The 97th Annual Academy Awards is set to make waves not only in the film industry but also within the music realm, as the Academy has announced a thrilling roster of performers for this year’s ceremony. Among the names gracing the Oscar stage are chart-topping artists such as Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, LISA from Blackpink, the iconic Queen Latifah, and the sensational RAYE. This performance promises to be a celebration of the cinematic arts, underscoring the integral role music plays in filmmaking. However, as the event approaches, questions arise about the artistic choices made for the musical segments of an awards show long associated with traditional performances.
The Academy has described the upcoming ceremony as featuring “showstopping performances” that aim to honor both the filmmaking community and its legendary contributors. The inclusion of the Los Angeles Master Chorale adds an extra layer of grandeur to the event. Traditionally, the Oscars have been a platform for showcasing music, but this year’s lineup hints at a shift toward a more contemporary soundscape. Given the prominence of performers like LISA and Doja Cat, the stakes appear high for creating a visually and sonically compelling experience that pleases a diverse audience.
Speculation has been rampant regarding the performances scheduled for the night, particularly concerning the participation of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, both of whom star in the highly celebrated film adaptation of the Broadway musical **Wicked**. While it is widely suspected that they will present a number from the film, no official confirmation has been made. What makes this situation particularly intriguing is **Wicked’s** status as the highest-grossing musical adaptation in Broadway history, ensuring that any performance linked to this production is bound to capture viewers’ attention. However, it’s worth noting that the film’s lack of original songs disqualifies it from competing in the Best Song category, a point that raises questions about how the Academy will navigate musical selections this year.
A significant point of contention has emerged recently when the Academy made headlines—before the official nominations were released—by announcing that none of the five nominated songs for Best Original Song would be performed during the ceremony. This announcement sparked discontent among many members of the music branch, including notable figures like Elton John and Diane Warren, both of whom have been heavily involved in the Oscars in years past. This year, however, the Academy appears to be taking a gamble by prioritizing performance diversity over tradition, a move that could either pay off spectacularly or risk alienating traditional Oscar fans.
The 2025 Oscars could potentially mirror the auditory landscape typically reserved for the Grammy Awards. With producers curating a lineup that includes popular names from various musical genres, it’s evident that the Academy is keen on appealing to a younger, more eclectic demographic. The presence of performers such as RAYE and Queen Latifah also signifies a broadened perspective on music and representation within the cinematic celebration. Notably, the show’s producer, Raj Kapoor, brings experience from the Grammy Awards to this year’s production, perhaps aiming for a more high-energy, diverse entertainment experience.
As anticipation mounts, the 97th Academy Awards promises to be an event filled with surprises and groundbreaking performances. With a live airing scheduled on ABC for March 2, 2025, there is a palpable buzz about how the unique musical inclusion will resonate with viewers. The production team’s objective seems to center around celebrating innovation, creativity, and a communal experience that unites film and music in unprecedented ways. Whether this year’s performances will set a new precedent or simply serve as a novel diversion remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the Oscars are stepping into a new era where the line between Hollywood and the music industry is increasingly blurred.
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