Grammys respect BTS's decision not to submit entries, clarify Asian Pop category intent

The Recording Academy has acknowledged and expressed respect for the South Korean group BTS's decision to forgo submitting their music for the 69th Grammy Awards. In a statement posted on the Grammys' official Instagram, CEO Harvey Mason Jr. conveyed regret over BTS's withdrawal from the process but affirmed understanding and respect for their choice as creators.

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We were sorry to hear that BTS would not be participating in this year's Grammy Awards process. However, as creators of music, we understand and respect their decision.

Mason Jr. also sought to clarify the intentions behind the newly established "Best Asian Pop Music Performance" category. He explained that the category was introduced to recognize the "depth, diversity, and incredible growth" of pop music originating from Asia, aiming to shine a spotlight on significant artists. He emphasized that the expansion of categories is meant to allow more artists' work to be acknowledged, broadening the scope of recognition rather than isolating any particular group.

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This category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity, and incredible growth of pop music coming out of Asia. The intent of the new category is to shine a separate light on important artists.

Addressing concerns that submitting to genre-specific categories might exclude artists from major awards, Mason Jr. refuted this notion. He clarified that submitting music to categories like "Best Asian Pop Music Performance," jazz, or country does not preclude artists from also being considered for the general field awards, including "Record of the Year," "Album of the Year," and "Song of the Year." He stressed that these genre categories and the general field are not mutually exclusive, and artists can compete in both.

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When categories are added, more artists' work gets recognized. The intent is not to separate anyone, but to expand the scope of artists that the 15,000 Grammy voters recognize.

The Recording Academy CEO concluded by reiterating the organization's commitment to music and all its creators, regardless of region or language. He pledged to continue listening to the global music community and celebrating artists who move the world through their music. BTS had previously announced their decision not to submit entries, expressing a desire for their music to be appreciated for its own merit, free from regional or linguistic distinctions.

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Submitting music to genre categories like Asian Pop, or Jazz, or Country, does not limit an artist's ability to also be submitted and considered for the General Field categories, including Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year.