SB19 and BINI enter the Grammys' new Best Asian Pop Music Performance race
Filipino groups SB19 and BINI have put songs forward for the Grammys' new Best Asian Pop Music Performance award.
Both groups confirmed their entries in an interview with Billboard published on 13 October. They are competing in the inaugural race for the category at the 69th Grammy Awards, to be held in 2027 Billboard.
SB19 submitted two songs, "VISA" and "LAWLESS", for consideration at the 2027 Grammys ABS-CBN. BINI submitted three entries, including the song "Unang Kilig" in the Best Asian Pop Music Performance category ABS-CBN. A submission is an entry put forward for voters to consider. It is not a nomination.
The category was announced by the Recording Academy on 16 June as one of five additions for the 2027 show. It is for singles or tracks only, with vocals, and is defined by the Academy as recognising artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances Recording Academy. To qualify, a recording must feature meaningful use of one or more Asian languages.
That language rule was reviewed. On 1 October, the Academy said it would proceed with the category under its current rules. Academy chief executive Harvey Mason Jr. said the loudest voices passionately supported keeping it.
The new race is busy. It drew 116 submissions in its first year. Nominations will be decided by Academy voters at a later date.
SB19 leader Pablo said the category would show the world that the Philippines is a source of original, world-class music. BINI members Aiah and Maloi said of the category: "We see it as a door opening, not a box closing." SB19 also issued a statement thanking supporters for believing in the group and calling for continued support for Filipino music on the global stage.
SB19 is a five-member group made up of Pablo, Josh, Ken, Stell and Justin. They left their original label in 2023 to start their own company, 1Z Entertainment. In 2021, they became the first Southeast Asian act nominated for Top Social Artist at the Billboard Music Awards. Their single "DAM" topped Billboard's World Digital Song Sales chart in 2025.
For fans, this means a waiting game. Two of the Philippines' most followed acts are in the pool, but so are more than 100 other entries.
Two high-profile K-pop acts are not in that pool. BTS said on 29 July it would not submit its music for Grammy consideration this year, and Stray Kids also did not submit music, according to Billboard.
