I PREVAIL frontman Eric Vanlerberghe has voiced his frustration over how rock and metal are portrayed at major award shows, calling out the Grammy Awards for continuing to rely on legacy acts like AEROSMITH to represent the genre in 2025.

In a recent interview with Louder Sound, the vocalist discussed his disappointment with how the Grammys continue to overlook younger rock artists despite their growing global success.

Eric Vanlerberghe Reflects on I PREVAIL’s Grammy Experience

Vanlerberghe began by recalling I PREVAIL’s Grammy nominations back in 2020, describing the recognition as both meaningful and revealing.

“That was big. The Grammys is one of those universal languages where everyone in your life could go ‘Oh, I get it now’, and it was an honor to be nominated alongside bands like Tool, Killswitch Engage, and Death Angel,” Vanlerberghe said.

He noted that while the nomination was a proud moment for the band, the experience also shed light on how the event prioritizes mainstream pop acts over rock and metal performers.

“We weren’t part of the actual televised event. It wasn’t the Grammys that you picture on TV. We stayed for the entire awards, and you see the people sat down the front, and you’re kind of on the outside. It’s still amazing, but there are levels to this sort of thing,” he explained.

Calling Out the Grammys for Rock Representation

The I PREVAIL singer then turned his attention to the heart of his frustration — how rock music continues to be represented at the Grammys by decades-old acts rather than current artists leading the genre’s resurgence.

“But I’m waiting for the change. You know, Billie Eilish performed, Tyler, the Creator performed, Lil Nas X performed, Demi Lovato performed, all of the artists at the top of their game. Then, when they did the rock artist, it was Aerosmith and Run DMC! That was the greatest way to represent rock in 2025?! You’ve got all these new, young artists selling out arenas in rock and metal… but Aerosmith? I hope that will change soon,” he stated.

Vanlerberghe’s remarks highlight an ongoing frustration shared by many in the rock and metal community — that mainstream institutions often fail to recognize the evolving landscape of heavy music.

The Changing Face of Rock and Metal

Over the last decade, bands like I PREVAIL, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox, and Bad Omens have helped usher in a new era of metalcore and alternative metal that resonates with younger audiences. Yet, award shows such as the Grammys often continue to focus on legacy acts from previous generations.

For many modern artists, this isn’t about disrespecting rock legends like AEROSMITH — it’s about acknowledging that the genre has evolved. The new generation of musicians feels ready to take up the mantle, but recognition from traditional institutions remains slow to come.

I PREVAIL’s Rise and the New Generation’s Demands

I PREVAIL’s journey from viral success to Grammy nominations represents a broader shift within rock music. The Michigan-based band built its following through raw emotion, online engagement, and a powerful mix of metal and melody — all without mainstream radio support.

Vanlerberghe’s comments underline how younger acts are pushing for representation that reflects the diversity and innovation within modern rock. His hope is that the Grammys — and other industry bodies — will begin to celebrate not just the pioneers, but also the innovators shaping the genre’s future.

A Call for Change in Rock’s Narrative

Vanlerberghe’s message resonates across the rock and metal community: it’s time for institutions to evolve. Fans and musicians alike are calling for a shift that celebrates both the legends who built rock’s foundation and the artists redefining its boundaries today.

While AEROSMITH will always remain icons of the genre, many believe the face of rock in 2025 should reflect its current pulse — not just its past.