The Recording Academy has announced a significant rules update for the 2026 Grammy Awards, unveiling a new standalone category: Best Album Cover. This fresh addition recognizes the artistry behind the visual presentation of albums—highlighting design, illustration, photography, and graphic art as essential parts of the music experience.
The award honors creativity and excellence in album cover artwork across any genre, giving art directors and designers a dedicated spotlight.
It marks the return of a standalone album-cover recognition that dates back to the Grammys’ early years—separate from broader packaging awards.
Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. emphasized that album covers remain culturally significant—even in the streaming era. They provide the first impression of an artist’s work, often becoming iconic.
The change follows debates over provocative new album art—most notably Sabrina Carpenter’s upcoming Man’s Best Friend cover—illustrating how visuals spark conversation and emotional response.
Changes in the Packaging Field
The Best Recording Package and Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package awards have been merged into one category: Best Recording Package.
The new Album Cover category will stand alongside this in the Packaging, Notes & Historical Field, honoring both overall packaging and individual covers.
The inaugural Best Album Cover Grammy will be awarded at the 2026 Grammy ceremony on February 1, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Album releases during the eligibility window—August 31, 2024, to August 30, 2025—qualify; nominees will be announced on November 7, 2025.
The Grammys’ introduction of Best Album Cover revitalizes the intersection of music and visual artistry. By distinguishing cover design from broader packaging, the Recording Academy affirms the cultural importance of album visuals as enduring art. With the category launching in 2026, expect memorable—maybe even viral—album artwork to become a hallmark of tomorrow’s biggest Grammy moments.
