Unpacking the 2026 Oscar Song Nominees: A Battle of Ballads and Blockbusters
Diane Warren's Enduring Pursuit of Oscar Gold with "Dear Me"
Veteran songwriter Diane Warren, renowned for her numerous nominations but elusive Oscar win, is once again a contender with her song "Dear Me," performed by Kesha. Featured in the documentary "Diane Warren: Relentless," this nomination marks her 17th attempt. Despite her past honorary award from the Academy, the quest for a competitive Oscar continues, underscoring her persistent dedication to cinematic music.
"Golden": The Unstoppable Force from "KPop Demon Hunters"
The formidable challenger in this year's Best Original Song race is "Golden" from "KPop Demon Hunters." This track, performed by the fictional group Huntrix, dominated the charts in 2025, topping Billboard's Hot 100 for 18 weeks and achieving double platinum certification. Its immense popularity, coupled with the film's record-breaking streaming success, positions "Golden" as a strong favorite to win, potentially overshadowing other nominees.
Raphael Saadiq's "I Lied to You" from the Acclaimed Film "Sinners"
Raphael Saadiq, alongside Ludwig Göransson, contributes "I Lied to You" from Ryan Coogler's vampire hit, "Sinners." This song adds a unique flavor to the nominations, characterized by its bluesy undertones and powerful narrative. Its memorable performance within the film and subsequent live renditions have solidified its place as a noteworthy contender in the Oscar lineup.
"Sweet Dreams of Joy": The Unexpected Nomination from "Viva Verdi!"
Nicholas Pike's "Sweet Dreams of Joy," from the documentary "Viva Verdi!," emerges as a surprising dark horse. Despite its limited public exposure prior to the nominations, the song's profound inspiration drawn from Milan's Casa Verdi, a retirement home for classical artists, has resonated with the Academy. Its inclusion highlights the diverse pathways to Oscar recognition, celebrating art that moves beyond mainstream visibility.
Nick Cave's Lyrical Depth in "Train Dreams"
Singer-songwriter Nick Cave brings his distinctive lyrical prowess to the fore with "Train Dreams," co-written with Bryce Dessner for the film adaptation of Denis Johnson's novel. Cave, a known admirer of the source material, infuses the song with narrative richness, reflecting the film's themes over a minimalistic musical arrangement. His ability to translate literary depth into song offers a powerful artistic statement within the nominations.