The Grammy nominations have often overlooked K-pop artists, but this year’s list includes unexpected K-pop contributions. aespa and Stray Kids join BTS as K-pop acts associated with Grammy-nominated works, showcasing an evolving global presence for the genre.

Grammy Nominations Reveal Surprising K-pop Ties

On November 8, 2024, the Recording Academy announced its Grammy nominees, covering artists like Beyonce, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Bruno Mars. While no K-pop groups received direct nominations, aespa and Stray Kids made their mark indirectly through collaborations. Their involvement in Grammy-nominated projects signifies a unique step forward for K-pop’s integration into the U.S. music scene.

aespa’s Feature in Grammy-Nominated Project

The K-pop girl group aespa appears in Jacob Collier’s album Djesse Vol. 4, which is nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album. The song “Over You” features aespa alongside Coldplay’s Chris Martin, bringing the group into Grammy conversations. This collaboration, although indirect, represents an achievement for aespa and highlights the growing appeal of K-pop acts in collaborative projects.

Stray Kids’ Contribution to Grammy-Nominated Soundtrack

Stray Kids also gained an indirect Grammy connection through their track “Slash,” which is part of the Deadpool & Wolverine soundtrack album. This soundtrack, nominated for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Visual Media, brings Stray Kids closer to Grammy recognition, showcasing the global reach of K-pop music and its role in Hollywood.

BTS: The Only K-pop Group with Direct Grammy Nominations

While aespa and Stray Kids join the Grammy conversation, BTS remains the only K-pop group to receive direct Grammy nominations to date. Their first nomination came in 2021 for the hit song “Dynamite” in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category. BTS later earned nominations in 2022 and 2023 with songs like “Butter” and their collaboration with Coldplay, “My Universe,” again in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category. These milestones for BTS have paved the way for future K-pop Grammy nominations.

Future Prospects for K-pop in the Grammys

Several other K-pop acts, including Lisa, TWICE, Jungkook, ATEEZ, and Stray Kids, submitted entries for Grammy consideration this year. Although none received direct nominations, the involvement of aespa and Stray Kids in nominated projects marks an evolving recognition for K-pop artists within the prestigious awards.

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