Oscar Nominated Songs 2023: Full List & Where To Listen

by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey music lovers and movie buffs! The 2023 Oscars were a night to remember, and while the golden statues are the main attraction, let's be real – the music is what truly elevates a film. This year's nominees for Best Original Song were absolutely stellar, each bringing a unique flavor and emotional depth to their respective movies. So, let's dive into the list of Oscar-nominated songs from 2023, give you a little insight into each one, and tell you where you can give them a listen. Get ready to update your playlists, folks!

A Look at the Nominees

The competition was fierce, guys, but each of these songs truly deserved the recognition. From powerful ballads to catchy pop anthems, the nominees showcased a diverse range of styles and stories. Let's break them down:

  • "Naatu Naatu" from RRR: This high-energy, infectious dance number isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon. Performed by Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava, with music by M.M. Keeravani and lyrics by Chandrabose, "Naatu Naatu" took the world by storm with its incredible choreography and vibrant celebration of Indian culture. The song's energetic rhythm and powerful vocals make it impossible not to move your feet. The global popularity of "Naatu Naatu" reflects its ability to transcend language barriers and connect with audiences on a primal level. Its catchy tune and dynamic visuals have made it a viral sensation, inspiring countless dance challenges and covers. The song's success is a testament to the universality of music and dance as forms of expression. Beyond its entertainment value, "Naatu Naatu" also highlights the rich cultural heritage of India, showcasing its vibrant traditions and artistic talent. The song's creators have expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and recognition it has received, emphasizing the importance of celebrating diversity and cultural exchange through art. The infectious energy of "Naatu Naatu" has made it a staple at parties, celebrations, and sporting events around the world. Its ability to unite people from different backgrounds is a testament to the power of music as a universal language. The song's widespread acclaim has also brought attention to the Indian film industry, showcasing its talent and creativity on a global stage. "Naatu Naatu" has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the music landscape, and its legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

  • "Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: Performed by Rihanna, with music by Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Ludwig Göransson, and lyrics by Tems and Ryan Coogler, "Lift Me Up" is a soulful and emotional tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman. Rihanna's vocals are hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the grief and hope that permeate the film. The song serves as a poignant reminder of Boseman's legacy and the enduring impact he had on the world. "Lift Me Up" is a powerful ballad that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level. Rihanna's heartfelt performance conveys a sense of vulnerability and strength, reflecting the themes of loss and resilience that are central to the film. The song's minimalist arrangement allows Rihanna's vocals to take center stage, creating an intimate and moving experience for the listener. The lyrics of "Lift Me Up" are both poetic and profound, exploring themes of love, loss, and the search for hope in the face of adversity. The song's message of resilience and perseverance is particularly resonant in today's world, where many people are grappling with challenges and uncertainties. "Lift Me Up" has been praised for its ability to capture the emotional essence of the film, serving as a fitting tribute to Chadwick Boseman's memory. The song's widespread acclaim has also brought attention to the importance of representation and diversity in Hollywood. Rihanna's involvement in the project has further amplified its impact, demonstrating her commitment to using her platform to promote meaningful and impactful art. "Lift Me Up" is a timeless ballad that will continue to touch hearts and inspire hope for generations to come.

  • "This Is A Life" from Everything Everywhere All at Once: This eclectic and genre-bending song, performed by Son Lux featuring Mitski and David Byrne, with music by Ryan Lott, David Byrne, and Mitski, and lyrics by Ryan Lott and David Byrne, perfectly encapsulates the film's chaotic and surreal nature. It's a wild ride of sounds and emotions that somehow manages to be both bizarre and deeply moving. "This Is A Life" is a sonic exploration of the complexities of existence, blending elements of art-pop, electronic music, and experimental soundscapes. The song's unconventional structure and unpredictable arrangements create a sense of disorientation and wonder, mirroring the film's exploration of alternate realities. Mitski and David Byrne's vocals add a layer of intrigue and depth to the song, their contrasting styles creating a unique and captivating dynamic. The lyrics of "This Is A Life" are both abstract and evocative, inviting listeners to interpret their meaning and connect with the song on a personal level. The song's themes of identity, purpose, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world resonate with audiences who have grappled with existential questions. "This Is A Life" has been praised for its originality and its ability to capture the essence of the film's unconventional narrative. The song's nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards is a testament to its artistic merit and its impact on the film's overall success. "This Is A Life" is a groundbreaking piece of music that challenges conventional notions of songwriting and sound design, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

