The Weeknd’s 2020 album After Hours was released in March and gained significant traction. Tracks such as Blinding Lights became viral on Tik Tok and kept people dancing throughout quarantine.
After Hours was a massive success, topping the charts and becoming a certified platinum album just two weeks after being released. The album was released during a time where most countries were entering a lockdown, which forced The Weeknd and his team to get creative with how they marketed the new release. Regardless of the trying circumstances, After Hours was a hit.
Taking into account the success of the album, many were surprised when it received zero Grammy nominations this year. The singer was quick to snub the Grammys saying:
The Grammys remain corrupt. You owe me, my fans and the industry transparency…
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) November 25, 2020
The singer’s statements were met with a lot of positive reinforcement. His fans and other music-fanatics took to social media to express their disappointment that The Academy failed to recognize After Hours.
The Weeknd’s statements prompted other artists to speak out, Nicki Minaj tweeting:
Never forget the Grammys didn’t give me my best new artist award when I had 7 songs simultaneously charting on billboard & bigger first week than any female rapper in the last decade- went on to inspire a generation. They gave it to the white man Bon Iver. #PinkFriday
— Mrs. Petty (@NICKIMINAJ) November 24, 2020
President of The Recording Academy, Harvey Mason Jr., responded to The Weeknd’s statements stating, “We understand that the Weeknd is disappointed at not being nominated. I was surprised and can empathise with what he’s feeling. His music this year was excellent, and his contributions to the music community and broader world are worthy of everyone’s admiration.”
What do you think? Are the Grammy’s corrupt? Should The Weeknd have been nominated for certain categories? Comment below!