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Oscars 2025: Best Original Song Performances Eliminated - What's Next for the Nominees?

Writer's picture: Je-ReeJe-Ree



It's official: the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a major change for the 2025 Oscar ceremony. In a surprising move, the renowned event will no longer feature live performances of the Best Original Song nominees. This bittersweet news has sparked a mix of emotions among fans and industry professionals, raising important questions about how this shift will change the Oscars experience.


The announcement was shared in a letter to the Academy's members, where CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang laid out the new direction for the Best Original Song category. Instead of live performances, the ceremony will celebrate the songwriters behind the nominations, focusing on their artistry and the inspiration that fuels their work.





The Academy's excitement about its "Fab 5" moments indicates a desire to honor the artists behind the songs. "We will celebrate their artistry through personal reflections from the teams who bring these songs to life," the letter pointed out. This change prioritizes the creators' stories and offers the audience a deeper understanding of the creative process.


Live performances have been a staple of the Oscars since 1946, featuring unforgettable acts from legends like Frank Sinatra and Robert Goulet. For instance, in 1975, Paul Williams' performance of "Evergreen" captivated audiences. While there have been a few ceremonies that omitted live performances, such as in 1989 and 2021, this decision marks a significant departure from tradition.


Even with the changes to the Best Original Song category, the 2025 ceremony will still include impactful musical elements. The letter hinted at "powerful musical moments that connect film’s rich history to its bold and inspiring future." This promise suggests that although the nominees won't perform, music will still play an essential role in the event.


Additionally, the Academy plans to showcase Los Angeles, the heart of the Oscars, as a symbol of beauty, resilience, and dreams, particularly following the recent wildfires that affected the area. Highlighting aspects of the city may provide a backdrop that celebrates the spirit of the film industry.


For nominees of Best Original Song, this change raises concerns about visibility and audience connection. Live performances allow artists to convey their emotions, often deepening the emotional impact of their music. For example, when H.E.R. performed "Fight for You" at the 2021 Oscars, her heartfelt delivery left audiences moved. Without these live moments, nominees might feel a disconnect from the Oscars experience they have long envisioned.





However, emphasizing songwriters can give new visibility to the broader creative teams behind notable films. This fresh approach may spark more extensive discussions about songwriting and underscore its vital role in cinema, shining a light on the artistry often overlooked in live performances.


As the 2025 Oscars approach, anticipation grows around the Academy's new format for the Best Original Song category. While the absence of live performances may disappoint some fans, focusing on songwriters could reveal untold stories that enhance appreciation for film music.


With nominations set to be announced on January 23, 2025, (The ceremony airs Sunday, March 2, at 7 pm on ABC hosted by Conan O’Brien.) excitement builds regarding how this shift will ultimately impact songwriters and artists. As the film industry evolves, so must our celebration of the artistry that drives it.



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