The Recording Academy is reviewing its newly introduced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category after BTS said the group would not submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards.
The category was announced in June and drew a mixed response. In July, BTS posted a statement across each member’s social media accounts:
“I hope that music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.”
Academy response
On Friday August 14, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. issued a statement addressing the concerns.
“It’s clear from our numerous conversations with many stakeholders over the past two weeks that, regardless of our intent and desire to be even more inclusive, there are some artists in this space who feel that this category isn’t representing the music they work so hard to create, in the way they wish. As a musician myself, I take that to heart.”
He added:
“Over the past six years, the Academy has shown that it can act decisively and move swiftly to meet the needs of our music community. The management and Board are committed to working together to keep pace with that progress and ensure the musicians we intend to honor feel truly seen and heard by our actions.”
Next steps
Mason jr. and other Recording Academy executives have held discussions with artists and executives representing K-pop, J-pop, C-pop, India and other sectors.
The Academy is convening its full Board and Awards & Nominations Committee to seek further input from community members and leaders on the category and on the process for introducing new categories and awards.
