Album covers have long been a listener’s first look at music, turning songs into visuals that capture the artist and the moment.

For the first time in more than 53 years, the 2026 Grammys are bringing back the award for ‘Best Album Cover.’ In the past, the award for Best Recording Package included both the album’s visuals and any physical materials that accompanied it. Album covers will now have their own separate award, aside from best recording package.

Nominated Albums

The nominees for the first Grammy Award for Best Album Cover are Chromakopia by Tyler, the Creator, an artist long recognized for treating albums as cohesive visual projects. By taking control of the creative direction, Tyler continues to blur the line between sound and image. The way he positions album artwork as a narrative device rather than just a marketing tool is genius.

That same approach defines Debí Tirar Más Fotos by Bad Bunny, who was also the art director. The album’s visuals highlight intimacy and memory. The artwork is an intentional part of the music, not just decoration.

The Crux by DJO (aka Joe Keery) focuses on mood and atmosphere. Glory by Perfume Genius channels vulnerability to bring the emotions of the music to life. In contrast, Moisturizer by Wet Leg adopts more of a playful visual language towards the audience, demonstrating that creativity has no limits for an effective album.

“It’s part of the language and the fabric of what makes a great record a great record,” said nominated photographer Neil Krug to the Associated Press. “When you have the physical vinyls in your home or your apartment, that stuff lives with you.” Krug was recently nominated for his contribution to the album cover for The Crux.

His comments echo the Grammys’ decision to bring back the award: album covers aren’t just disposable visuals. They’re cultural artifacts that shape how we experience and remember music over time. Streaming may dominate, but physical album art still matters.

What Makes an Album Cover Grammy-Worthy?

Splitting these categories makes it easier to highlight the impact of cover art in today’s digital-focused music world. Recording Academy voters are responsible for evaluating each cover’s creativity and design, with the award going to the album’s art director. Designers, photographers, and illustrators who contributed to the artwork will receive certificates in recognition of their work.

“In today’s digital world, album covers are arguably more impactful than ever,” said the Recording Academy. CEO Harvey Mason Jr in an interview with the Grammys. “Chances are, there’s an iconic cover that’s instantly recognizable to you, even if you’ve never owned the physical album. Their cultural significance is undeniable.”

Visual impact matters more now than ever, as it serves as a significant branding tool in the streaming culture, helping to establish the artist’s aesthetic that accompanies their music and contributes to building their image.

The Grammys kick off on February 1.