World-renown K-pop band BTS becomes the first-ever Korean artist to be nominated for a Grammy!
The septet boyband BTS will be competing with top international stars following their nomination for the Grammy Awards on Tuesday, Nov. 24. In line with this, Korean music and cultural critics expressed their professional views over the nomination and discussed BTS's chances to win the title.
BTS Becomes First Korean Singer to Earn Grammy Nomination
Grammy, one of the most prestigious pop music award ceremonies in America, announced its list of candidates for various categories on Tuesday to prepare the 63rd Grammy to be held next year. Based on its official website, BTS full-English and digital track, "Dynamite," which was released in August, secured a spot and was nominated for the "BEST POP DUO/GROUP PERFORMANCE" category.
In particular, the global group that is dominating local and international charts captured the ceremony's attention after it participated in 2019's Grammy as presenters.
Meanwhile, BTS proved their amazing skills and potential through collaboration with Lil Nas X in the following year. Their nomination is indeed a huge step to prove the influence and range their music has finally reached. Currently, K-pop enthusiasts and media around the world are focused on if the amount of power and fame of BTS will make them the first-ever Korean boyband who could win a Grammy in history.
Will BTS Win a Grammy? Music Critics Respond
On Wednesday, Nov. 25, Korean Media outlet released an article sharing the views and opinion of music critics about the value of Grammy and the possibility of BTS to win the award.
The Grammy Awards began in 1959 and is the most prestigious award in the music industry, hosted by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS). The winners will be decided by voting by members of the Academy, consisting of music industry workers, and awards will be given in 43 categories, including albums, singers, arrangements, recording, and jacket design.
As such, the Grammy Awards have been criticized for being exclusive to non-English-speaking music and singers, although it is called the "highest authority" award ceremony as it identifies all elements, sets, and awards candidates. According to a cultural critic Ha Jae Geun, Grammy is conservative and authoritative. That's why getting a nomination is already a significant sign. If Grammy opened to BTS, it is also in question if other top Korean artists could possibly be nominated in Grammy's in the future.
When asked about BTS's chance to win, the cultural critic laughed but left a meaningful answer saying, "Dynamite has gained popularity around the world. Recently, there have been trends in the U.S. award ceremonies to give prizes to colored people, Asians, and women, trying to escape criticism of being 'white-centered.' I think it's possible if that continues."
In addition to this, popular music critic Kang Tae Gyu also praised BTS for reaching Billboard and Grammy, which is not expected even by critics. He also thinks that BTS winning chances is high. Nevertheless, cultural critic Park Song Ah believes that win or lose, BTS nomination for Grammy is already a huge step to prove the dignity of Korean pop music history.
Candidates for BTS's nominated category "Best Pop Duo/Group Performance" includes Justin Bieber and Quavo, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and Bon Iver.
The 63rd Grammy Awards will be held on January 31, 2021. Make sure to watch it!
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Written by: Eunice Dela Cruz.
