Recording Academy Adds 5 New Categories for 2027 Grammy Awards, Including Best Asian Pop Performance

The Recording Academy has announced significant changes to the Grammy Awards, set to take effect in 2027, including the introduction of five new categories. Among the most notable additions is the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, which will recognize artists across various Asian pop genres like K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop.

Further expanding its scope, the Academy is introducing a Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance category for artists whose work doesn't fit modern pop classifications. The Best Latin Song category will honor songwriters for their original works in Spanish-language Latin music. Additionally, the folk music categories have been revised, with Best Folk Album renamed Best Contemporary Folk Album and a new Best Traditional Folk Album category added. The R&B field also sees a new Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance category.

Beyond new categories, the rules for the Best New Artist award have been updated. Starting in 2027, artists can submit their work for consideration up to four times, an increase from the previous limit of three. This change reflects the evolving music industry, where artists may take longer to achieve significant recognition.

The Academy will now determine eligibility for Best New Artist based on an artist's impact and influence rather than a strict limit on previously released works. However, artists who have previously received a Grammy nomination will remain ineligible for this category. Certain eligible members will also be permitted to vote in more categories than before.