BTS Announces Boycott of 2027 Grammy Awards
K-Pop Group Cites Concerns Over New 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' Category
Quick Look
BTS boycotts 2027 Grammys, citing concerns that new 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category divides music by region/language, despite their album 'Arirang' being a top seller with mostly English lyrics.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
BTS's previous Grammy nominations and performances
BTS have announced they will not submit their music for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, citing concerns over the new 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category. In a coordinated Instagram post, all seven members expressed hope that music could be judged on its merit rather than region or language. Their album 'Arirang', mostly in English, was expected to compete in major categories but would have been ineligible for the new Asian pop award due to its English lyrics. Fans and some artists criticized the category for pigeonholing Asian artists. BTS joins a list of boycotting artists including The Weeknd and Drake, who have previously spoken out against the Grammys' oversight of diverse artistry. The Recording Academy has not responded. BTS's decision reflects broader concerns about cultural identity and recognition in global music awards.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Increased debate over cultural representation in music awards
Likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- Will other K-Pop groups follow BTS's lead?
