Japanese British singer Rina Sawayama takes on award shows with calls for inclusivity

Rina Sawayama’s debut album, “Sawayama,” hit the scene with a bang. Songs range from nu metal to hyperpop to ballads. It quickly became a hit with critics, fired up an international fan base, and even got a shoutout from Elton John. But when award season came around, the 30-year-old artist wasn’t nominated for two of the top UK awards because she was deemed not British enough to be eligible. The World’s Bianca Hillier reports.

Invest in independent global news

The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!