The Grammys have received some new rules and regulations according to The Recording Academy.
The annual event that recognizes the top contributors in the world for music has received criticism over the years for some of its practices of voting and handing out awards. As being the premier event and gold standard for music by many people, artists such as The Weeknd, Drake, Kanye West, and more have questioned The Recording Academy.
Following the removal of “secret voting committees,” The Recording Academy has officially unveiled and implemented the new rules and guidelines for the Grammy Awards. As per a report from Business Wire, the majority will be effective immediately, which means they’ll have an impact on next year’s ceremony taking place in January of 2022. It should be noted that one of the rules impacting album eligibility will only go into effect in 2023.
Among the rules that are to be implemented moving forward — the Best Dance Recording category has been changed to Best Dance/Electronic Recording, which ultimately widens the scope of possible inclusion. The Album Of The Year award amendments now ensures that in order to be considered, a project must include 75% worth of “newly recorded material,” though the window extends to a generous five years. In addition, all credited artists and contributors on a given album will now be eligible to be included as nominees.
Adjustments for eligibility pertaining to film music categories were also made, which allows film soundtrack composers to decide whether to go for the Grammy when the soundtrack releases or actively waiting until the film comes out.
Speaking on the changes, Harvey Mason jr., Chair & Interim President/CEO of the Recording Academy, had this to say:
Our peer-driven awards process is all about engagement, and nothing is more invigorating than seeing our members take part in submitting proposals to move the Academy forward. We’re proud to work alongside today’s music creators to ensure their vision for the music industry is reflected in all that we do, and to continue our commitment to transparency by making these updates readily available to anyone that wishes to submit their art for Grammy recognition.”
