DJ Khaled Chimes in after Diddy Called out Grammys' Lack of Diversity

DJ Khaled asked for everyone to "do better" and dedicated his award to all hip hop artists in light of the controversy surrounding the Recording Academy and its lack of diversity.

In the heels of Diddy slamming the Grammys for its lack of diversity, DJ Khaled echoed his sentiments after winning at the recently concluded Grammy Awards.

Khaled expressed support for Diddy challenged the Recording Academy to create an “even playing field’ for hip-hop artists. Khaled, who won alongside the late Nipsey Hussle and John Legend for Best Rap/Sung Performance for their “Higher” collaboration said, “We just want ours too.”

Diddy’s message was in response to the recent controversy involving former Recording Academy CEO Deborah Dugan. She was suspended after she made discrimination claims against her former bosses.

THE CLOUD THAT ENVELOPED THE GRAMMYS

The past weekend saw a wave of emotions transcending at the Grammys with the controversy involving its lack of diversity and the sudden death of Kobe Bryant. DJ Khaled addressed both.

During his appearance at the annual awards show, he paid tribute to Kobe and his late friend, Nipsey Hussle in a performance with Legend, YG, and newcomer Roddy Ricch.

A CALL TO "DO BETTER"

After receiving his Grammy award, Khaled faced reporters in the press room and delivered his message echoing that of Diddy’s.

“We always have to do better. Every day we’re supposed to get better and greater, and learn, and grow, and what [Diddy] was saying was, ‘Let’s do better. Let’s put more love out there for everybody.’”

Khaled dedicated his award to hip-hop artists and for the late Hussle. “We just want ours too,” he said, referring to the lack of recognition for hip-hop artists in the Grammys’ major categories.

A CHALLENGE TO CHANGE

A day earlier, Diddy blasted the academy for “killing” the hip hop industry. He delivered his rousing speech as he accepted his Salute to Industry Icons Award during Clive Davis’ annual Pre-Grammy Gala.

"Truth be told, hip-hop has never been respected by the Grammys. Black music has never been respected by the Grammys to the point that it should be,” the multimillion rap mogul said to a crowd of stars which included Jay-Z and Beyonce.

At the end of his speech, he challenged the industry to “get this [expletive] together” in 365 days.

THE DUGAN CONTROVERSY

Diddy’s message was in response to the recent controversy involving former Recording Academy CEO Deborah Dugan. She was suspended after she made discrimination claims against her former bosses.

She alleged that the academy was running a “boys’ club” and was biased against women and people of color. She also suggested rigging was involved in the nomination process.

The academy has since responded with a brief statement expressing regret over the allegations that placed a cloud over the Grammy Awards show. It assured that it was working to resolve matters quickly. Soon after, the Academy announced plans to hire a Diversity & Inclusion Officer within three months to address the issue.