The 2026 Grammy nominations have sparked debate across the music industry — and one question stands out: Why is “Golden” from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters nominated for Song of the Year but not Record of the Year?
The track, performed by the animated K-pop group HUNTR/X (featuring real-life artists EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI), became a global streaming hit in 2025. Despite its huge digital success and chart dominance, the Recording Academy’s decision has left fans and analysts questioning the nomination logic.
During this week’s Billboard Pop Shop Podcast, hosts Katie Atkinson and Keith Caulfield dissected the 2026 Grammy list, focusing on the Big Four categories: Album, Record, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist.
“Golden” received a nod in Song of the Year—an award that recognizes songwriting—but was notably absent from Record of the Year, which honors the recording and production of a track. The song’s sleek electronic layers and powerful vocal performances seemed tailor-made for both honors, leading to widespread confusion among pop fans and industry experts alike.
Billboard analysts noted that the Recording Academy often distinguishes between songwriting and recording impact. “It’s not unusual for a song to appear in one category and not the other,” explained Keith Caulfield. “Golden may have impressed with its writing and emotional depth more than its production innovation.”
Pop culture insiders also speculated that the Academy’s voting committees may have favored diversity in nominations, allowing other major hits to enter the Record of the Year race.
The nomination cements KPop Demon Hunters as more than just an animated musical film—it’s now a legitimate pop culture force. The success of “Golden” has boosted Netflix’s soundtrack division and elevated Asian female artists in global pop visibility.
If “Golden” wins Song of the Year, it could mark a milestone for K-pop representation in Western award shows, following the trail blazed by BTS and BLACKPINK.
The 2026 Grammys will take place in February in Los Angeles. KPop Demon Hunters’ production team and the HUNTR/X trio are expected to attend the ceremony, possibly performing “Golden” live.
Until then, the Billboard Pop Shop Podcast will continue unpacking the nominations and chart dynamics, including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” re-entering the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 for the first time in four decades.
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