Recording Academy May Revamp New Asian Pop Category For 2027 Awards
The Recording Academy is consulting Asian pop artists and industry figures over its new Best Asian Pop Music Performance Grammy category, which could be redesigned for the 2027 awards. The review follows BTS’s decision not to submit recordings in protest, arguing that music should not be divided by region or language.
The category was announced on 16 June as one of five new Grammy awards, but first-round voting begins on 12 October and nominations are due on 16 November. Academy chief Harvey Mason Jr. said discussions have included K-pop, J-pop, C-pop and Indian music representatives, labels, managers and HYBE; the organisation will also reconsider how transparently it creates future categories after surpassing 100 awards.
- Grammy organisers may redesign the Asian pop category for 2027.
- BTS boycotted submissions, citing concerns over regional categorisation.
- The Academy is consulting industry representatives before voting begins.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of a dedicated Asian pop category argue that it can correct a longstanding gap in Grammy recognition for artists working in commercially and creatively important Asian music markets. A carefully designed award could bring greater visibility to performers who may otherwise be overlooked in broad, English-language-dominated categories, while acknowledging the distinct industry infrastructure and audiences around styles such as K-pop, J-pop and C-pop. They may also see consultation with artists and labels as a responsible way to ensure the category reflects the people it is intended to recognise.
The case against
Critics argue that grouping music by region or language risks treating Asian artists as separate from the main artistic competition, even when their work is globally successful and comparable with any pop release. They contend that awards should be based on musical achievement rather than an artist’s origin, and that a regional category can unintentionally reinforce the idea that Asian pop does not belong in general pop fields. From this perspective, the better remedy for under-recognition is fairer voting and more inclusive nomination practices across existing categories.