The Song of the Year category for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards is packed with a diverse mix of hits, from chart-topping pop collaborations to smooth R&B ballads that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Choosing a clear frontrunner in such a competitive field is no easy feat. Among the contenders are Lady Gaga and ROSÉ, alongside Bruno Mars, with their lively anthems “Abracadabra” and “APT”, both bringing infectious energy. Sabrina Carpenter takes aim at emotionally distant men with “Manchild”, while Billie Eilish delves into the complexities of tangled relationships with “WILDFLOWER”.
The rap scene is well-represented by Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther”, a smoky, soulful ballad of love, while Bad Bunny’s “DtMF” adds an emotional depth to his signature Latin rap style. Doechii rounds out the nominees with “Anxiety”, a 2023 track that gained unexpected popularity through its viral resurgence.
However, the dark horse of the competition might just be “Golden” by EJAE and Mark Sonnenblick, a track from the K-pop Demon Hunters soundtrack. Originally created for an animated series, “Golden” has evolved into a global phenomenon, sweeping the charts and turning casual listeners into fervent K-pop fans. The track’s soaring vocals and anthemic structure have crossed language and genre boundaries, leaving a lasting impression on listeners worldwide.
EJAE, a Seoul-born songwriter known for penning hits for K-pop groups such as Red Velvet, Aespa, TWICE, and Le Sserafim, has stepped into the spotlight with “Golden”, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Collaborating with American composer Mark Sonnenblick, the song combines EJAE’s pop sensibility with Sonnenblick’s cinematic, narrative-driven melodies, creating a track that resonates on a deeply emotional level.
Sonnenblick, renowned for his work in musical theatre and film, brought a unique storytelling element to the song, fusing his expertise with EJAE’s dynamic pop style. For K-pop artists and fans alike, “Golden” is a landmark moment, affirming EJAE and Sonnenblick’s influence not only within the K-pop industry but across the global pop music landscape.
The K-pop Demon Hunters soundtrack, which also competes for the Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media, is in a competitive field that includes F1: The Album, Sinners, and Wicked. Yet, “Golden” stands out as the defining song of the year, solidifying its place as a serious contender in the Song of the Year race. This nomination marks a pivotal moment for EJAE, who has long worked behind the scenes, but is now at the forefront of the global music stage.