The 2026 Grammy Awards commenced with a groundbreaking achievement for K-Pop, as the fictional trio Huntr/x made history by securing the award for Best Song for Visual Media with their infectious track “Golden,” featured in the Netflix sensation K-Pop Demon Hunters. This historic win marks the first time a K-Pop song has triumphed at the Grammys, signalling a significant shift in the recognition of Korean pop music on a global scale.
A New Era for K-Pop
“Golden,” performed by the vibrant and dynamic band Huntr/x, not only captured the hearts of audiences but also became a cultural phenomenon, amassing over 480 million views since its release last June. The film, K-Pop Demon Hunters, swiftly ascended to become Netflix’s most-watched movie ever, showcasing the irresistible allure of its soundtrack, which revitalised charts reminiscent of Disney’s Encanto in 2022.
The success of “Golden” at the Grammys underlines the increasing influence of K-Pop in mainstream music, as the genre continues to break boundaries and garner respect within the industry. The song has also been nominated for Song of the Year, further solidifying its impact.
Celebrating Diverse Talents
In addition to the K-Pop triumph, the night saw rapper Doechii claiming the award for Best Video for her haunting single “Anxiety,” which explores the struggles of mental health through a vivid, nightmarish narrative. The film categories were dominated by the Southern horror film Sinners, which won both Best Soundtrack and Best Score, further illustrating the diverse range of talent celebrated at this year’s ceremony.
Other notable early winners included British star Yungblud, who took home the award for Best Rock Performance for his stirring rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Changes,” recorded during Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell concert. An emotional moment ensued as Yungblud dedicated his win to Osbourne, asserting, “The music was enough, and I can safely say, on behalf of all of us, that still stands now and it will do forever.”
British Artists Shine
The night also shone a spotlight on British artists, with FKA Twigs making history as the first UK winner of the evening, securing the award for Best Dance/Electronic Album for her innovative effort, Eusexua. Twigs’ heartfelt acceptance speech resonated with many, as she encouraged aspiring artists to remain true to their vision. “Follow your vision. Because that’s what’s going to make the world fall in love with your art,” she proclaimed, a nod to her journey in the competitive music landscape.
The event, which unfolded at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, featured a plethora of performances, setting the stage for a night filled with surprises. As the main Grammy ceremony prepares to kick off later, the excitement in the air is palpable, with all eyes on the artists poised to take home the evening’s most coveted accolades.
Why it Matters
The historic win for K-Pop at the Grammys is not merely a moment of celebration for a genre; it represents a broader cultural shift within the music industry. As the boundaries between genres continue to blur, the recognition of K-Pop underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts. This victory not only elevates the genre but also highlights the growing acceptance of international music in mainstream culture. As K-Pop continues to rise in prominence, it paves the way for future artists from various backgrounds, fostering a richer, more inclusive musical landscape that resonates with audiences worldwide.
