BTS Snubs 2027 Grammy Nod for Iconic Arirang Performance
BTS has announced they will not submit their critically acclaimed album 'ARIRANG' for the 2027 Grammy Awards, despite being widely tipped as one of the strongest contenders this awards season. The decision comes just one month after the Recording Academy introduced the new Asian Pop Performance category for the upcoming Grammy cycle.
No Awards Campaign for BTS
The seven members of BTS, RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, shared an identical statement through their individual Instagram Stories, confirming that they would not enter any of their music for Grammy consideration this year. Their statement explained that they wanted their music to be appreciated without being defined by geography or language. "I hope the music itself can be heard and loved rather than being distinguished by region and language. Thank you to the ARMY and everyone for always being with me," the statement read.
Commercial and Critical Success of Arirang
The decision has surprised fans and music industry observers alike, especially given the overwhelming commercial and critical success of Arirang. Released in March, the album debuted at No. 1 on several charts, including the Billboard 200, South Korea's Circle Album Chart, Japan's Oricon Albums Chart, Germany's Official Albums Chart, and the UK Official Albums Chart. Its lead single, "SWIM," also made history by becoming BTS' seventh No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, with nearly every track from the album charting on the Hot 100.
Focus on Music, Not Awards
BTS' decision to forgo the awards campaign entirely is expected to spark conversations across the global music industry about representation, award categories, and how artists from non-English-speaking markets are recognised on the world's biggest music stages. The move highlights the group's desire to keep the focus on their music rather than on recognition tied to regional or language-based classifications. This decision may pave the way for a re-evaluation of the Grammy categories and how they reflect the diversity of the global music landscape.
Source: NotJustOk
