BTS has set its sights on even more ambitious milestones after an unforgettable night at the 52nd American Music Awards on May 26, 2026, where the group swept all three of its nominated categories. The global K-pop sensation is now reportedly focused on achieving one of the final frontiers for artists in their genre: securing a Grammy Award. This pursuit represents a major step in BTS’s ongoing journey to solidify their global music legacy.
According to Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Derrick Milano, who collaborated with high-profile artists including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and Megan Thee Stallion, BTS has a very real opportunity to make history at the Grammys. Milano, who contributed to six tracks on BTS’s latest album, Arirang, shared his optimism during an interview with The Korea Herald. “I completely believe they can win,” he stated, emphasizing both the musical and commercial strengths of the album.
The six songs Milano helped create include Hooligan, Aliens, Normal, Merry Go Round, Swim, and 2.0. These tracks showcase BTS’s versatility, blending intricate production with lyrical depth, and have collectively contributed to the album’s significant impact on the global music market. Milano praised Arirang for its cohesion and carefully crafted structure, noting that it possesses the kind of professionalism and innovation that could place it squarely in Grammy contention. “The professional metrics are at record-breaking levels, and the music itself is explosive,” he explained. “It’s an album with strong structure and cohesion from beginning to end. From a professional perspective, this is absolutely a Grammy-level project.”
Among these tracks, Swim has emerged as a standout, recently topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Milano highlighted that its universal message resonates beyond BTS’s dedicated fanbase, allowing the song to connect with a broader, global audience. This ability to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries is precisely what makes BTS a formidable presence on the international music scene.
Beyond the Grammy conversation, Milano discussed the group’s highly anticipated performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 final halftime show, set to take place in the United States this July. Reports suggest BTS will share the stage with global music icons Madonna and Shakira, a pairing that promises a dynamic and memorable show. Milano singled out Hooligan as a likely centerpiece for the performance, citing its energetic choreography and ability to generate a stadium-filling atmosphere. He also mentioned Body to Body and Swim as potential additions to the setlist, emphasizing the strategic selection of songs to maximize impact.
Surprisingly, Milano’s personal favorite choice for the halftime performance is Normal. He described it as a track with a melody capable of uniting tens of thousands of people, suggesting that it could transform an entire stadium into a sea of lights, creating a visually and emotionally powerful moment. This performance would not only entertain but also encapsulate BTS’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global superstardom.
The significance of performing at a World Cup final extends beyond music. Milano explained that it would serve as a symbolic milestone, representing BTS’s decades-long ascent and their ability to resonate with fans across the globe. “It would become a moment that summarizes their entire journey — from difficult beginnings to global superstardom,” he remarked. “Performing at a World Cup final halftime show would redefine what ‘normal’ means for them.”
As BTS continues its expansive Arirang world tour, fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating both the Grammy Awards and the World Cup halftime show. The group’s trajectory reflects not only their musical achievements but also their influence as cultural ambassadors for K-pop and contemporary pop music. Each new milestone further cements their position as one of the most influential music acts in the world, capable of bridging genres, languages, and audiences.
With their combination of skill, innovation, and global appeal, BTS is positioned to achieve unprecedented success in 2026. Their AMA victories have set a high bar, but the potential Grammy win and World Cup performance could mark the most significant chapters yet in the story of one of the most transformative musical acts of this generation. Through these upcoming events, BTS is not just performing—they are redefining what it means to be a global music phenomenon, demonstrating the power of artistry to transcend borders and unite audiences worldwide.
