F1: The Movie Triumphs at the Grammys with Best Country Solo Performance Win
At the 2026 Grammy Awards, Apple TV’s F1: The Movie added another accolade to its impressive collection. The film’s soundtrack, featuring Chris Stapleton’s Bad As I Used To Be, clinched the award for Best Country Solo Performance. This victory marks the 15th award for the film this season, further solidifying its status as a cinematic and musical powerhouse.
A Night of Recognition
The Recording Academy had previously announced four Grammy nominations for Apple TV productions:
– Best Dance Pop Recording: Just Keep Watching by Tate McRae from F1: The Movie
– Best Country Solo Performance: Bad As I Used To Be by Chris Stapleton from F1: The Movie
– Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media: F1: The Album
– Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media: Severance: Season 2 by composer Theodore Shapiro
Among these, Chris Stapleton’s soulful rendition stood out, earning him the prestigious award. Due to prior commitments, Stapleton was unable to attend the ceremony. In his stead, fellow musician Sierra Hull graciously accepted the award, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the music industry.
A Milestone Achievement
This Grammy win is a testament to the film’s multifaceted appeal. F1: The Movie has not only captivated audiences with its gripping narrative but also resonated through its compelling soundtrack. The film’s success is further underscored by its recent nomination for Best Picture at the upcoming Academy Awards, alongside nods for Best Sound, Best Achievement in Visual Effects, and Best Achievement in Film Editing.
Apple TV’s Celebratory Note
Apple TV took to social media to celebrate this achievement, posting:
Congratulations to Chris Stapleton on his GRAMMY win. ‘Bad As I Used To Be’ from #F1TheMovie is this year’s Best Country Solo Performance.
The Journey of F1: The Movie
Released in June 2025, F1: The Movie quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Starring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a former Formula 1 prodigy making a dramatic return to the racing world, the film combines high-octane action with deep emotional storytelling. Its box office performance was stellar, grossing over $500 million globally within a month of its release.
The film’s success isn’t limited to the big screen. It has become the most-watched film in Apple TV history, reflecting its widespread popularity among streaming audiences. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, considering the competitive landscape of digital streaming platforms.
Soundtrack’s Role in the Film’s Success
The soundtrack of F1: The Movie has played a pivotal role in its success. Chris Stapleton’s Bad As I Used To Be encapsulates the film’s themes of redemption and resilience. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Stapleton’s emotive delivery have struck a chord with listeners, contributing significantly to the film’s emotional depth.
Other notable tracks include Tate McRae’s Just Keep Watching, which was also nominated for a Grammy. The compilation album, F1: The Album, has been praised for its eclectic mix of genres, mirroring the film’s dynamic narrative.
Looking Ahead
With the Academy Awards on the horizon, anticipation is building around F1: The Movie. Its multiple nominations position it as a strong contender in several categories. The film’s blend of compelling storytelling, stellar performances, and a powerful soundtrack has set a new benchmark in cinematic excellence.
For those who haven’t experienced the film yet, F1: The Movie is available for streaming on Apple TV. Subscribers can delve into this cinematic masterpiece and witness firsthand the elements that have garnered it critical acclaim and numerous awards.
