How a movie playlist took over streaming charts and defined 2025’s vibe
Summer 2025 had its anthem—and it came in the form of f1 the album. More than just background music for a blockbuster, this dynamic soundtrack stood on its own, dominating streaming charts and capturing hearts. Seven out of the top ten spots in the Top Movie Songs chart belonged to tracks from this album. Leading the pack? just keep watching by Tate McRae.
Tate McRae delivered something rare: a cinematic pop song made for motion pictures, even before the movie premiered. just keep watching dropped ahead of the film, instantly picking up millions of streams. Social media catapulted it further, and it climbed steadily into the Billboard Hot 100, emerging as one of the summer’s defining tracks.
What made that song stand out wasn’t just its catchy beat—it was the emotional weight behind it. With sweeping melodies and pulsing energy, it captured the intensity of race day and mirrored the highs and lows of life on the track. In short, it gave listeners a full sensory experience in just one song.
But Tate wasn’t the only artist turning heads. Chris Stapleton rocketed into second place with bad as i used to be, his country-rock voice perfectly aligned with the raw grit of the film. The tune carried passion and earthiness, providing a deeper emotional layer to the soundtrack.
Urban-pop energy arrived in third place, courtesy of Doja Cat and Don Toliver’s lose my mind. Featuring a beat that hits the bones and lyrics that stick, the track injected variety and modern flair into the album.
Ed Sheeran added a tender touch with drive, a sensitive yet powerful piece that felt introspective but resonated widely. It became a beloved part of the soundtrack, proving he could add emotional depth while fitting into the movie’s larger narrative.
In fifth, Jack Black made waves with steve’s lava chicken—a hilarious featured bit from a minecraft movie that went viral overnight. It showed that even a comedic tune can win over serious listeners when it’s unexpected and undeniably memorable.
Rounding out the list were icons and old favorites that anyone would recognize. Queen’s we will rock you made a triumphant return. A dramatic pause arrived with will ye go, lassie go? from sinners. 80s optimism came in nothing’s gonna stop us now by Starship, from thunderbolts. Rosé’s messy delivered contemporary pop girl power. And Led Zeppelin’s whole lotta love injected raw rock flair.
Released at the same time as the film, f1 the album debuted at no. 13 on the Billboard 200 and held that position for weeks—proof that its power went far beyond just movie fans. Every song made a statement, and fans responded. The album wasn’t a soundtrack—it was a musical journey.
The production team also deserves credit. They didn't rely solely on big names. Instead, they curated an adventurous mix of styles and songwriters, choosing each piece to evoke emotion and connect with listeners. They created an album that speaks emotionally, aesthetically, and thematically—and it works, whether or not you’ve seen the film.
just keep watching became the summer’s unofficial soundtrack. Its energy, voice, and imagery created a lasting impression that’s still echoing. That track alone is enough to explain how soundtracks should be done.
Thanks to f1 the album, we’re asking new questions about music in movies. Soundtracks don’t have to be secondary—they can be central. They can drive the emotional narrative. They can stand alone and still matter.
In 2025, the path forward for soundtracks is clear: they must feel authentic, bold, and emotionally grounded. Audiences want more than spectacle. They want melody that moves them, lyrics that reflect truth, and songs that feel alive.
Tate McRae and everyone who contributed to f1 the album proved that film music can be more than an accessory—it can lead the story. For this summer, they delivered exactly that. This album wasn’t just a highlight—it was an unforgettable moment in music. And it’s one that fans will replay long after the credits roll.
