Photo Credit: Tems/Instagram

The GRAMMY Awards are getting a refresh in 2026, with the Recording Academy introducing two brand new categories: Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover. This exciting update reflects the ever-evolving musical landscape and aims to honour a broader spectrum of creative talent.

These additions also bring fresh excitement for fans and creators alike. Whether you’re a country enthusiast or a vinyl lover drawn to striking visuals, the new categories invite a broader audience to see themselves reflected on music’s biggest stage.

“Whether you’re a country fan or a vinyl collector who loves stunning album covers, there’s a new GRAMMY category with your name on it,” the Recording Academy teased.

Speaking to GRAMMY.com, CEO Harvey Mason jr. explained the motivation behind the changes: “Each year during our Awards & Nominations review, our focus is on refining our rules, uncovering anything that is no longer working, and ensuring we are celebrating our creative community in the most meaningful way,” he said.

“I’m thrilled that many of this year’s changes … allow us to honour even more creators. That’s always a positive outcome for me. But even more importantly, these are much-needed updates that ensure those who are making significant contributions to the musical process are properly recognised and have the opportunity to be celebrated on Music’s Biggest Night.”

One of the most notable additions is Best Album Cover, a category that acknowledges the power of visual storytelling in today’s digital-first world. “In today’s digital world, album covers are arguably more impactful than ever,” Mason jr. continued.

“Their cultural significance is undeniable. That’s one of the reasons members of the art director community and our Awards & Nominations members felt [the Best Album Cover] category was necessary. The Packaging Field has always thrived, but we expect this to be one of our most inclusive categories to date.”

The country genre is also receiving a more nuanced platform. The existing Best Country Album category will now be renamed Best Contemporary Country Album, making room for the newly established Best Traditional Country Album. This shift acknowledges the genre’s ongoing evolution and also the resurgence of its roots.

“Country music has evolved in a major way over the past decade, with traditional country experiencing a massive resurgence, growing in popularity and volume,” Mason jr. said. “This action by our members now opens the door for us to celebrate more artists and a wider range of music. By adding this new Category and renaming the Country Album Category, we’re creating more space for all the diverse artists who are shaping the future of country music.”

These changes come on the heels of a landmark 2025 GRAMMYs ceremony. Kendrick Lamar took home five awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “Not Like Us.” Meanwhile, Tems took home award (her second Grammy win) for Best African Music Performance for her hit “Love Me JeJe,” and Beyoncé made history with her long-awaited Album of the Year win for “Cowboy Carter,” which she dedicated to trailblazing country artist Linda Martell.

The 2026 GRAMMYs will take place on Sunday, February 1 in Los Angeles, with nominations set to be announced on Friday, November 7, 2025.

The post Big Changes Ahead! The GRAMMYs Introduce Best Album Cover & Traditional Country Categories for 2026 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: Priscilla Ojo /Instagram

These photos of Priscilla Ojo and Juma Jux could easily pass for a second traditional wedding ceremony, one might think the couple tied the knot again just weeks after their lavish celebration in Lagos, where they had both their traditional and white wedding.

But no, they haven’t said “I do” twice.

The photos are actually taken from the newly released music video for “God Design,” a track by Juma Jux featuring Nigerian rapper Phyno.

The video is a rich showcase of African culture, and Juma Jux and his wife, Priscilla, embraced that spirit fully—dressed in head-to-toe Igbo style. Juma Jux wears a deep red velvet outfit with gold patterned detailing. His red cap is crowned with a long, cream feather, and his neck is layered with coral beads. On his wrist is a single beaded bracelet, and in his hand, he carries a circular fan bearing a lion’s face and the words “AFRICAN BOY.”

Priscilla complements his look in a silver gown with a structured, floral-appliqued bodice. Her gele is large and sculptural, sitting proudly atop her head, and she completes her look with a silver-and-gold necklace, matching bangles on both wrists, and a ring. The gown’s skirt falls in soft, draped layers that move beautifully.

It’s a look that wouldn’t feel out of place at a traditional wedding.

See the full look in the photos below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Priscilla Ajoke Ojo (@its.priscy)

The post Juma Jux and Priscilla Ojo Went Full Igbo Royalty in “God Design” Visuals | See Photos appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: Priscilla Ojo/Instagram

Juma Jux is turning a milestone moment into a musical keepsake.

The Tanzanian artist just dropped the visuals for “God Design,” his collaboration with Nigerian rapper Phyno—and it’s not just a video, it’s a love letter. Released on the same day as his traditional wedding to Priscilla Ojo, the track takes on an even deeper meaning, bringing their celebration full circle.

Jux appears in traditional Igbo attire, a respectful nod to Nigerian culture that quickly resonated with fans. “From Otunba to Odogwu,” one viewer wrote, summing up the artist’s transformation with affection. His wife, Priscilla is dressed in silver Igbo regalia, and she look so beautiful.

The video also includes the people closest to them: Priscilla’s mother Iyabo Ojo, her friends Chioma Ikokwu and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, and Liam, the son of the late Mohbad. Jux’s siblings and uncle also appear, adding to the sense of home and shared celebration.

Watch the video below:

The post Juma Jux and Priscilla Ojo Let Love Lead in “God Design” Video feat. Phyno appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Credit: Juma Jux/Instagram

The fashion, the glam, the stunning looks, Priscilla Ojo and Juma Jux’s traditional wedding gave us all that and more. But beyond the showstopping style moments, something even more special unfolded: a brand-new song from the groom himself, titled ‘God Design,’ featuring Nigerian rap star Phyno.

Now this is a wedding gift we didn’t see coming, but we’re loving every bit of it. ‘God Design’ marks the third time Juma Jux has made music for his bride. First came  ‘Ololufe Mi,’ then ‘Si Mimi,’ and now ‘God Design’—released on their wedding day to honour the love they share.

“This one’s for our Traditional Wedding season. Forever starts now,” Juma shared on Instagram

The track is part of his 7-track EP ‘A Day to Remember,’ which he describes as “a soundtrack to our love story.” And true to that, ‘God Design’ captures the joy, excitement and deep emotion of the celebration. Lyrics like “Ayo mi ti de” (my joy has come) and “This is God’s design, and forever you’ll be mine” echo the promises made during the ceremony.

Phyno drops a smooth verse, bringing extra flavour to the track and just when you think it couldn’t get any sweeter, Iyabo Ojo, the bride’s mum, closes out the track with a prayer for the couple’s new beginning.

What a moment. What a tune.

Listen to ‘God Design’ below.

The post Juma Jux Just Made the Sweetest Wedding Song ‘God Design’ for Priscilla Ojo appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.