Why BTS Decided Not to Submit ‘Arirang’ for 2027 Grammy Consideration
BTS has chosen not to submit their latest album, Arirang, for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, and there’s a reason behind their decision.
“We have opted out of submitting for Grammy consideration this year,” the seven members — RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook — stated in a joint Instagram message shared on Tuesday, July 28. “We hope our music is appreciated and cherished for its essence, rather than being compartmentalized by region or language.”
They wrapped up with, “We are grateful to [BTS] Army and everyone who has consistently supported us.”
Only a month prior, the Recording Academy had introduced a new category for Best Asian Pop Music Performance for the upcoming Grammys.
“This category acknowledges outstanding artistic achievements in Asian pop music performances that originate from or are widely celebrated in Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, showcasing significant use of one or more Asian languages,” reads the category description. “The awards will be given to the performing artist(s).”
BTS released their sixth album, Arirang, in March, marking their first release since the band’s hiatus in 2022 while the members undertook their military enlistments and engaged in solo projects.
“I realized it’s likely not something I can dismiss just because I want to stop,” J-Hope, 32, shared with Rolling Stone in an April profile about the band’s reunion. “Personally, I’m heavily influenced by those around me, and I need to consider the emotional repercussions my decisions may have on so many others. Ultimately, I felt that keeping the spark alive is what I genuinely desire, and it aligns with my true self.”
Suga, 33, expressed that the members pursued solo careers because they “couldn’t collaborate as a group at that time.”
“Before heading off to the military, I was certain we would eventually reunite. But I can understand how it might seem surprising from an outsider’s viewpoint,” he said. “For us, it felt natural to stay together. Thus, no one really questioned that. I always thought, ‘Of course we’re doing this.’”
Upon its launch, Arirang sold 641,000 copies in the U.S. during its first week and reached the top of Apple Music’s charts in over 115 countries.
“I’ve been telling the members, ‘If we don’t take risks anymore, then I believe there’s no reason for us to continue as a group,’” RM, 31, shared with Rolling Stone. “We need to demonstrate to the world that we are still evolving and pushing boundaries. It’s quite intricate at times. Nonetheless, I feel we must stretch it even further, and it’s still not sufficient.” He chuckles at his own fervor.
