2023 Oscars: Best Original Song Nominees Revealed!

Hey music lovers and movie buffs! The 2023 Oscars are just around the corner, and the anticipation is building! One of the most exciting categories, in my opinion, is Best Original Song. There's just something magical about a song that perfectly captures the emotion and spirit of a film. This year's nominees are incredibly diverse and talented, showcasing a wide range of musical styles and storytelling approaches. So, without further ado, let's dive into the amazing tracks that are vying for the golden statuette!

"Naatu Naatu" from RRR

"Naatu Naatu" has taken the world by storm, and for good reason! This high-energy, infectious dance number from the Telugu-language Indian film RRR is an absolute blast. The song, composed by M. M. Keeravani with lyrics by Chandrabose, is a celebration of friendship, brotherhood, and Indian culture. It’s impossible to resist the urge to get up and dance when you hear it! The choreography is electrifying, and the vibrant visuals of the film perfectly complement the song's energy. It’s not just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon. What makes "Naatu Naatu" so special is its ability to transcend language barriers. Even if you don't understand the lyrics, the sheer joy and exuberance of the music are universally appealing. The song has garnered widespread acclaim for its infectious rhythm, captivating visuals, and its representation of Indian cinema on a global stage. Its nomination for Best Original Song at the Oscars marks a significant milestone for Indian film and music. The global popularity of "Naatu Naatu" is a testament to the power of music to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures. Whether you're a Bollywood fan or new to Indian cinema, "Naatu Naatu" is a song that will get you moving and grooving. This song truly deserves all the hype and recognition it has been getting. It is such a vibe and really makes you appreciate the beauty of different cultures. The production value is high quality and the mixing and mastering of the song are top notch. The lyrics are really well written and complement the music perfectly. I am a huge fan of this song and I am so glad that it has been nominated for an Oscar. If this song wins, it will open more doors for other cultures and bring much needed diversity to the film industry.

"Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

"Lift Me Up," performed by the one and only Rihanna, is a powerful and emotionally resonant ballad from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This song serves as a tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, who played T'Challa in the first Black Panther film. The lyrics, co-written by Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Ludwig Göransson, speak of loss, grief, and the need for support and healing. Rihanna's vocals are stunning, conveying a deep sense of vulnerability and strength. It's a truly moving performance that perfectly captures the film's themes of family, legacy, and resilience. The song's composition is beautifully simple, allowing Rihanna's voice and the heartfelt lyrics to take center stage. It's a song that stays with you long after you've heard it, prompting reflection on the importance of human connection and the power of hope in the face of adversity. The cultural impact of "Lift Me Up" extends beyond its role in the film. It's become an anthem for those who have experienced loss and a reminder of the importance of honoring the memory of loved ones. Rihanna's performance has been praised for its sincerity and emotional depth, solidifying her status as a global icon. The song's nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to resonate with audiences on a profound level. “Lift Me Up” is more than just a song; it's a heartfelt tribute and a symbol of hope and healing. It is really awesome to see Rihanna back in the music scene. This song is a great comeback for her and shows just how talented she is. I really hope she makes more music in the future. She is a true inspiration to many people.

"This Is A Life" from Everything Everywhere All at Once

"This Is A Life," performed by Son Lux featuring Mitski and David Byrne, is an incredibly unique and experimental track from the mind-bending film Everything Everywhere All at Once. The song, composed by Son Lux, David Byrne, and Ryan Lott, perfectly encapsulates the film's chaotic and surreal nature. It blends elements of electronic music, art-pop, and spoken word to create a truly unforgettable sonic experience. Mitski's ethereal vocals add a layer of haunting beauty, while David Byrne's quirky delivery adds a touch of playful absurdity. The lyrics, which touch on themes of identity, purpose, and the interconnectedness of all things, are thought-provoking and open to interpretation. What makes "This Is A Life" so special is its willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations. It's not a conventional pop song, but rather a piece of sonic art that challenges listeners to think outside the box. The song's nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to the Academy's willingness to embrace experimental and unconventional music. Its inclusion in the film's soundtrack is essential to the overall experience, enhancing the film's themes and adding another layer of depth to its already complex narrative. "This Is A Life" is a song that rewards repeated listens, revealing new nuances and layers with each encounter. It's a bold and innovative piece of music that is sure to leave a lasting impression. I really appreciate this song's originality and creativity. It is not afraid to be different and that is what makes it so special. The message of the song is also very important and thought-provoking. It really makes you think about the meaning of life and our place in the universe. Overall, this is a great song and I am glad that it has been nominated for an Oscar.

"Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick

"Hold My Hand," performed by Lady Gaga, is a soaring power ballad from Top Gun: Maverick. This song is a classic Gaga anthem, complete with soaring vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a stadium-ready chorus. Written by Lady Gaga and BloodPop, the song perfectly captures the film's themes of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty. It's an emotional powerhouse that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. Gaga's vocals are, as always, phenomenal, showcasing her incredible range and control. The song's production is slick and polished, giving it a timeless quality that feels both modern and nostalgic. What makes "Hold My Hand" so effective is its ability to tap into universal emotions. It's a song about believing in yourself, supporting those you care about, and never giving up hope, even in the face of adversity. The song's inclusion in Top Gun: Maverick is a perfect match, adding another layer of emotional resonance to the film's already thrilling narrative. Its nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. "Hold My Hand" is a song that will stay with you long after the credits roll, reminding you of the power of human connection and the importance of never losing faith. I am a big fan of Lady Gaga and I think this song is one of her best. She always puts so much emotion and passion into her music. I really appreciate that she is not afraid to be herself and that she uses her platform to speak out about important issues. She is a true role model for many people. The music video is also very well done and complements the song perfectly. It is a beautiful and inspiring video that will leave you feeling hopeful and uplifted.

"Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman

"Applause," performed by Sofia Carson, is a powerful and uplifting ballad from the film Tell It Like a Woman. Diane Warren wrote the song, and it celebrates the strength and resilience of women. Carson's vocals are stunning, conveying a sense of vulnerability and determination. The lyrics speak of overcoming adversity, finding your voice, and celebrating your accomplishments. It's a message that resonates deeply with women around the world. What makes "Applause" so special is its ability to inspire and empower. It's a song about self-love, acceptance, and the importance of supporting other women. The song's inclusion in Tell It Like a Woman is a perfect fit, amplifying the film's message of female empowerment. Its nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. I really appreciate the message of this song and the fact that it is celebrating women. I think it is very important to have more songs like this that empower women and encourage them to be themselves. Sofia Carson is a very talented singer and I think she did a great job with this song. I really hope this song wins because it is a very important message and it would be great to see it recognized on a global scale. The song is a reminder that women are strong, resilient, and capable of anything they set their minds to. It's a call to celebrate the achievements of women and to support them in their pursuit of their dreams. This song definitely deserves to be nominated and win an Oscar! More songs like this please!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks! The 2023 Oscar nominees for Best Original Song are a truly exceptional bunch. Each song brings something unique and special to the table, making it a tough competition. Who do I think will win? That's a tough call! "Naatu Naatu" has the momentum and the global appeal, "Lift Me Up" has the emotional weight and Rihanna's star power, "This Is A Life" has the artistic innovation, “Hold My Hand” has the commercial success and Gaga’s star power, and "Applause" has the powerful message. Ultimately, it will come down to the Academy voters and what resonates with them the most. No matter who wins, one thing is for sure: these songs have all made a significant impact on the world of music and film. Let me know in the comments which song you're rooting for! And be sure to tune in to the Oscars to see who takes home the gold! I am super excited to see who wins and I hope that my favorite song wins. Good luck to all the nominees! This is going to be a very exciting year for music and film. May the best song win! I cannot wait to see who takes home the Oscar. It is going to be an exciting night! So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and enjoy the show!