Grammy Awards CEO Harvey Mason Jr. has addressed BTS’ decision to opt out of the 2027 Grammy Awards submission process, saying he respects the group’s stance while clarifying the purpose of the Recording Academy’s newly introduced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
In a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, July 29, Mason Jr. said he was “saddened” by BTS’ decision but emphasized that he understood and respected the group’s choice as a fellow music creator.
His comments came hours after all seven BTS members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook—released a joint statement across their individual Instagram accounts announcing they would not submit their music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards.
The group explained that they want their music to be “heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language,” a move widely seen as a response to the Recording Academy’s recently announced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
Addressing the growing conversation, Mason Jr. defended the introduction of the new category, saying it was designed to celebrate the remarkable growth and diversity of Asian pop music—not to separate artists.
“The Asian Pop category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity and extraordinary growth of pop artistry coming out of Asia,” Mason Jr. said. “More categories mean more artists’ work is recognized. It’s never to divide, but to expand who is recognized by our 15,000 Grammy voters.”
The Recording Academy CEO also sought to dispel misconceptions surrounding the new award, stressing that artists who submit their work in genre-specific categories remain fully eligible for the Grammys’ prestigious General Field awards, including Record of the Year, Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
“I want to be very clear,” Mason Jr. added. “Submitting music in a genre category such as Asian Pop, or Jazz or Country, does not exclude an artist from also submitting and being considered in the General Field categories.”
He concluded by reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to serving artists worldwide, saying it would continue listening to the global music community as it expands its membership and awards.
BTS’ decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about how international artists are recognized at major Western music awards. The seven-member group has earned five Grammy nominations throughout its career—including nods for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video—but has yet to secure its first Grammy win.
Since 2019, all seven BTS members have also served as voting members of the Recording Academy.
The 69th Grammy Awards are scheduled to take place on February 7, 2027.
The post ‘I Respect Their Decision’: Grammys CEO Says He’s ‘Saddened’ by BTS’ Decision Not to Submit Music for 2027 Awards appeared first on Nigerian Entertainment Today.
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