BTS Boycotts Grammys 2027 After Academy Introduces New ‘Asian Pop’ Category

Global music phenomenon BTS has taken a firm stance against the Recording Academy, opting not to submit their music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. This bold move comes amidst reports that the South Korean septet has rejected the newly introduced categories, including the highly anticipated 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance,' igniting a fresh wave of controversy surrounding the prestigious music awards. Narendra Modi Beats IShowSpeed: Know Which Video Is Highest Viewed Reel on Instagram in 24 Hrs.

The Recording Academy officially unveiled five new categories and several rule changes for the upcoming 69th Annual Grammy Awards, slated for February 7, 2027. These additions, announced on June 16, 2026, aim to broaden recognition across diverse genres and creative contributions within the music industry. However, the rejection by BTS, confirmed today, suggests that the Academy's efforts may not have resonated with one of the world's biggest musical acts.

New Categories for 2027 Grammys

The changes for the 2027 ceremony, which will air live on ABC, Disney+, and Hulu, reflect the Academy's ongoing attempt to evolve with the contemporary music landscape. The newly introduced categories are:

• Best Asian Pop Music Performance: This category aims to honor excellence in Asian pop music, encompassing genres like K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, with awards presented to performing artists. This addition was particularly significant given the global rise of K-pop.
• Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance: Dedicated to contemporary R&B works by duos, groups, or collaborations.
• Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance: Recognises singles and tracks that fall outside current pop music forms.
• Best Traditional Folk Album: Honours albums comprising traditional folk recordings.
• Best Latin Song: A songwriter award celebrating newly written Latin songs predominantly in Spanish.

Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr expressed optimism about the updates, stating, “The changes advanced by our Recording Academy members speak to the breadth of today's music industry and the many genres, crafts and creators shaping it.” He further added, “2027 is going to be an amazing year for the Grammy Awards, and one that reflects the extraordinary growth we're seeing across music.”

BTS's Stance and Past Grammy Interactions

BTS officially announced their decision on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, through their social media accounts, stating, “We decided not to submit to the Grammys this year. Rather than music being categorised by region or language, we hope music itself can be heard and loved for what it is.” This stance highlights a long-standing complex relationship with the Grammys. Despite numerous nominations and historic performances, including their groundbreaking solo performance of 'Dynamite' in 2021 and their collaboration with Lil Nas X in 2020, the group has yet to clinch a major Grammy award.

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Past interactions have often led to discussions among their massive global fanbase, ARMY, about whether the Grammys truly recognise the group's artistic merit or merely leverage their immense popularity for viewership. The introduction of a dedicated 'Best Asian Pop Music Performance' category, while seemingly a step towards inclusivity, could also be perceived by some as a move to 'box in' diverse artists rather than integrating them into broader, existing categories. Jungkook’s Viral ‘Gut Genug’ Cover to Jimin’s Hilarious Haaland Walk: Top Moments From BTS’ Arirang Concert in Munich.

If BTS indeed decides to boycott the 2027 awards, it would mark a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about representation and recognition within the global music industry, challenging the Grammys to reflect truly global excellence. The potential absence of one of the world's most influential groups could undoubtedly impact the ceremony's global appeal and viewership, especially in key Asian markets.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 29, 2026 03:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).