BTS Opts Out of Grammys as Academy Defends Asian Pop Category
BTS announced they will not submit their album Arirang for Grammy consideration, prompting a response from Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. who says he’s saddened by the decision but clarifies that the newly created Best Asian Pop Music Performance category is meant to celebrate Asian pop, not exclude artists. Artists can still compete in General Field categories like Record, Album, and Song of the Year. The piece notes a growing trend of artists skipping the Grammys, citing Morgan Wallen’s 2025 decision.