Alessia Cara Responds to Backlash Surrounding Her Grammys Win

This past Sunday, Alessia Cara beat out Khalid, Lil Uzi Vert, Julia Michaels, and SZA — taking home the Grammy for Best New Artist. Following her win, viewers were quick to criticize her victory claiming she had already made it in the industry back in 2015 with her hit song, ‘Here.’

Following the backlash, Alessia released a statement on her Instagram, which reads in part —

to address the apparent backlash regarding winning something I had no control over: I didn’t log onto grammy.com and submit myself. that’s not how it works. I didn’t ask to be submitted either because there are other artists that deserve the acknowledgment. but I was nominated and won and I am not going to be upset about something I’ve wanted since I was kid, not to mention have worked really hard for.

Alessia’s full statement can be read below.

Following her response, many were quick to show their support via social media. On Twitter, user Rachel Wood explained why Alessia was still eligible, and therefore considered for Best New Artist. “The definition of a newcomer at the Grammys is an artist who has not had a prior nomination. Which @alessiacara hasn’t. Having toured with her, she & her team not only work incredibly hard but are welcoming, inclusive & kind. Oh & she is talented AF. Just let her enjoy her moment.”

As someone who was (personally) rooting for SZA, I can assure you that Alessia Cara winning this award is completely okay. Like every other artist nominated, she too worked hard to receive this recognition and should be able to enjoy it.

What do you think of the backlash? Are you over Grammys talk in general? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter at @WhatsTrending.