Say what you will about their relevance for popular music these days, but the fact remains the Grammys are still the world's biggest music awards. So why can't video games get their own nomination?
Currently, the only way an original composition for a video game can win a Grammy is if its nominated alongside other mediums. So, for example, an orchestral piece made for Mass Effect 2 would need to be nominated for "Best Score for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media".
Another category games have been "relegated" to - and one that includes an actual nomination this year - is "Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s)", where again, it has to go up against songs from other mediums.
In an effort to get games a little more recognition, publisher Electronic Arts is asking The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences to add a 110th category to the prestigious awards night: "Best Video Game Score".
"This generalization of 'Other Visual Media' isn't merely an insult to the video game industry, but a blatant dismissal of these composers and their work," says EA'sSteve Schnur.
"So many Hollywood composers — who are no strangers to Grammys, Emmys and the Oscars — are choosing to create their most exciting work in a clearly defined field that is far more than a ‘visual media.' And all of them will agree that the current situation must be rectified immediately."
Man has a point. I actually listen to a lot of soundtracks (from movies, games and TV), as they make great work music when you're at a computer all day, and those from recent games like Red Dead Redemption are right up there with the best of them.
Electronic Arts, Composers Push for 'Best Video Game Score' Grammy Category [THR]