K-pop sensation BTS has decided not to enter their music for consideration at the upcoming Grammy Awards. The group, comprised of seven members known as RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, made this announcement via a joint statement posted on Instagram. In their statement, they expressed a desire for their music to be appreciated for its intrinsic qualities rather than being categorized by region or language. The band extended gratitude to their devoted fan base, ARMY, and all supporters who have stood by them.
This decision comes shortly after the Recording Academy introduced a new category for the best Asian pop music performance in the upcoming Grammy cycle. The category aims to honor outstanding Asian pop music performances, including K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, with a focus on songs utilizing one or more Asian languages. Notably, BTS’s latest album, Arirang, predominantly features English lyrics, potentially affecting their eligibility for this category.
BTS’s Grammy History
Despite receiving multiple nominations, performing at the ceremony numerous times, and being active voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019, BTS has yet to secure a Grammy win. The decision to skip the 2027 Grammy Awards has garnered support from fans like Sokvin Vann, co-founder of BTS ARMY Toronto, who commended the group for taking a stand against what they perceive as exploitation for viewership rather than musical merit.
Grammys CEO Harvey Mason Jr. expressed disappointment over BTS’s choice but acknowledged and respected their decision. He emphasized that the Asian Pop category was established to highlight Asian pop artistry and expand recognition at the Grammys rather than divide it. Mason clarified that artists can pursue recognition in genre-specific categories along with the General Field categories simultaneously.
Industry Criticism and BTS’s Success
BTS is enjoying a successful comeback year following the release of their album Arirang, which debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. Their lead single, Swim, also secured the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Joining a growing list of artists critical of the Grammys, BTS’s decision aligns them with figures like Frank Ocean and The Weeknd, who have publicly questioned or refrained from Grammy submissions in recent years.
Variety senior music writer Steven Horowitz noted that the Recording Academy’s efforts to adapt may never satisfy all critics. While BTS has not explicitly linked their decision to the new category, it signals a reluctance to be confined to a specific label. Horowitz speculated that the group might have resisted being categorized solely as an Asian act, possibly feeling pressured to choose between mainstream pop and Asian pop music.
After captivating audiences at the FIFA World Cup halftime show, BTS is embarking on the North American leg of their Arirang world tour, with a scheduled performance at Toronto’s Rogers Stadium in August.