The real reason Moliy's ‘Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix’ was disqualified from Grammy

Disqualified From Grammy Consideration, Sparking Industry Debate

Ghanaian-American singer Moliy’s global hit, Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix), has been disqualified from the Grammy Awards consideration in both the Best Global Music Performance and Best African Music Performance categories a decision that has left fans and industry stakeholders deeply disappointed.

The Recording Academy confirmed that the disqualification stemmed from the song’s submission as a “remix,” a format that is not eligible under the rules governing these specific categories.

Recording Academy Explains the Ruling

In a statement to Billboard, the Academy acknowledged the song’s widespread cultural and commercial impact but emphasized that its eligibility rules are strict and leave no room for remixes:

“We all acknowledge it is a massive song with significant cultural impact. Unfortunately, but quite simply, it was submitted as a remix, and as per our longstanding and published rules, remixes are just not eligible in these categories. Regardless, our goal is always to honor, respect and fairly represent creators and the music they make so we will keep working to improve our entry processes and eligibility guidelines.”

Record Label Gamma. Calls the Decision “Deeply Disappointing”

Gamma., the label behind Moliy and led by CEO Larry Jackson, expressed strong frustration over the Academy’s ruling. Jackson argued that the decision favors rigid technicalities over artistic creativity, noting that the remix contains substantial new elements.

“To be disqualified because we decided to call it a remix instead of ‘Part Two’ in our submission process is an interesting choice,” Jackson said. “This is especially odd, given the fact that 50% of it is a new composition… The answer of ‘That’s just the way we do things, and that’s just the rule’ doesn’t feel respectful toward what these artists achieved.”

A Global Hit With Major Commercial Success

Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix) features Jamaican stars Skillibeng and Shenseea, alongside Moliy and producer Silent Addy. The track has enjoyed massive international success, including:

• No. 1 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart

• Extensive chart presence across the United States and Europe

Its global reach and cross-genre appeal made it a strong contender for Grammy recognition further fueling frustration surrounding the disqualification.

A Debate on Grammy Rules and Global Music Formats

Jackson’s comments highlight a broader concern within the music community: that Grammy rules may unintentionally disadvantage artists working in non-traditional formats, where remixes, collaborations, and genre-blending are essential to global appeal.

In response, the Recording Academy has pledged to review its entry processes and eligibility guidelines, suggesting that the controversy surrounding Moliy’s disqualification may help shape future reforms.