The announcement of star-studded musical performances for the 97th Annual Academy Awards has stirred excitement in the entertainment industry. With a roster that includes diverse artists like Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, LISA from Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and RAYE, this year’s Oscars promises to present an unforgettable celebration of film and music. However, this shift in musical direction indicates a departure from the traditional patterns of the Oscars—signifying a potential evolution in how the Academy Awards resonates with modern audiences.
The Academy’s decision to feature such a varied selection of performers points to its intention to appeal to a broader demographic. The inclusion of pop icons and genre-defining artists is reminiscent of a Grammy Awards lineup rather than the classic film-focused acts usually associated with the Oscars. Prominent figures from the pop and hip-hop scenes are now set to share the stage, showcasing the Academy’s recognition of music’s changing landscape.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the stars of the blockbuster film adaptation of “Wicked,” are expected to deliver a powerful musical number, although specifics regarding their performance remain tightly under wraps. With “Wicked” also being the most successful musical adaptation in Broadway history, the Academy would be remiss not to highlight its significance. Yet, there’s a certain irony in their performance, as it will be detached from the Best Original Song competition due to the absence of suitable nominations. This decision raises questions about the Academy’s traditional categories and how they are perceived by contemporary audiences.
The exclusion of the five nominated songs from live performances has sparked controversy and disappointment among the music branch and Best Song nominees. Talents such as Elton John, Zoe Saldana, and Diane Warren were left out of the spotlight, leading to concern that this year’s Oscars might undervalue the significance of the award categories that pay tribute to original music composition in film.
The expressed focus on performances from pop culture rather than the nominated songs underscores a disheartening trend—the Oscars may be prioritizing ratings and viewer engagement over honoring cinematic music and its creators. Producers are reimagining the Oscars’ musical identity, but this decision raises critical questions about the intrinsic value of live performances in celebrating the craft of songwriting in film.
In an era marked by media consumption dominated by streams and viral videos, the Academy Awards are attempting to redefine engagement with a younger audience. By featuring current chart-toppers in its programming, the Oscars hope to reconstruct the perception of the ceremony from an antiquated film event to a lively, culturally relevant celebration. The involvement of influential figures like Doja Cat and Queen Latifah embodies this ambition to attract a wider range of viewers who may typically overlook the Oscars.
Additionally, the collaboration with the Los Angeles Master Chorale aids in bridging traditional and contemporary musical elements. This amalgamation offers an opportunity for harmonizing newer musical interpretations with classic film history, presenting a multifaceted evening that may entice a more eclectic audience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Oscars
As we eagerly approach the live telecast hosted by Conan O’Brien on March 2, 2025, there is palpable curiosity regarding how these performances will unfold and what they will signify for the Academy Awards’ future. As the awards ceremony grapples with its identity in this new era of entertainment, it becomes essential to consider how to balance innovation with respect for artistry.
The Academy appears poised to create a memorable night that will both celebrate filmmaking legends and the evolution of music in modern cinema. While this transformation may come with risks and challenges, the choice to resonate with contemporary artistic expressions reflects a willingness to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. Ultimately, the success of the 97th Academy Awards may well set the precedent for future ceremonies, redefining what it means to celebrate music and cinema together authentically and engagingly.
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