Grammys winner list revealed a disappointing lack of diversity

For the past few years, many of the entertainment award shows have received extensive criticism over the lack of diversity in the representation of both nominees and winners.

A week ago, at the Grammys award show, there was, once again, a huge overhaul of white artists. Album of the Year went to Taylor Swift for 1989. The title of Best New Artist is now held by Meghan Trainor, and Song of the Year was Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud.” The top three spots easily taken by white pop artists. But who were they up against? Album of the Year could have totally gone to the Kendrick Lamar’s arguably more well-deserved record To Pimp a Butterfly or The Weeknd’s Beauty Behind the Madness. Likewise, Song of the Year could have gone to a more diverse artist –– Kendrick Lamar, who took a nomination in almost every top category in which he was eligible (11 in total).

Though diversity was found in genres such as R&B, rap, soul and gospel, the real issue is recognizing diversity within the realm of popular radio music culture. R&B, rap, soul and gospel were all born out of largely black communities, with some roots tracing all the way back to traditional African music. Mainstream music however,  is still largely dominated by white people, a fact grounded in an old generational representation in popular culture. Despite the fact that popular music, especially at award shows is seemingly an “all white” wash-up, Business Insider reports that 81 percent of Billboard’s Top 10 albums are now made by non-white or mixed race groups, but that number doesn’t seem to be represented at award shows like the Grammys.

Similarly, next Sunday, the Oscars will be presenting another racially charged scenario for voters of the entertainment industry. Interestingly enough, all actors and actresses up for best actor, actress or supporting role is white. In the past we have had winners such as Lupita Nyongo, Jennifer Hudson and Jamie Foxx, but this year, for the second time in a row, there is little to no cultural diversity.

It’s important to recognize this issue, to break down the racial stigmas that have ruled the entertainment world since the beginning of time. As we’ve seen, in all realms of entertainment there are diversity issues despite the fact that there are millions of incredibly talented singers, musicians, directors and actors who are not white. Bringing to light the obvious lack of racial diversity within the entertainment industry will hopefully underscore the importance of encouraging and giving due recognition to artists of all backgrounds in all arenas of the entertainment world.