Grammy CEO clarifies Asian Pop category after BTS opts out of Grammys

Grammys CEO Harvey Mason Jr has responded after BTS announced that they will not submit their music for this year’s Grammy Awards. Clarifying the purpose of the newly introduced Asian Pop category, Mason said the category was created to recognise the growth and diversity of Asian pop music and does not prevent artists from being considered in the Grammys’ General Field categories.RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook shared the same message, saying they wanted their music to be heard without being separated by region or language.“We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year. I hope music itself can be heard and loved rather than being distinguished by region or language. Thank you to the ARMY and everyone for always being with me,” the statement read.Following the announcement, Grammys CEO Harvey Mason jr issued a statement addressing the decision and clarifying the purpose of the new Asian Pop category. “I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision,” Mason said.He explained that the Asian Pop category was created to recognise the growth and diversity of pop music from across Asia. According to Mason, the introduction of the category was intended to give more artists a dedicated platform rather than limit their chances of recognition. “The spirit of this new category is to shine a dedicated spotlight on these important artists,” he said, adding that more categories allow the Recording Academy's 15,000 voters to recognise a wider range of music.Mason also clarified that submitting a song in the Asian Pop category would not prevent an artist from being considered in the Grammys' General Field categories. He specifically pointed to Record of the Year, Album of the Year and Song of the Year.“Recognition in a genre category and recognition in the General Field are not mutually exclusive. An artist can absolutely pursue both,” he said.The Grammys CEO added that the Recording Academy wants to continue expanding its reach across different regions and languages. He said the organisation would continue listening to the global music community and recognising artists whose music connects with audiences worldwide.Why BTS' decision has surprised fansBTS' decision comes at a significant point in their career. Their latest album, ARIRANG, their first full-group release since all seven members completed their mandatory military service, had been widely viewed as a strong potential contender for Grammy recognition.The album has enjoyed major global success, including strong streaming numbers, chart performances across several countries and positive reviews. Its performance had led many industry observers to expect BTS to be in contention for nominations.The announcement also follows the Recording Academy's introduction of the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category. The new award is designed to recognise artistic excellence in Asian pop performances featuring one or more Asian languages.BTS did not directly refer to the new category in their statement. However, the timing of their announcement has led to discussions among fans about the Grammy submission process and how Asian artists are recognised by the awards.BTS have previously made Grammy history as the first K-pop act to receive nominations in major categories. The group has received nominations for songs including Dynamite, Butter and Yet To Come.For now, the group's decision means their music will not be part of this year's Grammy submission process, despite the strong global response to ARIRANG.- EndsPublished By: shweta keshriPublished On: Jul 30, 2026 08:33 IST