Kate Hudson & Hugh Jackman Bring Neil Diamond Hit ‘Cherry, Cherry’ to Life for Song Sung Blue Soundtrack

Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman are giving new charm and energy to Neil Diamond’s classic “Cherry, Cherry,” offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the unexpected collaboration for the upcoming feature film Song Sung Blue. The official soundtrack released Friday, Dec. 19, and PEOPLE shared an exclusive clip of the actors recording the track together — blending nostalgia, character work, and pure studio joy.

A Studio Session Filled With Fun

In the video, Hudson, 46, and Jackman, 57, step into the vocal booth as both themselves and their onscreen characters Claire and Mike Sardina. At one moment, Hudson asks Jackman to redo the “baby loves me” lyric. He agrees without hesitation, and the two exchange playful glances as they take the song from rehearsal mode to polished performance. When the take wraps, they smile, laugh, and celebrate with a high-five — reinforcing the camaraderie and chemistry central to the film’s emotional tone.

The Soundtrack & Creative Process

The Song Sung Blue soundtrack features 16 tracks sung by cast members and shaped under executive producer Scott Bomer, who also composed the film’s score. Bomer revealed “Cherry, Cherry” was the first track adapted for the movie’s soundtrack version and required additional instrumentation to expand its emotional punch beyond the performance heard in the film.

Working alongside director Craig Brewer, drummer Terence F. Clark, and mix engineer Mike Piersante, Bomer said the team layered live instruments at the historic Sam Phillips Recording studio in Memphis to create a fuller sound. The cast vocals aim to capture authenticity rather than polish, echoing the themes of resilience and creative reinvention running through the film.

Based on a True Story

Song Sung Blue, directed and written by Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow), adapts the 2008 documentary of the same name. The film tells the story of a Milwaukee couple who formed a Neil Diamond tribute band after falling on hard times, rekindling love and ambition through performance.

The Christmas Day theatrical release positions the film as a feel-good, music-driven holiday offering.

Cast Reflections on Collaboration

Hudson praised Jackman’s instinct for connection on set, saying his desire to make people feel seen creates a positive working environment. Jackman returned the admiration, describing Hudson’s instinctive yet prepared approach as a lesson in confidence and trust on camera — even after nearly 50 films.

As anticipation builds, the soundtrack clip appears to have set expectations high for both the film and the unlikely onscreen duo’s musical chemistry.