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BTS boycott Grammys after introduction of new Asian pop prize
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- BTS has withdrawn from the 2027 Grammy Awards in protest against the introduction of a new category for best Asian pop music performance, expressing a desire for music to be appreciated beyond regional or language divisions.
- The Recording Academy introduced the new Asian pop category, alongside a best Latin song category, aiming to celebrate diverse genres, but this move has raised concerns that Asian pop artists might be segregated from major award categories.
- BTS is likely to have qualified for the new Asian pop category due to their predominantly Korean-language album Arirang, unlike other K-pop acts whose nominated songs featured mostly English lyrics.
- Asian pop artists have historically been underrepresented at the Grammys, with BTS being the first K-pop act nominated in 2021 and recent wins marking progress, yet the new category's creation has sparked debate over inclusivity.
- The 2027 Grammy Awards will also introduce new categories for best R&B collaboration, best traditional pop vocal performance, and best traditional folk album, with the ceremony scheduled for 7 February in Los Angeles.
