The recent announcement of Chris Brown’s nomination in the Best African Music Performance category at the 2025 Grammy Awards has ignited a wave of discussions and debates within the music industry and among fans. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, has addressed the controversy, emphasizing the evolving nature of global music and the inclusivity of the awards.
Chris Brown’s track “Sensational” from his album 11:11 (Deluxe Edition) earned him a spot in the newly established Best African Music Performance category. This nomination, alongside nods for Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Album, brings his career total to 25 Grammy nominations, with one prior win.
Critics have expressed concerns over Brown’s inclusion in a category designed to celebrate African music, citing both his past controversies and questions about the authenticity of his contributions to the genre. In response, Mason Jr. highlighted the global influence of African music, stating that it has become “prevalent everywhere in the world” and is now “part of pop music.” He emphasized the Recording Academy’s commitment to adapting and recognizing the dynamic nature of music worldwide.
This isn’t the first time the Grammys have faced scrutiny over their association with Chris Brown. In 2012, his prominent presence at the awards, three years after his assault on Rihanna, drew significant criticism. At that time, Mason Jr. defended the decision, stating that the Academy’s judgments are based on “music professionals listening to the music of other professionals” and that delving into artists’ personal lives would be a “slippery slope.”
The introduction of the Best African Music Performance category itself has been met with mixed reactions. While some celebrate the recognition of African music’s global impact, others argue that such an award is long overdue. Ian Brennan, a Grammy-winning producer, remarked that while the inclusion is “progress,” it remains “long overdue.”
As the 2025 Grammy Awards approach, the Recording Academy’s decisions continue to spark discussions about the balance between artistic merit, personal conduct, and cultural representation. Mason Jr.’s defense of Brown’s nomination underscores the organization’s stance on inclusivity and the evolving landscape of global music.