Oscar-Nominated Original Songs 2023: Full List

The 2023 Oscars celebrated the best original songs that graced our ears in the past year. The nominees represented a diverse range of genres and artists, each contributing unique melodies and lyrics to their respective films. The nominees were:

• "Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman
• "Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick
• "Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
• "Naatu Naatu" from RRR
• "This Is A Life" from Everything Everywhere All at Once

A Deep Dive into the Oscar-Nominated Original Songs of 2023

Let's get into the musical masterpieces that were nominated for Best Original Song at the 2023 Oscars. These songs aren't just catchy tunes; they're integral parts of the films they accompany, adding layers of emotion, narrative depth, and cultural significance. Each nominee brought something special to the table, making the competition fierce and the eventual winner all the more deserving.

"Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman

"Applause," performed by Sofia Carson and written by Diane Warren, is a powerful ballad from the anthology film Tell It Like a Woman. Diane Warren, a legendary songwriter, has been nominated for an Oscar multiple times, and "Applause" is another testament to her ability to craft emotive and resonant songs. The song encapsulates the film's themes of female empowerment and resilience. The movie features seven different stories, all tied together by the common thread of women overcoming challenges and celebrating their strength. "Applause" serves as an anthem for these women, capturing the spirit of their journeys and adding a layer of emotional depth to the film. The lyrics speak of finding inner strength, embracing one's voice, and celebrating the power of womanhood. Sofia Carson's delivery is both heartfelt and powerful, perfectly complementing the song's message. While "Applause" may not have been the frontrunner, its nomination highlights the importance of films that tell women's stories and the power of music to amplify those narratives. The song's inclusion among the nominees also reflects the Academy's increasing recognition of diverse voices and perspectives in cinema. The song was praised for the way it captures the emotion of the movie and the message behind the stories, but in a year of big contenders it failed to make a big splash.

"Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick

"Hold My Hand," performed by Lady Gaga, was written for Top Gun: Maverick, the highly anticipated sequel to the 1986 classic. This power ballad is classic Lady Gaga, with soaring vocals and a stadium-ready arrangement. It captures the emotional core of the film, emphasizing themes of bravery, sacrifice, and connection. "Hold My Hand" not only enhances the film's emotional impact but also stands alone as a powerful and inspirational anthem. Its universal themes of support, resilience, and the importance of human connection resonate with audiences beyond the context of the film. Lady Gaga's involvement brought considerable attention to the song, and her performance at the Oscars was one of the evening's highlights. The song's message is simple yet profound: in times of trouble, we all need someone to hold our hand and guide us through. This sentiment aligns perfectly with the themes of camaraderie and support that run throughout Top Gun: Maverick. The song's production is polished and anthemic, making it a perfect fit for both the film and Lady Gaga's signature style. While Top Gun: Maverick was a massive box office success, "Hold My Hand" faced tough competition from other strong contenders in the Best Original Song category. Even without winning, its nomination and performance at the Oscars solidified its place as a memorable and impactful song of the year. Guys, this song was really something special, right?

"Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

"Lift Me Up," performed by Rihanna, marked her return to music after a long hiatus. Written for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, this emotional ballad serves as a tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, who played T'Challa in the first Black Panther film. The song is a poignant and moving tribute, reflecting on loss, remembrance, and hope. Rihanna's vocals are tender and vulnerable, perfectly capturing the emotional weight of the film and the real-life loss of Chadwick Boseman. The lyrics speak of finding strength in community, honoring the past, and looking towards the future. The song’s release was highly anticipated, given Rihanna's absence from the music scene for several years. Its inclusion in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever added another layer of emotional depth to an already powerful film. The song is a beautiful homage to Chadwick, and it captures the grief and hope that permeate the film. The understated production allows Rihanna's vocals to take center stage, creating an intimate and moving listening experience. "Lift Me Up" resonated deeply with audiences, not only as a tribute to Chadwick Boseman but also as a universal expression of grief and hope. Its nomination for Best Original Song at the Oscars was a testament to its emotional impact and the power of music to honor and remember. This song reminded us of the power of music and how it can capture grief and hope in beautiful ways. It was a strong contender, and Rihanna's performance was amazing.

