category has been split—now recognized as Best Contemporary Country Album—to separately honor traditional and modern styles within the genre.
The Best Album Cover category recognizes the renewed importance of visual art in the streaming era, placing celebrated designers in the spotlight alongside musicians.
Nomination and Eligibility Timeline
- Eligibility period: Recordings released in the U.S. between August 31, 2024, and August 30, 2025.
- Nominations voting: October 3 to October 15, 2025. Voting members select up to 10 categories related to their expertise to ensure high-quality, informed choices.
- Nominees revealed: November 7, 2025, via a globally streamed event.
- Final voting for winners: December 12, 2025, through January 5, 2026.
- Awards ceremony: February 1, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, broadcast on CBS and Paramount+.
Major Artists Not Eligible in 2026
Prominent superstars such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Adele are absent from the 2026 Grammy field. Swift’s album “The Life of a Showgirl” missed the eligibility window, and neither Beyoncé nor Adele released new, eligible projects in the required timeframe.
This leaves the field open for other major contenders, including Kendrick Lamar (“GNX”), Lady Gaga (“Mayhem”), and Bad Bunny (“Debí Tirar Más Fotos”), who are all generating considerable anticipation for the evening.
Industry Impact and Rationale Behind New Categories
The changes were informed by consultation with artists and industry leaders, reflecting shifting genre boundaries and the growing importance of visual expression in music. The new Best Album Cover award acknowledges album art as a vital part of music branding in the age of digital streaming and social media. Splitting the country album category recognizes the distinct traditions within country music and gives traditional artists dedicated recognition.
The expansion also enhances opportunities for newcomers and emerging talent, with more categories offering increased visibility and chances for recognition. The annual evolution of Grammy categories demonstrates the Academy’s dedication to keeping pace with cultural and industry shifts.
Key Presenters and Ceremony Details
The live nominations reveal features a lineup of star presenters, including last year’s Best New Artist winner Chappell Roan, joined by Gayle King, Karol G, Lizzo, Mumford & Sons, Nicole Scherzinger, Sam Smith, Angélique Kidjo, Brandi Carlile, and CeCe Winans. The ceremony will be streamed on Grammy.com and YouTube, emphasizing the event’s accessible, celebratory spirit. The top winners will be announced live on the night of February 1, 2026.
Disclaimer:
The information provided regarding the Grammy Awards 2026 nominations is based on official announcements and timelines. Changes to categories, eligibility, and voting procedures may occur. Please refer to the Recording Academy for the most up-to-date details.
