THE CULT’s Ian Astbury Slams the Grammys for Ignoring Rock Music: “They’re Making a Big Mistake”

Rock music has been sidelined at the Grammys for years, with streaming numbers, industry shifts, and mainstream trends pushing it further from the spotlight. But THE CULT frontman Ian Astbury isn’t staying silent. In a new interview with São Paulo’s 89 FM A Rádio Rock, Astbury called out the Recording Academy for its lack of support for rock artists, accusing it of failing to recognize the genre’s ongoing evolution and relevance.

Ian Astbury on the Grammys: “Ask the Fans, Not the Industry”

Astbury made it clear that THE CULT has never received a Grammy, but he questions whether that even matters.

“Well, first of all, THE CULT has never been honored by the Grammys. So it’s an institution… like the church or science or whatever. And they wanna control the cultural narrative for themselves. So they have 15,000 experts on music.

“There are millions and billions of music fans around the world,” he continued. “I’d say ask them. Ask the people who actually buy music, who come to the concerts, who buy the tickets, who work hard.”

For Astbury, recognition from real fans means far more than an industry award. He argues that institutions like the Grammys often serve their own interests rather than celebrating the true diversity of rock music.

Are the Grammys Killing Rock Music?

Astbury didn’t hold back when addressing the decline of rock’s presence at the Grammys.

“I mean, I love that the Grammys is trying to diversify, but with rock music, they are making a big mistake,” he said. “And I feel that they are destroying the culture… They’re like a museum. But we are living, breathing, and there’s rock musicians who are 15 to 65, 75. THE [ROLLING] STONES are still playing music.”

Astbury highlighted the longevity and evolution of rock, pointing to legendary acts like The Rolling Stones, who are still performing and proving that rock is far from dead. He emphasized that rock music is more diverse than ever, with countless subgenres and fresh talent emerging worldwide—yet the Grammys fail to acknowledge this.

THE CULT: A Band That Defined Rock’s Evolution

Few bands have pushed musical boundaries like THE CULT. Emerging from the UK post-punk scene, the band blended hard rock, psychedelia, and alternative sounds to create a unique identity.

Billy Duffy’s groundbreaking guitar work and Astbury’s visionary creativity made THE CULT pioneers of post-modern and hard rock, influencing generations of musicians.

From Duffy’s roots in the Manchester underground to Astbury’s “Gathering of the Tribes” festival—a movement that helped shape alternative music culture—THE CULT’s impact on modern rock is undeniable.

New Music from THE CULT: “Under The Midnight Sun”

THE CULT’s latest album, “Under The Midnight Sun” (2022), proves the band’s relevance in today’s rock scene. Released via Black Hill Records, the LP was produced by Tom Dalgety (known for his work with PIXIES, GHOST, and ROYAL BLOOD). It marks the first time since 1985’s “Love” that THE CULT worked with a British producer.

Why THE CULT Remains One of Rock’s Most Important Bands

Despite never receiving a Grammy, THE CULT has built a legendary career by staying true to their sound and refusing to conform. Their ability to evolve while maintaining their raw, rebellious energy has made them one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

With a lineup featuring John Tempesta (formerly of WHITE ZOMBIE, EXODUS, and TESTAMENT), THE CULT continues to tour and release new music, proving that rock is still alive and kicking—even if the Grammys refuse to acknowledge it.

Final Thoughts: Should the Grammys Do More for Rock?

Ian Astbury’s criticism raises a serious question: Why does the Grammys continue to overlook rock music? While genres like hip-hop, pop, and R&B dominate mainstream recognition, rock is still thriving among dedicated fans and musicians.

Should the Recording Academy start giving rock the respect it deserves? Or has the Grammy Awards lost touch with real music fans?