Number of Grammy Awards categories 1959-2023

When the Grammy Awards were introduced in 1959, 28 different categories were available in which to win an award. In 2009, the number reached its highest level with 110 categories, and during the 2023 Grammys, awards were presented in 91 categories.

Grammy Awards categories - additional information

The first edition of the Grammy Awards (originally called the Gramophone Award) was held on May 4, 1959 simultaneously on both American coasts: one ceremony took place in the Grand Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton, in Los Angeles, while another function was held in New York City. On January 28, 2018 the award show held its 60th edition. The Grammys are awarded by members of the United States National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) in recognition of excellence in the recording arts and sciences. Since the year 2000, the Latin Grammy Awards is a separate ceremony, which honors excellence in musical works recorded in either Spanish or Portuguese, notwithstanding their country of origin.

The number of categories has fluctuated since the first edition of the Grammys, reflecting changes in the music industry in terms of technologies and trends. In the first edition, only 28 Grammy categories were presented, such as Best Vocal Performance, Best Jazz Performance, Best Comedy Performance and Best Recording for Children. Nowadays the Grammys recognizes music videos, films, and remixed recordings as well as traditional formats.