A handful of prominent artists will be sitting out this year’s edition of the GRAMMYs for racial representation in awarding categories amongst other reasons.

Frank Ocean, a two-time GRAMMY winner, already made a statement earlier last year, by refusing to submit both his critically acclaimed albums Blonde and Endless for Grammy consideration. Speaking to New York Times about the decision, Frank said “That institution certainly has nostalgic importance,” he said. “It just doesn’t seem to be representing very well for people who come from where I come from, and hold down what I hold down.” He noted that since he was born, just a few black artists have won album of the year, including Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock and Ray Charles.

Kanye West has previously come out to say he will not be attending the GRAMMYs, and more recently he has been joined by his management-mate Justin Bieber. Biebervelli, whose label obligations did not allow omission from consideration, is nominated for four categorie. However the singer has revealed he will not attend the awards ceremony due to past injustices, and the disconnect between the board and the youth.

Featured Image Credit: Wired