'KPop Demon Hunters' Theme Song 'Golden' Reaches 1.3 Billion Spotify Streams and 1 Billion YouTube Views

'Golden', the theme song for 'KPop Demon Hunters', is demonstrating influence on par with that of actual K-POP tracks. Since the film’s release in June 2025, 'Golden' has accumulated 1.3 billion streams on Spotify and 1 billion views on YouTube. This outcome illustrates how the fictional band attracts listeners just like real K-POP groups.

'Golden' has also achieved notable success at music awards ceremonies. The film 'KPop Demon Hunters' won the "Best Animated Film" award at the Golden Globe Awards, while its theme song received the "Best Original Song" award. Additionally, the track was nominated in five categories at the Grammy Awards and is currently up for the "Best Original Song" award at the Oscars. 'Golden' has expanded its cultural impact through live performances at Thanksgiving parades and late-night talk shows, as well as the release of its official music video.

EJAE, the musician behind 'Golden', delivered an emotional acceptance speech at the Golden Globe Awards. She explained that her dream of becoming a K-POP idol was dashed, but she met K-POP producers in her mid-20s, which led to her composing 'Golden'. The song was written about breaking up with a former partner, and she stated that the composition process helped her overcome the heartbreak.

EJAE said, "Every melody, every word carries intent and expresses emotions in their purest form." She added that she understood fully the feeling of longing for hope when everything seems hopeless, mentioning that she cried during the demo recording. She further noted, "The most common message I receive from fans is 'Your 'Golden' saved me,' and that is exactly why I create music."

It is reported that the musical inspiration for 'Golden' originated from Drake. Film director Chris Appelhans revealed during a 2025 Reddit AMA that Drake’s 2009 song served as the primary inspiration for 'Golden'. Although the two tracks differ musically, they share many similarities in their overall message.