Grammy Awards expand global categories and update rules
The Grammy Awards are set to undergo significant structural changes starting from the 2027 edition, marking one of the most notable updates in recent years. The Recording Academy has introduced new categories and revised eligibility rules aimed at reflecting the evolving global music landscape and increasing representation across genres.
New categories highlight global and regional music growth
Among the major additions are categories such as Best Asian Pop Music Performance, Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance, Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance, and Best Traditional Folk Album. These changes aim to recognize the growing influence of diverse musical styles across international markets, including K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop under the Asian pop umbrella. The expansion signals a stronger push toward inclusivity and global representation in mainstream award platforms.
Eligibility and submission rules revised
The Academy has also updated eligibility criteria for albums and artist submissions. The requirement for original recordings in an eligible album has been reduced from 75% to 66%, allowing greater flexibility for hybrid projects that include remixes or live versions. Additionally, artists may now be submitted up to four times for consideration in certain categories, increasing opportunities for recognition in the Best New Artist category.
Voting system changes to increase participation
A new optional voting system called “Ballot Plus” has been introduced, allowing qualified members with multi-genre expertise to vote in up to 15 peer-related categories. This shift is designed to broaden participation while maintaining professional credibility in voting decisions. Industry observers believe these reforms could reshape how winners are selected and improve representation across diverse musical fields.
