Drake dropped jaws this week when he announced intent to withdraw entries for his blockbuster last album, ‘Certified Lover Boy,’ from GRAMMY consideration despite being nominated for Best Rap Album (‘Certified Lover Boy’) and Best Rap Performance (‘Way 2 Sexy’ featuring Future & Young Thug’) at next year’s ceremony.
While shocking to some, the move is in line with his previously revealed stance about the Academy – one voiced in earnest during last year’s headline-grabbing fiasco with his fellow Canadian hitmaker, The Weeknd, when the latter was snubbed and didn’t see any of his ‘After Hours’ songs recognized by the GRAMMYs (despite being one of the year’s biggest albums).
With more eyes on the Academy’s voting committee than ever with regards to improved transparency, diversity, and inclusion, its CEO, Harvey Mason Jr., sat down with Billboard recently to discuss these subjects and more.
Hop inside to see what he said.