03 August,2026 02:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
BTS Members (Pic via AFP)
BTS' relationship with the Recording Academy has come under fresh scrutiny after fans noticed that several of the group's Grammy performance videos were no longer available on the Academy's official platforms. The move came just days after BTS announced they would not submit their music for the 2027 Grammy Awards in protest against the newly introduced Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, prompting speculation that the removals were linked to the boycott.
The controversy began after BTS issued a joint statement explaining that they would not enter the 2027 Grammys because they believe music should not be divided by region or language. The group said they wanted their work to be appreciated "for the music itself," rather than being categorized based on geography or language. Their decision followed the Recording Academy's introduction of the new Asian pop category, a move that sparked mixed reactions across the global music industry.
Soon after the boycott announcement, fans claimed that Grammy performance videos featuring BTS, including performances of chart-topping hits such as Dynamite and Butter, had disappeared from the Academy's official website and YouTube channel. Many ARMY members accused the Recording Academy of disrespecting the group, with hashtags criticizing the organization gaining traction on social media.
However, the claims have been disputed. Several fans and online communities pointed out that the Recording Academy had removed performance videos featuring multiple artists as part of broader content management or licensing changes, and that the BTS removals were not necessarily targeted. Moderators on major K-pop forums also flagged posts alleging deliberate retaliation as unverified or misleading.
The Recording Academy has not publicly stated that the videos were removed because of BTS' boycott, nor has it officially responded to speculation surrounding the missing clips. Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. has previously expressed disappointment over BTS' decision not to participate in the 2027 awards but reiterated that artists remain eligible for the general Grammy categories despite the introduction of the new Asian Pop award.
BTS' boycott has ignited a wider debate about representation in global music awards. While some view the new category as a step toward recognizing Asian artists, others including BTS and many fans argue that creating region-specific awards risks separating Asian musicians from mainstream competition instead of promoting equality.
Despite the controversy, BTS continue to enjoy a successful comeback with their latest album ARIRANG. Although the group's relationship with the Grammys remains uncertain, their decision has sparked an international conversation about inclusivity, recognition and how global artists should be celebrated on the world's biggest music stages.
