PCI researcher publishes article on BTS’ Grammy boycott and music industry representation

PCI Researcher publishes a new article in The Conversation exploring the debate around the Grammys' new Asian pop category and what it reveals about representation in music.

Dr Dorothy Finan, Lecturer in Cultural Industries in the School of Performance and Cultural Industries, has published a new article for The Conversation exploring debates around representation in the global music industry.

The article explores the controversy behind the creation of the Recording Academy's "Best Asian Pop Music Performance" category, and what BTS' apparent boycott of the Grammys in response can tell us about who the category of "Asian Pop" excludes. Drawing on Dorothy's research into US-centric narratives surrounding J-pop and K-pop and the history of "idol" production, it suggests that more in-depth research and consultation are needed to make sure any regional categories reflect the broad range of popular music created by artists across Asia. 

The article, What BTS’ Grammy boycott tells us about the problem with ‘Asian pop’ as a label, is available to read on The Conversation.