We knew this would be a problem.
The Weeknd tells the New York Times he’s boycotting the Grammy Awards because they totally snubbed him this year.
He says in a story about the Grammys: “Because of the secret committees,” the Weeknd said, “I will no longer allow my label to submit my music to the Grammys.”
The Weeknd had the best selling album of 2020, “After Hours,” and a number 1 hit that has stayed high on the charts, “Blinding Lights.” His label, Columbia, put out a greatest hits record in advance of the Super Bowl that has been a huge hit, too.
So while the Grammys will have many big stars and performances — and maybe even Adele or Beyonce — they’ll be missing the biggest star of the last year.
This would be as if the Oscars just ignored a main movie of significance in a given year because someone on a committee didn’t like the director or his agent. It can’t be done.
This isn’t the first time the Grammys have omitted a big star or album, and I dare say this isn’t about race. A few years ago they overlooked Justin Timberlake’s highly praised “The 20/20 Experience” album. It was the biggest seller– massive– of 2013. But the Grammys just chucked it. No explanation.
So, it happens.
Justin Bieber is also boycotting the Grammys. That’s because he’s made his album only got a nomination in Pop Vocal, not in R&B, a traditionally Black category. Bieber is not Black. He has delusions of grandeur, or something. Anyway, that’s a fight no one will pick for him. He should be grateful people speak to him.
As for The Weeknd, he clearly doesn’t need the Grammys. I don’t know why the Recording Academy a)let that happen and b} didn’t do something to appease The Weeknd immediately. But no one asked me.
The show will go on, Sunday, with a 3pm live stream and an 8pm show on CBS.
