Why Filipino Pop Powerhouses SB19 & BINI Are Embracing the Grammys’ Asian Pop Category: ‘We See It as a Door Opening, Not a Box Closing’
As several high-profile K-pop acts sit out the 2027 Grammys, two of P-pop's biggest stars share why they decided to enter.
SB19 and BINI, two of the Philippines' most prominent pop acts, have voiced their support for the Grammy's new Asian pop music performance category. The Recording Academy recently introduced this category as one of five additions for the 69th Grammy Awards. SB19's leader, Pablo, emphasized that it would demonstrate the Philippines' capability to produce original, world-class music.
BINI members Aiah and Maloi also expressed their view that the category represents an opportunity for Filipino music, describing it as a door opening rather than a box closing. This support comes after extensive debate surrounding the new category, with some critics arguing it risks segregating Asian artists into a distinct field.
Despite these concerns, the Recording Academy received 116 submissions for the category, indicating a strong public backing for its implementation. Both SB19 and BINI have been working on their international presence for years, with SB19 debuting in 2018 and becoming the first Southeast Asian act nominated for top social artist at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
