The 97th Academy Awards, slated for 2025, are shaping up to be a musically rich affair, even if the traditional performances of Best Original Song nominees are taking a backseat. While viewers might not see each nominated song individually showcased, the producers are weaving a tapestry of musical moments that promise to be as, if not more, impactful than previous years.
Forget simply ticking boxes with nominee performances; the 2025 Oscars are aiming for thematic resonance, pulling together iconic franchises, honoring legends, and showcasing unexpected collaborations. This isn’t just about celebrating individual songs, it’s about celebrating the broader influence of music within film.
One of the most anticipated segments is a dazzling spotlight on "Wicked." The film adaptation, already generating significant buzz, will be represented by a performance from its two leading stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The duo is scheduled to kick off the entire ceremony with a medley, setting a vibrant and energetic tone for the evening.
Beyond the emerald glow of Oz, the ceremony will also pay tribute to the enduring legacy of the James Bond franchise. This segment will likely include a medley of iconic Bond themes, spanning decades of cinematic history. Considering the wealth of recognizable and beloved songs associated with the franchise, audiences can expect a nostalgic and exciting journey through the world of 007. The anticipation is high as to which artists will be chosen to interpret these classic themes, and how they will be presented visually and musically. The inclusion of previously Oscar-nominated or winning Bond themes like "Live and Let Die," "Skyfall," and "No Time to Die" would be a fitting and crowd-pleasing choice.
Adding another layer of prestige to the musical lineup is a tribute to the legendary producer and songwriter Quincy Jones. This segment promises to celebrate Jones’ immense contributions to both music and film. With a career spanning decades and encompassing countless genres, a tribute to Quincy Jones offers a vast landscape of musical possibilities. The inclusion of Queen Latifah in this segment hints at the breadth and diversity of Jones’ influence, promising a performance that honors his innovative spirit and lasting impact.
In a surprising and potentially groundbreaking collaboration, the ceremony will also feature performances from rapper/singer Doja Cat, K-pop superstar Lisa from Blackpink, and British soul singer Raye. The trio recently joined forces for the song “Born Again,” hinting at a genre-bending and globally influenced performance that could be a true highlight of the evening. This unlikely alliance demonstrates the Academy’s willingness to embrace contemporary music and cater to a wider audience.
Despite the absence of dedicated nominee performances, the nominated songs themselves will not be entirely forgotten. The article emphasizes that audiences should still "keep an ear out" for the announcement of the winner in the Best Original Song category. The nominees for 2025 are a diverse group, including "Never Too Late" from Elton John’s documentary, "The Journey" by H.E.R., "El Mal" and "Mi Camino" from "Emilia Pérez," and "Like a Bird" from "Sing Sing." While these songs may not have their own individual performance slots, the announcement of the winner will undoubtedly shine a spotlight on their artistry and contribution to their respective films.
The article then dives into a detailed description of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s opening performance, highlighting its technical mastery and emotional resonance. The performance began with a subtle homage to Los Angeles, acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by wildfires. As the smoke cleared, Grande emerged, radiating in a sparkly ruby-red gown, immediately captivating the audience with a crystalline rendition of "Over the Rainbow." Her graceful movements and vocal flourishes added a layer of elegance to the timeless classic, showcasing her versatility and skill.
Grande’s performance seamlessly transitioned into an introduction for her "Wicked" co-star, Cynthia Erivo. Erivo, adorned in a stunning white gown, delivered a powerful rendition of "Home" from "The Wiz," channeling the emotion and hope inherent in the song. The true magic of the performance, however, occurred when Grande and Erivo joined forces to sing the opening lines of "Defying Gravity," the signature song from "Wicked."
The palpable chemistry between the two actresses was undeniable, as they locked eyes and traded verses, showcasing their genuine friendship and mutual admiration. The moment culminated in Erivo’s soaring rendition of the song’s finale, delivered as she was raised on a small platform, visually reinforcing the song’s message of empowerment and liberation. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, recognizing the performance as an instant classic.
In conclusion, the 97th Academy Awards are setting the stage for a musically dynamic and unforgettable evening. While the absence of traditional Best Original Song nominee performances might seem like a departure, the carefully curated lineup of performances, tributes, and collaborations promises to be a powerful and memorable celebration of music’s role in film. The "Wicked" showcase, the homage to James Bond, the tribute to Quincy Jones, and the unexpected collaboration of Doja Cat, Lisa, and Raye all point towards an Oscars ceremony that is both innovative and respectful of tradition. And who knows? The winner of Best Original Song may find themselves with an impromptu performance slot as well!
