The Recording Academy will finally accept streaming links instead of physical product for award submissions in most categories. In a statement, the Academy also said, “For most categories, we would prefer streaming distribution links for online entry submissions, though CD submissions remain optional.”
The cost of submitting multiple physical copies has been an issue for smaller record labels.
The Recording Academy has accepted streaming only tracks for award eligibility since 2016 when Chance the Rapper’s Coloring Book became the first streaming-only album to win a Grammy. Technically, however, Chance had to burn copies to even be considered.
Only Select Streamers Are Eligible
“Eligible streaming services are Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify and Tidal,” the Academy siad in a statement. “In cases where a recording is not available on these services, physical product will continue to be required. For music video/film and certain craft categories, physical products are still required.”
Missing from the list are Napster, Apple Music, Deezer and several other music streamers available in the US, each of whom could host exclusive tracks that are otherwise eligible.