The Recording Academy has made adjustments to its regulations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, introducing five new categories. The academy revealed on Tuesday the addition of a new category for best Asian pop music performance, recognizing releases in genres like K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop. Additionally, a new category for best traditional pop vocal performance will honor artists whose music deviates from contemporary pop styles.
Furthermore, a new category for best Latin song has been introduced to acknowledge songwriters behind Spanish-language songs. Changes have also been implemented in the R&B and folk categories. A new award for best R&B collaboration or duo/group performance has been added alongside the revamped best R&B solo performance category.
Similar to the shift in the country genre last year, the folk category has undergone a transformation, with the best folk album category being rebranded as best contemporary folk album. Moreover, a new category for best traditional folk album has been included.
Apart from the new categories, modifications have been made to the criteria for certain awards. Notably, adjustments have been made to the best new artist category, allowing artists to submit up to four times instead of three. The aim is to better align with the evolving music industry landscape, recognizing that breakthrough success can take time.
There are no specific restrictions on the number of previous releases for eligibility, with a screening committee determining an artist’s impact on the music industry in the eligibility year. Artists who have received a Grammy nomination in the past are deemed ineligible for the best new artist category.
Additionally, the Grammys will expand the voting privileges in certain categories to qualified members. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Grammy Awards, highlighting the industry’s growth and diversity in music genres. Mason emphasized that the changes reflect the evolving music landscape and celebrate the creators shaping the industry.
