As the anticipation builds for the 2026 Grammy Awards, the spotlight is once again on BTS, but this time with a twist. Members Jin, J-Hope, and RM have reportedly submitted their solo works for consideration, fueling ARMY's hopes that the group might finally break its Grammy jinx. Despite multiple nominations and undeniable global impact, BTS is yet to win a Grammy Award, a fact that has been a point of contention for their massive fanbase.
BTS has received five Grammy nominations over the years, including consecutive nominations from 2021-2023. The group's performances, such as the "Mission Impossible"-themed "Butter" in 2022, have been memorable, but a win has remained elusive. Some fans have accused the Grammy Awards of using BTS's popularity for viewership without proper recognition.
Following a brief hiatus in 2024 for military service, the members are back, pursuing their individual musical paths. According to reports, Jin has submitted his album Echo for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album categories. His song "Don't Say You Love Me" is also in contention for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Solo Performance. Echo debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, marking Jin's highest solo debut and a strong entry for a K-pop solo artist in the U.S.. It sold approximately 43,000 equivalent units in its first week and topped iTunes charts in over 80 countries. Critics have praised the album's emotional range and production.
J-Hope has reportedly submitted "Killin' It Girl," featuring GloRilla, for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video. He has also submitted "Mona Lisa" for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Global Music Performance, with "Sweet Dreams" potentially vying for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. "Killin' It Girl" was released on June 13, 2025, coinciding with BTS' 12th anniversary.
RM has reportedly submitted his collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion, "Neva Play," as a contender. "Neva Play" debuted at No. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the Top 10 on Spotify Global and iTunes in 87 countries. Critics have described the track as RM's most accessible, blending introspective lyrics with Megan's rap. It is reportedly being considered for Best Rap/Sung Performance and Best Global Music Performance.
Industry experts suggest that RM's "Neva Play" has the strongest chance at a Grammy due to its crossover appeal and U.S. presence. Jin's album had a strong U.S. debut, but he faces competition in the pop categories. J-Hope remains a creative force and fan favorite, but his global metrics might be a hurdle.
The Recording Academy's submission window for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards closed on August 29. The first voting phase is currently underway, with nominations to be announced on November 7, 2025. The final voting will take place from December 12 to January 5, 2026, and the Grammy Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 1, 2026.
