On November 5, 2025, the nominations for the 16th annual Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA) were officially unveiled, spotlighting exceptional original music across a diverse range of visual media formats, including film, television, video games, commercials, and more. The HMMAs, which have earned a reputation as one of the leading honors for media music in the U.S., are particularly notable for recognizing the creative contributions of composers and music supervisors in shaping the auditory landscape of modern entertainment.
This year’s nominations were dominated by the musical film Wicked: For Good, which earned an impressive six nominations. The film’s combination of original songs and score resonated strongly with the selection committee, positioning it as a standout contender in several categories. Close behind were the drama Sinners and the popular video game Valorant, each securing five nominations. Both projects, one in the cinematic realm and the other in interactive entertainment, underscore the increasing crossover between different types of media and their use of original music.
The Hollywood Music in Media Awards, which will be held on November 19 at The Avalon in Hollywood, is regarded as a key early indicator of trends in music and score ahead of the broader awards season. The event has become a must-attend for professionals in the industry, providing composers, musicians, and music supervisors with a valuable platform to gain recognition for their work. The nominations highlight the expanding role that music plays across a range of media formats, with original compositions becoming increasingly central to the success of films, TV shows, games, and commercials.
This year’s slate of nominees reflects a broader trend: the convergence of media platforms and the growing emphasis on original music. Music, once considered secondary to visuals, is now increasingly recognized for its integral role in shaping the viewer’s or player’s experience. This shift is particularly evident in the recognition of video game music alongside traditional film and TV scores, reflecting the evolving nature of the entertainment industry and the ways in which audiences engage with different forms of media.
For composers and music supervisors, an HMMA nomination is seen as a prestigious accomplishment that offers valuable visibility. As the awards season heats up, such recognition can help elevate careers and lead to further opportunities in both traditional and emerging media formats. The increasing spotlight on original compositions serves as a reminder of how important music is in creating memorable and impactful media experiences.
The Hollywood Music in Media Awards continue to evolve as a cornerstone event for the industry, celebrating the artistic contributions of those who shape the auditory landscape of film, television, video games, and beyond. With the growing intersection of music and visual media, the future of the HMMAs seems poised to expand even further, embracing new forms of entertainment and highlighting the ever-changing role of music in our lives.
