Cardi B calls out artists who dismiss the Grammys but still submit music

Cardi B is weighing in on the ongoing debate over the relevance of the Grammy Awards.

In a new interview with Billboard, the rapper addressed criticism from artists who publicly dismiss the Grammys while still competing for the awards behind the scenes.

“Everybody always wants to downplay it, but everybody wants one,” Cardi B said. “Every year they downplay the Grammys, but every year they submit their music.”

Her comments come as the Recording Academy continues to face scrutiny over transparency, voting practices, and diversity. In recent years, several high-profile artists have expressed frustration with the institution, questioning whether the Grammys accurately reflect talent and cultural impact.

Despite the criticism, the Grammys remain one of the most recognized awards in the music industry, often influencing career trajectories, streaming numbers, and industry credibility. Cardi B, who won Best Rap Album in 2019 for Invasion of Privacy, has previously spoken about the significance of the honor and the recognition it provides.

The rapper’s remarks highlight the tension between the public image of dismissing awards and the private desire for industry validation. Many artists continue to rely on Grammy recognition to boost their standing, even as conversations about reform and representation within the Recording Academy persist.

The 2025 Grammy Awards are set to take place in February in Los Angeles, where debates about the institution’s value are expected to remain a major talking point.