The Recording Academy has announced five new categories for the 2027 Grammy Awards, further expanding recognition for music from different parts of the world.
The decision reflects the Academy’s commitment to celebrating diverse musical cultures and giving artists from various regions greater visibility on one of the biggest stages in the music industry.
The new categories are:
Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance
Best Latin Song
Best Asian Pop Music Performance
Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance
Best Traditional Folk Album
The announcement comes two years after the Grammys introduced the Best African Music Performance category, which was created to honour the growing global influence of African music. The category has helped shine a spotlight on African artists and sounds that have gained international popularity in recent years.
South African singer Tyla made history in 2024 by becoming the first winner of the Best African Music Performance award with her hit song Water. Nigerian singer Tems followed in 2025, winning the category with Love Me JeJe. In 2026, Tyla secured her second victory with PUSH 2 START, becoming the first artist to win the award twice.
Music industry observers have welcomed the introduction of the new categories, describing it as another important step towards making the Grammy Awards more inclusive. The Best Asian Pop Music Performance category is expected to recognise the rapid growth and worldwide appeal of Asian pop music, while Best Latin Song will honour excellence in Latin songwriting and composition.
The Recording Academy said the additions reflect changes in the global music landscape, where artists from different cultures continue to reach wider audiences through streaming platforms and international collaborations.
The five new categories will make their debut at the 2027 Grammy Awards, further strengthening the Academy’s efforts to ensure that outstanding music from across the world receives the recognition it deserves.
Grammy 2027 is expected to hold February 2027.
