West: 'Influential albums don't win Grammys'

Kanye West has criticised the Grammy Awards for not honouring artists who best represent current musical trends.

Speaking to Access Hollywood, the 'Power' rapper disputed that the musicians who have been awarded with the 'Album of the Year' trophy in recent times have been worthy of the tribute.

"Where's our instant replay clock? Why are the last four 'Albums of the Year': Taylor Swift, Dixie Chicks, Ray Charles and Herbie Hancock? Like, you know, with all due respect… that's inaccurate," he said.

The star continued: "It’s like 'SexyBack' - you know what I’m saying? Like [Justin Timberlake’s] FutureSex/LoveSounds, Gnarls Barkley. How about Usher - Confessions? How about albums that sold 10 million?"

West further remarked that it is important for Grammy voters to choose their winners wisely because the awards prove to be an inspiration to young artists.

He explained: "I pinpoint the Grammys and the VMAs because they have to take responsibility, because they mean something to us. Little kids, 6 years [old], that are singing in front of the mirror.

"They're also thinking about their Grammy speech; they're thinking about when there will be a VMA so these people, whoever run them… they have to take some responsibility to say what really happened in culture this year because we're marking it down."

West previously announced that he will no longer attend awards shows.