2026 Grammy Best Album Cover Category Returns After 50-Year Hiatus

Visuals are back in the spotlight. For the first time in over 50 years, the Grammy Awards are introducing a dedicated category for album cover art. The decision, set to take effect at the 68th annual ceremony on Feb 1, 2026, marks a shift from merely evaluating the physical package to honoring the creative directors and artists who craft the visual soul of an album.

The Return of the 2026 Grammy Best Album Cover Category

This year's inaugural nominees represent a masterclass in visual storytelling. The 5 nominees include Tyler, the Creator's monochrome masterpiece 'Chromakopia' and Bad Bunny's nostalgic 'Debí Tirar Más Fotos'. Unlike the 'Best Recording Package' category, these awards focus purely on the cover design, regardless of whether a physical product exists—though all current nominees are available on vinyl or CD.

Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. noted that the move is an effort to recognize the impact of cover art in the digital age. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about the 'unspoken language' shared between the artist and the audience, a sentiment echoed by many of this year's creative teams who poured months into their visual campaign efforts.

Cinematic Inspiration and Artistic Depth

From Djo’s Hitchcock-inspired Hollywood backlot scenes to Wet Leg’s exploration of the 'feral' and feminine, the nominations highlight how a cover can season an entire record. These visuals don't just sit on a shelf; they live with the listener, creating a bridge between the sonic and the physical world.