Rosé of BLACKPINK has made history as the first K-pop artist to earn nominations in the Grammy Awards’ general field categories, a milestone that cements her growing global influence as a solo performer.
The singer received three Grammy nominations for her 2024 collaboration with Bruno Mars, “APT.,” including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, according to The Hollywood Reporter. She is also nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, bringing her total to three nods this year.
Rosé’s nominations mark the first time a K-pop act has broken into the Recording Academy’s top categories, which typically feature mainstream Western artists. Her recognition highlights how Korean pop continues to expand its reach and impact across global music markets.
In an interview with Billboard, Rosé expressed feeling “incredibly honored” by the acknowledgment and credited her fans for their unwavering support. “This means so much not just for me but for everyone who believed that music can go beyond language and borders,” she said, emphasizing the universal nature of music.
“APT.” Marks a Turning Point
Rosé released “APT.” as the lead single from her debut studio album, “Rosie,” in 2024. The upbeat pop track, co-written and produced by Bruno Mars, quickly climbed international charts, reaching the top three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also topped the Billboard Global 200, making Rosé the first Korean female solo artist to achieve this remarkable feat, according to The Korea Herald.
The success of “APT.” signaled Rosé’s evolution from group success with BLACKPINK to an independent artist capable of dominating global pop charts on her own. Industry observers have called her nominations a defining moment for K-pop’s international visibility, showcasing the genre’s ability to resonate with diverse audiences.
Industry Reaction and Cultural Significance
The Recording Academy’s recognition of Rosé reflects how K-pop’s influence continues to reshape global pop culture. Her nominations in the general field categories suggest that non-English music is finding a stronger foothold within the Grammys’ most competitive races, challenging the traditional dominance of English-language songs.
Experts note that Rosé’s achievement builds on the growing presence of Asian artists in major Western awards. It follows years of chart success for BLACKPINK and other K-pop acts who have helped bring Korean music to new audiences, paving the way for future artists to break into the mainstream.
Looking Ahead
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards will take place in February at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Regardless of whether Rosé wins, her nominations have already redefined what is possible for international artists in the American music industry.
Rosé told Billboard that the recognition itself felt like a victory. “This is bigger than me,” she said. “If this opens doors for more artists from where I come from, that will be the real win.”
Rosé’s moment is more than a personal triumph. It represents the culmination of a decade-long rise for K-pop and its artists, who continue to challenge industry boundaries. Her nominations prove that global pop no longer has one center. The world is listening, and this time, it is singing along.