  • "Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman: Diane Warren, a songwriting legend, wrote both the music and lyrics for "Applause," performed by Sofia Carson. This powerful ballad celebrates female empowerment and resilience. It's an anthem for anyone who has overcome adversity and found their voice. The emotional depth of "Applause" resonates deeply with listeners, making it a standout track. "Applause" is a soaring ballad that celebrates the strength and resilience of women, with Sofia Carson's vocals conveying a sense of empowerment and hope. The song's uplifting message and inspiring lyrics resonate with audiences who have faced challenges and overcome obstacles. Diane Warren's songwriting prowess shines through in "Applause," with its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song's arrangement is both grand and intimate, creating a sense of vulnerability and strength. The lyrics of "Applause" encourage listeners to embrace their inner power and to celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. The song's themes of self-love, acceptance, and perseverance are particularly relevant in today's world, where many people are struggling with issues of identity and self-worth. "Applause" has been praised for its ability to inspire and uplift listeners, serving as a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. The song's nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards is a testament to its artistic merit and its impact on audiences. "Applause" is a timeless anthem that will continue to empower and inspire women for generations to come.

  • "Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick: Lady Gaga, along with BloodPop, wrote "Hold My Hand," which Gaga also performed. This soaring power ballad is a classic Gaga anthem, filled with emotion and soaring vocals. It perfectly captures the themes of love, loss, and bravery in the high-flying action film. "Hold My Hand" is a soaring power ballad that showcases Lady Gaga's vocal prowess and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. The song's themes of love, loss, and resilience resonate with audiences who have experienced heartbreak and overcome adversity. Lady Gaga's performance is both powerful and vulnerable, conveying a sense of strength and vulnerability. The song's arrangement is both grand and intimate, creating a sense of soaring hope and quiet reflection. The lyrics of "Hold My Hand" offer solace and support to those who are struggling, reminding them that they are not alone. The song's message of hope and perseverance is particularly relevant in today's world, where many people are facing challenges and uncertainties. "Hold My Hand" has been praised for its ability to inspire and uplift listeners, serving as a reminder that they are capable of overcoming anything. The song's nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards is a testament to its artistic merit and its impact on audiences. "Hold My Hand" is a timeless anthem that will continue to inspire and uplift listeners for generations to come.

The Winner Is...

And the Oscar goes to... "Naatu Naatu" from RRR! What a moment! This victory was so well-deserved. The energy, the cultural impact, the sheer joy of the song – it all added up to a win that resonated far beyond the Dolby Theatre. The crowd went wild, and honestly, so did the rest of the world!

Where Can You Listen to These Amazing Songs?

Okay, now that you're properly hyped, you're probably wondering where you can get your ears on these incredible tracks. Here’s the lowdown:

  • Spotify: All the nominated songs are readily available on Spotify. Just search for the song title or the movie soundtrack.
  • Apple Music: Similar to Spotify, Apple Music has all the nominees ready for your listening pleasure.
  • YouTube Music: If you prefer YouTube, you can find official audio tracks and in some cases, music videos of the songs.
  • Amazon Music: Another great option, especially if you’re already an Amazon Prime member.

Most of these platforms offer free trials, so you can explore without committing right away. Time to get listening, folks!

Why These Songs Matter

Beyond the glitz and glam of the Oscars, these songs represent something truly special. They're a testament to the power of music to tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect us all. Each nominee brought a unique perspective and artistic vision to their respective films, enhancing the viewing experience and leaving a lasting impact on audiences. The power of music in film cannot be overstated. A well-placed song can amplify emotions, underscore themes, and even become iconic in its own right. These nominated songs did just that, solidifying their place in cinematic history.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 Oscar-nominated songs were a diverse and captivating collection, showcasing the incredible talent of songwriters and performers from around the world. Whether you're a fan of high-energy dance numbers or heartfelt ballads, there was something for everyone to enjoy. So, go ahead, give these songs a listen and experience the magic for yourself. And who knows, maybe you'll discover your new favorite song! Happy listening, guys! And congrats again to "Naatu Naatu" for taking home the gold!