BTS has announced that it will not submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards, prompting a response from the Recording Academy. The newly created "Asian Pop" category is intended not to segregate Asian music but to provide more opportunities for artists to win awards.
On July 29, Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, expressed disappointment upon hearing that BTS would not participate, stating, "While I was saddened to hear that BTS has decided not to participate in the Grammy Awards, I understand and respect their decision as creators of music."
Mason also addressed the controversial "Best Asian Pop Music Performance" category, explaining that it was established to showcase the diversity and excellence of pop music from Asia. He emphasized that the category is not meant to separate Asian music but to broaden the opportunities for approximately 15,000 Grammy voters to evaluate more artists.
He further clarified that submitting in the Asian Pop category does not exclude artists from competing for major Grammy awards. Works submitted in genres like pop, jazz, or country can still contend for top honors such as Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Record of the Year.
Previously, BTS stated its decision to refrain from submitting music for the 2027 Grammy Awards, expressing a desire for music to be appreciated for its essence rather than being categorized by region or language.
The controversy arose when the Recording Academy introduced the "Best Asian Pop Music Performance" category. Critics questioned whether this move aimed to separate Asian music from the existing major Grammy categories.
In response, the Recording Academy reiterated that the establishment of the new category does not limit eligibility for major awards, stating it is designed to provide more opportunities for musicians regardless of region or language.
BTS first appeared on the Grammy stage as presenters in 2019 and has been nominated for three consecutive years since 2021, yet they have not won an award. This year, the Netflix animated series "K-Pop Demon Hunters" won the award for "Best Song Written for Visual Media."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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