The organization behind the Grammys will cease using the term « urban » to describe music of black origin in its awards.
« It may also incorporate production elements found in pop, euro-pop, country, rock, folk, and alternative. »
Harvey Mason Jr., chairman and interim CEO of the Recording Academy, said in a statement that major rules and guidelines have been introduced for the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards « to ensure the Grammy Awards are inclusive and reflect the current state of the music industry. »
Tyler, The Creator is among prominent industry figures to have spoken out about the Grammys’ categories, saying « urban' » was racially insensitive and belittled the innovation of black music.
« It sucks that whenever we — and I mean guys that look like me — do anything that’s genre-bending or that’s anything they always put it in a rap or urban category, » the 29-year-old producer and vocalist told reporters after winning the best rap album at January’s ceremony.
