Grammys 2026: Who Will Win for Best Music Film?
What’s in a film? We all know it’s usually an intriguing plot, interesting characters, and a good conflict, which hopefully reaches a resolution. What about a music film? What are the standards for this, especially when it’s up for competition for a Grammy Award? The criteria are artistic achievement, technical proficiency, and overall excellence, according to NARAS, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. A great story helps, too.
The History of the Grammy Award for Best Music Film
Originally called the Grammy Award for Video of the Year in the early 1980s, this award has changed names a few times. Thanks to the emergence of music videos and MTV, the category morphed – and was ultimately fine-tuned – to become the classification that it is today.
Past recipients have included films about Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Jazz artists, and Sting. The first award, presented in 1984, went to the English rock group Duran Duran. The film, entitled “Duran Duran,” beat out strong contenders like fellow Brit rockers, The Rolling Stones. The music films include videos, band history, rare compilations, and commentary from the band members, producers, and often other musicians.
The Nominees for Best Music Film for the 2026 Grammys
Let’s check out the entrants for the golden gramophone this year. May the best music film win!
“Devo”
The film is named for the new wave band, Devo, who combine synth beats, satire, political commentary, and a bit of science fiction. Devo, short for de-evolution, is a band that is well known for their song “Whip It.” A total earworm, this 1980 song put the band on the map.
The film follows the band from their beginnings to the rise of their popularity and mainstream radio airplay. With commentary from the band members, associated musicians, and record producers, the film is a favorite on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Chris Smith, who is known for his work on “Tiger King.”
“Live at the Royal Albert Hall”
Raye is a British singer and songwriter, also known as Rachel Keen. Although she is considered a new artist in the States, she has been around for a little over a decade in Great Britain. This soulful singer, who has amazing vocal control, is on the rise.
“Live at the Royal Albert Hall,” or titled “My 21st Century Symphony,” showcases Raye’s singing skills against the Heritage Orchestra and the Flames Collective, a 30-member gospel choir. Raye captivates in this film, which is a true celebration of orchestral pop, blues with jazz overtones.
“Relentless”
Next up is Grammy music film contender “Relentless.” It’s about Diane Warren. Who is that? While you may have never heard of her, chances are you’ve heard many of her songs. One of the most prolific songwriters of the 20th and 21st centuries, she has penned songs for Cher, Céline Dion, Chicago, Aerosmith, and LeAnn Rimes, just to name a few.
Filmmaker Bess Kargman set about creating a documentary to both explore and pay homage to this legendary yet somehow obscure songwriter. Warren has been nominated for a Grammy 17 times, but has never won. This particular music film is one to watch.
“Music by John Williams”
A composer we’ve all heard of, John Williams has written scores for scores of movies, most famously including the Star Wars franchise, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, and the Lego interpretations of them. With literally hundreds of credits to his name, his incredible music is recognized throughout the world.
“Music by John Williams,” directed by Laurent Bouzereau, covers the composer’s beginnings as a jazz pianist and continues throughout his iconic career. With commentary from Steven Spielberg, Chris Martin, George Lucas, Seth MacFarlane, Alan Silvestri, and many others, this is yet another important film to celebrate the true and storied legend.
“Piece by Piece”
Speaking of Legos, this film tells the story of singer, actor, and producer Pharrell Williams in Lego form. With stunning visuals, creative writing, and (of course) songs, this music film doesn’t disappoint.
Written and directed by Morgan Neville, who also co-stars in the movie, “Piece by Piece” provides an immersive experience. The film also features Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Jay-Z, Pusha T, and Justin Timberlake. Enjoyable, emotional, and engaging, this is a film where viewers will leave singing its tunes.
Who Will Take Home the Award?
We have three films about songwriters or composers, and two about musicians who are performing part of their repertoire. Whether it’s singing sensation Raye, the iconic band Devo, or a creative look at Warren, or one of the Williamses, it’s sure to be a tough competition. We wish all the Grammy music film nominees the best!
Tune In Sunday, Feb. 1
To find out who will get the coveted gold gramophone, tune in this Sunday on CBS. It also streams on Paramount+. The show starts at 8 pm and runs until 11:30 pm EST.
