The news involves aesthetics, pop culture and a lot of nostalgia and can turn the game next season of music awards
After years when album covers became true visual marks in pop culture, the Grammy decided to highlight this essential element of the musical experience: from 2026, we will have an exclusive category for Best album cover.
Until then, visual recognition came through the Best Recording Packagewhich celebrates the full graphic design of the album, but left out limited editions and box sets (these have won their own prize since 1995). Now, the academy has decided to rearrange the visual categories to follow the rhythm of the current market, where the vinyl has stood out very much.
Remember that this is not the first time the cover has its moment of glory. In the first edition of Grammyin 1959, the category already existed under the name Best album cover, And the winner was none other than Frank Sinatrawith Sings for Only the Lonely. The name has changed over the decades to reflect the transformations of the industry, until it becomes Best Recording Package In 1994. Now, in the middle of 2025, the cover returns to the center of the stage with a category just for her.
The change comes at a good time: with records like Bratfrom the Charli XCXcausing both musical and visual impact (the album even took the Best Recording Package In 2024), it is clear that aesthetics matters (and a lot) in the way we consume music today.
Beyond the debut of Best album coverthe Grammy 2026 also brings other updates: the category of Best traditional country albumwhile the already known Best country album it is called Best contemporary country album. The category of Revelation artist It was also expanded and now considers who participated in albums indicated to Album of the yearas long as they do not exceed 20% of the total disk time.
The award rolls on February 1, 2026, straight from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The broadcast will be live by CBS and also at Paramount+. And beware: this will be the last time the ceremony will be displayed by CBS. In 2027, the Grammys Migrate to Disney/ABC. Note on the agenda: The nominees will be revealed on November 7, 2025.
So, do you already have your favorite cover to cheer?
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Source: Rollingstone

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.