"Naatu Naatu" from RRR

"Naatu Naatu," performed by Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava, is the high-energy, show-stopping number from the Telugu-language film RRR. Composed by M. M. Keeravani with lyrics by Chandrabose, this song is a vibrant celebration of Indian culture and brotherhood. This high-energy dance number not only became a global sensation but also brought international attention to Indian cinema. Its infectious beat and dynamic choreography made it a viral sensation, and its inclusion in the Oscars race was a historic moment for Indian film. "Naatu Naatu" is more than just a catchy tune; it's a representation of Indian pride, unity, and the power of dance. The song's vibrant energy and infectious rhythm are impossible to resist, making it a crowd-pleaser around the world. The lyrics celebrate the spirit of friendship and the joy of movement, while the choreography is a dazzling display of Indian dance traditions. The song's success is a testament to the universal appeal of music and dance, transcending cultural boundaries and bringing people together. The performance at the Oscars was a highlight of the night, showcasing the incredible talent and energy of the RRR team. "Naatu Naatu" winning the Oscar for Best Original Song was a monumental achievement for Indian cinema, marking a significant milestone in the industry's global recognition. This win not only celebrated the song's excellence but also opened doors for more Indian films and artists to gain international acclaim. The win was so well-deserved because it's just one of those songs that gets stuck in your head.

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

"This Is A Life," performed by Son Lux featuring Mitski and David Byrne, is from the mind-bending film Everything Everywhere All at Once. The song is co-written by the members of Son Lux, David Byrne, and Ryan Lott. This unique and experimental track perfectly complements the film's chaotic and surreal nature. "This Is A Life" captures the film's themes of interconnectedness, existentialism, and the search for meaning in a multiverse. The song is as unconventional and genre-bending as the film itself, blending elements of indie rock, electronic music, and experimental soundscapes. Mitski's haunting vocals add a layer of emotional depth, while David Byrne's distinctive voice brings a sense of quirky energy. The lyrics explore the complexities of life, the choices we make, and the connections we forge with others. The song's experimental nature may not appeal to everyone, but it perfectly encapsulates the unique and visionary spirit of Everything Everywhere All at Once. Its inclusion among the Best Original Song nominees reflects the Academy's willingness to embrace unconventional and boundary-pushing art. "This Is A Life" is a testament to the power of music to enhance and complement a film's narrative, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect compliment to such a bizarre and amazing movie.

The Winner and the Impact

The Oscar for Best Original Song in 2023 went to "Naatu Naatu" from RRR. This victory was a historic moment for Indian cinema, marking the first time an Indian film won in this category. The song's win was celebrated globally, highlighting the increasing recognition and appreciation of Indian culture and artistry on the world stage. "Naatu Naatu's" win was not just a victory for the film but also a triumph for Indian cinema as a whole. It opened doors for more Indian films and artists to gain international recognition and paved the way for future collaborations between India and the global entertainment industry. The song's success also inspired countless people around the world to embrace Indian culture and explore the richness and diversity of Indian cinema and music. The impact of "Naatu Naatu" extends far beyond the Oscars, leaving a lasting legacy on the global entertainment landscape.

Conclusion

The Oscar-nominated original songs of 2023 showcased the incredible power of music to enhance storytelling, evoke emotions, and celebrate cultural diversity. From power ballads to high-energy dance numbers, each song brought something unique and special to the table. While "Naatu Naatu" ultimately took home the prize, all the nominees deserve recognition for their contributions to the world of film and music. These songs reminded us of the power of music to connect us, inspire us, and make us feel alive. Whether it was Lady Gaga's soaring vocals, Rihanna's emotional delivery, or the infectious energy of "Naatu Naatu", each song left a lasting impression on our hearts and minds. The 2023 Oscars were a testament to the enduring power of music in film and the ability of songs to transcend cultural boundaries and unite people through shared experiences. So, let's keep listening, keep dancing, and keep celebrating the magic of music in cinema!