Leading up to the Grammy nominations on Nov. 7, Rolling Stone is breaking down 10 different categories . For each, we’re predicting the nominees, as well as who will (and who should) win on Grammy night.

The addition of two new country categories — Best Traditional Country Album and Best Contemporary Country Album — opens the door for 10 albums to now earn nominations. And that’s a great thing for country. The move is a reflection of a genre that’s both digging deeper into its roots and stretching higher than ever.

“Storytelling is the key for all of these albums, regardless of the sonics,” says Claire Heinichen, Senior Editor for Country at Spotify. “The main difference between the categories is what instruments you’re using to tell the same kinds of stories.”

The Traditional categ

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