Giant-Slayers Prevail at 2026 Primetime Emmys in Music Categories

The 2026 Primetime Emmys brought a night full of music triumphs and surprises, but it was Gavin Brivik and Andrew Bird who emerged as the true victors. Performing a feat many thought impossible, they beat out music royalty, including the one and only Lady Gaga, for outstanding original music and lyrics.

A Night of Surprising Wins

Held at the Peacock Theater at L.A. Live on September 6, the ceremony saw Brivik and Bird snag the award for their haunting ballad, "Need Someone," crafted for the acclaimed drama series The Pitt. The competition was fierce: Gaga, nominated for "The Dead Dance," had her hopes tied to a collaboration with Andrew Watt and Cirkut, while Trey Parker of South Park fame was also in the running with his track "Christian Woman." It’s a testament to the depth of creativity in this year’s nominations that even a powerhouse like Gaga faced a mighty challenge.

While Gaga was left wishing for another chance, Widow's Boy celebrated two major wins. David Fleming walked away with the Emmy for outstanding music composition for a series (original dramatic score) on Apple TV's hit show, solidifying his status as a creative force with his second Primetime win. Meanwhile, Toko Nagata joined the ranks of winners for her outstanding music supervision, marking her very first Emmy triumph.

The Trailblazers Share the Spotlight

In a remarkable showing, Dave Porter also snagged two Emmys for his work on Pluribus, earning awards for outstanding original main title theme music and outstanding sound mixing. Just like Gaga, it’s a moment of validation for Porter, making this his inaugural embrace of the Emmy spotlight.

As the excitement continued to soar, Sean Callery and Sara Barone celebrated their win for outstanding music composition for a limited or anthology series. Their work on The Beast in Me has set a new standard, particularly as Callery marks his fifth Emmy win after bringing home awards for shows like 24 and Jessica Jones. Barone, in her own right, finally gets to bask in the limelight, claiming her first Emmy in style.

Special Recognitions and Music Direction Wins

Earlier in the festivities, on September 5, Miguel Gandelman was celebrated for his outstanding music direction for The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Starring Bad Bunny. This latest achievement makes Gandelman the third person to win this category for a Super Bowl Halftime Show. Other previous winners include the likes of Adam Blackstone and Kendrick Lamar.

Tyler Strickland also had a moment to shine, scooping up the Emmy for music composition in a documentary/nonfiction series for John Candy: I Like Me, showcasing the depth and versatility within music composition for all types of programs.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Music at the Emmys

These awards serve as more than just trophies; they spotlight the endless creativity that flows through the music world. Songs featured in television are increasingly taking center stage, with artists pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to craft a soundtrack for our lives. As we look to the future, it's clear the intersection of music and television will only grow stronger.

For those who thrive on musical excellence and star power, to see who claims victory next year is but a heartbeat away. Could we see Gaga reclaim her position among the giants? Or will new artists continue to rise? The music scene remains electric with potential.

For more on the latest in music, check out Justin Bieber's surprise album drop and SZA's candid thoughts on AI in music.

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