BTS is reportedly aiming for even bigger heights after sweeping all three nominated categories at the 2026 American Music Awards.
Following their historic win at the 52nd American Music Awards on May 26, the global supergroup is now said to be fully focused on achieving what many consider the final frontier for K-pop idols: winning a Grammy Award.
According to Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Derrick Milano, BTS has a real chance to make history.
“I firmly believe they can win” Milano declared this in an interview with The Korea Herald.
Milano – known for working with artists including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion – co-wrote six songs from BTS’ latest album, Arirang.
Tracks include Hooligan, Aliens, Normal, Merry Go Round, Swim and 2.0.
Although BTS has already become the first K-pop group ever to win “Artist of the Year” at the AMAs in 2021, a Grammy trophy has remained one of the group’s biggest ambitions.
Milano described Arirang as a Grammy-worthy album for both its musical quality and commercial performance.
“The professional parameters are at record levels and the music itself is explosive,” he explained. “It’s an album with a strong structure and cohesion from start to finish. From a professional standpoint, this is absolutely a Grammy-level project.”
Of the songs he helped create, Milano particularly highlighted Swim — BTS’ recent Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper — as one of the album’s strongest tracks.
According to the producer, the song’s universal message allowed it to reach beyond BTS’ dedicated fanbase and connect with mainstream global listeners.
In addition to the Grammy conversation, Milano also discussed BTS’ highly anticipated appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup halftime show in the United States this July.
The group will reportedly perform alongside global music icons Madonna and Shakira.
Milano predicted that Hooligan could become BTS’s “strategic weapon” for the performance thanks to its high-energy choreography and explosive stadium atmosphere. He also mentioned Body to Body and Swim as strong candidates for the lineup.
However, his personal favorite choice was unexpectedly Normal.
“If I had full control, I would choose ‘Normal'” Milan revealed. “That song has a melody capable of connecting tens of thousands of people. It could turn an entire stadium into a sea of telephone lights.”
The producer also detailed the emotional symbolism behind BTS’ potential performance at one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
“It would become a moment that sums up their entire journey, from rocky beginnings to global stardom,” he said. “Performing at the World Cup final halftime show would redefine what ‘normal’ means for them.”
As BTS continues their massive Arirang global tour, anticipation for the Grammy Awards and 2026 FIFA World Cup spectacle continues to grow.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
