As music’s biggest night approaches this weekend, a New York Times article is shedding light on the criticism the Grammys have faced in recent years. Among issues with gender, diversity and Ariana Grande’s last minute performance drop out, the article revealed that a few major hip-hop stars declined to take the stage at all.
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Grammys producer Ken Ehrlich told NYT that Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Childish Gambino were all approached to perform at the ceremony, but declined. Over the years, the award show has “alienated” hip-hop stars after they lose in the prestigious categories, including song of the year, record of the year and album of the year. All three hip-hop artists are nominated throughout the general field categories this year.
“The fact of the matter is, we continue to have a problem in the hip-hop world,” Ehrlich said. “When they don’t take home the big prize, the regard of the academy, and what the Grammys represent, continues to be less meaningful to the hip-hop community, which is sad.”
The 2019 Grammys will air live from Los Angeles’ Staples Center on Sunday, Feb. 10, at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST on CBS.