The Actual Reason For The Disqualification Of Moliy’s ‘Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix’ From The Grammy Awards

Ghanaian-American singer Moliy’s global hit, “Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix,” has been disqualified from the Grammy Awards’ Best Global Music Performance and Best African Music Performance categories, leading to disappointment among fans and industry professionals.

The Recording Academy confirmed that the disqualification resulted from the song being submitted as a “remix,” which is ineligible for these specific categories according to established rules.

In a statement to Billboard, the Academy acknowledged the song’s cultural and commercial significance but emphasized that the eligibility guidelines do not permit remixes in these categories. They stated, “We all acknowledge it is a massive song with significant cultural impact. Unfortunately, but quite simply, it was submitted as a remix, and as per our longstanding and published rules, remixes are just not eligible in these categories. Regardless, our goal is always to honor, respect and fairly represent creators and the music they make — so we will keep working to improve our entry processes and eligibility guidelines.”

Gamma., the record label representing Moliy, led by CEO Larry Jackson, expressed disappointment with the decision. Jackson argued that the ruling favors rigid conventions over artistic merit, noting the remix includes substantial new material. “To be disqualified because we decided to call it a remix instead of ‘Part Two’ in our submission process is an interesting choice,” said Jackson. “This is especially odd, given the fact that 50% of it is a new composition… The answer of ‘That’s just the way we do things, and that’s just the rule’ doesn’t feel respectful toward what these artists achieved.”

“Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix,” featuring Jamaican artists Skillibeng and Shenseea alongside Moliy and producer Silent Addy, has performed well on international charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart and charting across the U.S. and Europe.

Jackson’s remarks reflect concerns that traditional Grammy Awards rules may disadvantage non-traditional musical formats and global genres, where remixes and collaborations are often essential to success. The Academy has committed to reviewing its entry processes and eligibility guidelines, indicating that the controversy over Moliy’s disqualification may influence future changes.

🚨 The Recording Academy reveals why Moliy’s “Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix” was snubbed for Grammy Nominations 🤯

The song was considered ineligible for nomination in the “Best Global Music Performance” & “Best African Music Performance” categories because it was “submitted… pic.twitter.com/sFXGSs60F5

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