Jay-Z used his Grammys speech to ask why Beyoncé has never won Album of the Year

Jay-Z was among the winners at the 2024 Grammy Awards, receiving the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award. During his speech, Jay-Z called out the Recording Academy for failing to give Beyoncé, Album of the Year despite her being nominated for the prestigious award six times, including for her 2022 album Renaissance.

“I don’t want to embarrass this young lady, but she has more Grammys than everyone and never won Album of the Year,” Jay-Z said in reference to his wife, who was watching from the audience. "So even by your own metrics, that doesn’t work. Think about that. The most Grammys; never won Album of the Year. That doesn’t work." He added, “We want you to get it right — at least get it close to right.”

Beyoncé is, by the numbers, the most succesful artist in Grammys history. She has received 88 nominations in her career, winning 33 of them. However, Album of the Year has, to this point, eluded her. Adele issued an on stage apology to her in 2017 when her album 25 beat Lemonade to the top prize.

Jay-Z, who admitted he was feeling nervous as he was joined by daughter Blue Ivy during his time on stage, also hinted at more foundational issues with awards ceremonies like the Grammys. It’s music and it’s opinion based,” he said. "Some of you may get robbed," adding "Some of you don’t belong in the category." Watch his full speech below.