Grammys Introduce New Country Album Categories to Reflect Genre's Diversity

The 2025 Grammy Awards are set to see a significant shift in the country music categories, as the Recording Academy has decided to split the best country album award into two separate honors: best contemporary country album and best traditional country album.

This change marks the first time that two country albums will be recognized in the genre field at the Grammys. Experts believe the move is a smart one, as it helps bring the country categories more in line with other genres that had already separated contemporary and traditional albums or performances, including R&B, pop, and blues.

The traditional country category has seen a surge in entries, with 62 albums submitted compared to 68 for the contemporary category. This suggests the traditional side of the genre is more competitive and spans a broader range of artists and musical possibilities. Industry insiders expect to see legendary acts like Willie Nelson competing against rising stars like Zach Top in this category.

Meanwhile, the contemporary country category feels a little less robust, with some artists who may not have made the cut in previous years now having a better shot at a nomination. However, the absence of Morgan Wallen's hugely successful album "I'm the Problem" leaves a notable gap.

Overall, the Grammys' decision to split the country album award reflects the genre's evolving landscape and the need to better recognize its diverse musical styles and cultures.