Nick Bond of MTV Australia wrote that the song is "worthy of Rihanna". Davey Boy of Sputnikmusic compared "Burn" to Mauboy's previous single "Running Back", writing it "is almost as good with its restrained use of electronica combining with a contagious chorus to result in a song which will be just as at home on radio as it is in the clubs." Dung Le of Mediasearch found "Burn" more "catchier" than "Running Back" and noted that its R&amp;B grooves and catchy chorus will set "Jessica up well for a big assault in 2009 and a possible overseas release." "Burn" was awarded an ARIA No. 1 Chart Award for reaching number one on the ARIA Singles Chart. At the 2009 Deadly Awards, "Burn" won 'Single of the Year'. It was nominated for 'Highest Selling Single' at the 2009 ARIA Music Awards, but her previous single "Running Back" took that title. "Burn" became the fourth most-played song on Australian radio stations by February 2009.