The Critics Choice Awards 2026 have unveiled this year’s Best Song nominees, highlighting six standout tracks that have shaped some of the most acclaimed film soundtracks of the past year. The category recognizes music that elevates storytelling, expands cinematic emotion, and defines a film’s artistic identity. Hosted once again by Chelsea Handler, the ceremony will air live on January 4 from Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar across E! and USA, offering one of the first major award moments of 2026.
Ed Sheeran leads the lineup with “Drive,” an electrifying, guitar-heavy anthem from F1, Apple’s high-profile racing thriller. Co-written with John Mayer and Blake Slatkin, and powered by Dave Grohl’s drumming, the single delivers the intensity and ambition essential to the film’s world.
HUNTRX make their presence known with “Golden,” a breakout track from Netflix’s animated hit KPop Demon Hunters. Performed by Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI, the song blends emotional lyricism with a sleek, synth-driven production. Its global chart impact and Grammy nominations have made it a defining moment for the fictional trio and a milestone for K-pop storytelling on screen.
Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Göransson earn a nomination for “I Lied to You,” the emotional anchor of Ryan Coogler’s vampire blues drama Sinners. The track, performed by Miles Caton, mixes Delta blues, gospel, and orchestral elements to create one of the year’s most haunting soundtrack entries.
Daniel Blumberg’s “Clothed by the Sun,” from The Testament of Ann Lee, stands out for its spiritual and historical depth. Sung alongside Amanda Seyfried, the piece reimagines Shaker hymns to capture the film’s blend of devotion, conflict, and transcendence.
Netflix secures another spot with “Train Dreams,” a reflective ballad by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner for Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s novella.
Rounding out the category is Stephen Schwartz’s “The Girl in the Bubble,” performed by Ariana Grande for Wicked: For Good. The piece serves as Glinda’s Act 2 turning point and introduces new emotional depth to the long-running franchise.
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