Summary
The Recording Academy has split the Grammy Award for best country album into two categories: best traditional country album and best contemporary country album. This decision came after Beyoncé won the country album category at the 2025 Grammy Awards, prompting discussions about the genre's evolution. The shift aims to honor both traditional country music and its modern influences from genres like pop and hip-hop.
Key Facts
- The Grammy Award for best country album is now split into two: traditional and contemporary.
- Beyoncé won the 2025 Grammy for best country album, which sparked widespread surprise and discussion.
- The Recording Academy says the new categories recognize both country music's roots and its modern influences.
- Modern sounds in country music include pop, rap, and hip-hop elements.
- The change has been seen by some as a reaction to Beyoncé's win, though it was reportedly considered for years.
- Previous Grammy changes include creating new awards and modifying existing ones to keep up with music trends.
- The decision is part of a broader pattern of updating Grammy categories to reflect evolving music styles.
