The Weeknd Vows to Boycott Grammys

Canadian singer, The Weeknd who was snubbed when the 2021 Grammys nominations were announced has vowed to boycott the award going forward.

He disclosed this in a statement released to The New York Times.

“Because of the secret committees, I will no longer allow my label to submit my music to the Grammys.” the singer said.

The Weeknd joins a growing list of black stars, like Drake, Kanye West and Frank Ocean who have publicly rebuked the Grammys for racial bias.

Reacting to the singer’s statement, Harvey Mason Jr., a producer and songwriter who is the academy’s interim chief executive, said that the organisation is dedicated to improving itself. 

“We’re all disappointed when anyone is upset,” Mason said.

“But I will say that we are constantly evolving. And this year, as in past years, we are going to take a hard look at how to improve our awards process, including the nomination review committees.

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“As part of its efforts to change, the academy has invited thousands of new members, hired a diversity officer and ‘brought more women and people of color into its committees and leadership.’ “The changes have been transformative.”

Coming to the singer’s defense, Chris Anokute, a music executive, had said the singer “clearly made the album of the year,” at least as far as popularity goes.

“If his peers didn’t vote for him, that’s a shame — if that’s the truth,” Anokute said. “We don’t really believe that’s the truth; there’s just no way. But we really don’t know.”

For years, The Grammy awards has been facing a number of accusations including bias against women and Black artistes, and complaints over an opaque voting system that critics say is unfair and not realistic.