Ed Sheeran’s ‘Drive’ Fuels Oscar Buzz with All-Star Collaboration
Ed Sheeran’s powerful collaboration, “Drive,” born from teh high-octane world of the F1 film, is gaining significant traction, recently earning a spot on the shortlist for the 2026 Oscars’ best Original Song category . The song,a departure for Sheeran into rock territory,was brought to life with an extraordinary lineup of musical icons: Dave Grohl,john Mayer,and more. A captivating live performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! further amplified the song’s impact and showcased the undeniable chemistry between these celebrated artists.
A Rock Anthem Born from the World of Formula 1
“Drive” wasn’t conceived in a typical songwriting studio.It emerged as a direct response to the energy and atmosphere of the F1 film, a project Sheeran wanted to soundtrack with a genuinely powerful rock song. As Sheeran himself stated, he envisioned a track “you’d wanna turn up to the fullest amount whilst driving” . This desire for a driving, energetic sound led to a unique creative process and the assembling of a dream team of musicians.
The All-Star Lineup: A Meeting of Musical Minds
The live rendition of “Drive” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! was a testament to the collaborative spirit behind the song. Sheeran was joined by Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl on drums, providing the song’s robust and driving rhythm. Rami Jaffee, also of the Foo Fighters, added depth and texture with his keyboard work. Guitar duties were shared between Sheeran himself and the legendary John Mayer, while Blake Slatkin and Pino Palladino rounded out the band on guitar and bass, respectively. Slatkin and Mayer’s contributions extended beyond performance; they are also credited as co-writers and co-producers of the track.
The sheer talent on stage created a dynamic and unforgettable performance, highlighting the song’s raw energy and emotional depth. The combination of Sheeran’s songwriting, Grohl’s powerful drumming, and Mayer’s signature guitar work resulted in a track that transcends genres and appeals to a broad audience.
Beyond the Performance: Album Release and Netflix Controversy
The release of “Drive” coincided with the release of Sheeran’s latest studio album, ‘Play’, in September. Sheeran further expanded his visual storytelling with a Netflix special, One shot, directed by Philip Barantini (known for Adolescence and Boiling Point) . However, the special wasn’t without controversy. La Blogothèque,known for its iconic one-take music sessions,accused Netflix of replicating their format without proper acknowledgment .
Foo Fighters Continue Onward
While Sheeran’s project was gaining momentum, Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters were also making headlines. The band recently played their first show of 2026 in Mexico, a performance marked by a tribute to guitarist Pat Smear, who is currently sidelined due to a broken leg . The band’s resilience and dedication to their fans were on full display, demonstrating their enduring legacy in the rock music landscape.
The Future of ‘Drive’ and Sheeran’s Musical Journey
With an Oscar nomination on the line, “Drive” continues to garner attention and solidify its place as a standout track.The song represents a bold step for ed Sheeran, showcasing his versatility and willingness to collaborate with some of the most respected musicians in the industry. Whether it takes home the coveted award remains to be seen,but the song’s impact is undeniable. As Sheeran continues to evolve as an artist, projects like “Drive” demonstrate his commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
