For the past couple of years, the GRAMMYS organization has faced backlash for their controversial methods in regards to the annual award show. One of their issues was using the term “urban” to describe music of black origin. On March 10, The Recording Academy announced the best urban contemporary album prize will be renamed Best Progressive R&B album.
The academy stated this effort is “intended to highlight albums that include the more progressive elements of R&B and may include samples and elements of hip-hop, rap, dance, and electronic music.”
GRAMMY Award ceremonies have been televised live since 1971. Since then not many changes have been made as to how they produce and organize the award show.
Harvey Mason Jr., chairman and CEO of the Recording Academy, said “[The category change] is to ensure the Grammy Awards are inclusive and reflect the current state of the music industry.”
This change is intended to to into effect for the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.
