A new Grammy category honoring album cover art debuts right as Sabrina Carpenter’s artwork steals the spotlight

NEW YORK (AP) — In a move that reflects the evolving intersection of music and visual artistry, the Recording Academy has officially revised its rules for the 2026 Grammy Awards, unveiling a brand-new category dedicated exclusively to best album cover. This change comes just one day after pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter sparked a flurry of online buzz by debuting the eye-catching artwork believed to accompany her highly anticipated upcoming album.

Announced on Thursday, the Academy revealed that two existing categories—best recording package and best boxed or special limited edition package—will now be merged into a single, streamlined best recording package category. Meanwhile, the best album cover will now stand as its own independent honor, spotlighting the visual creativity and artistic direction that play a critical role in the music experience. This decision marks a significant moment in Grammy history, recognizing the growing cultural impact of album artwork in the streaming and social media era.

The most recent Grammy for best recording package was awarded to Charli XCX’s bold and minimalist album Brat, a visual aesthetic that quickly caught fire across pop culture and inspired countless memes. The viral success of that cover—combined with rising fan appreciation for album visuals—likely influenced the Academy’s decision to give cover art its own moment in the spotlight.

“Our top priority is to represent the music creators we serve,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, in an official statement. “That means constantly listening to our members and adapting our rules and categories to reflect the current landscape of music. By doing so, we’re making sure we accurately recognize the wide range of talented individuals who bring these projects to life.”

As the Grammy Awards continue to evolve, this new category underscores the importance of visual storytelling in modern music—and gives designers, photographers, and art directors their long-awaited chance to take center stage at music’s biggest night.