Oscar 2022: Best Original Song Nominees

The Best Original Song category at the Oscars is always a highlight, celebrating the incredible power of music in film. For the 2022 Academy Awards, the nominees showcased a diverse range of styles and emotions, contributing significantly to the storytelling of their respective movies. Guys, let's dive into each of these nominated songs and explore what made them stand out!

"Be Alive" from King Richard

"Be Alive," performed by the one and only Beyoncé, is an empowering anthem that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of King Richard. The movie tells the story of Richard Williams, the father and coach of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams, and "Be Alive" serves as a powerful soundtrack to their journey. The song isn't just a catchy tune; it's a declaration of resilience, determination, and Black pride. Beyoncé's vocals are, as always, impeccable, delivering a performance that is both strong and soulful. The lyrics speak of overcoming adversity and celebrating one's heritage, resonating deeply with the themes of the film.

What makes "Be Alive" so effective is its ability to blend seamlessly with the narrative of King Richard. It amplifies the emotional impact of key scenes, highlighting the Williams family's unwavering belief in themselves despite facing numerous obstacles. The song's message of empowerment extends beyond the film, inspiring listeners to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. The collaboration between Beyoncé and Dixson resulted in a track that is both musically compelling and thematically resonant, making it a standout nominee in the Best Original Song category. The song's production is also top-notch, with a driving beat and soaring melodies that create an uplifting and motivational atmosphere. "Be Alive" is more than just a song; it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the importance of family, faith, and fighting for what you believe in. It truly captures the essence of King Richard and elevates the film to new heights. The song's cultural impact is undeniable, sparking conversations about representation, perseverance, and the power of music to inspire change. Beyoncé's involvement alone brought significant attention to the film, and "Be Alive" quickly became an anthem for many.

"Dos Oruguitas" from Encanto

Lin-Manuel Miranda, the genius behind Hamilton and Moana, gifted us "Dos Oruguitas" for the animated masterpiece Encanto. Sung in Spanish by Sebastián Yatra, this song is a heartfelt ballad that tells a poignant story of transformation and resilience. "Dos Oruguitas," meaning "Two Little Caterpillars," uses the metaphor of caterpillars undergoing metamorphosis to represent the challenges and sacrifices made by Abuela Alma in Encanto. The song's gentle melody and evocative lyrics create a sense of longing and hope, perfectly capturing the emotional core of the film.

Miranda's songwriting shines through in "Dos Oruguitas," showcasing his ability to craft songs that are both beautiful and deeply meaningful. The song's simplicity is its strength, allowing the listener to fully connect with the emotions being conveyed. Yatra's vocals are tender and expressive, adding to the song's emotional impact. The use of Spanish adds an authenticity and richness to the song, reflecting the cultural heritage of Encanto. What makes "Dos Oruguitas" so special is its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages. It's a song about family, sacrifice, and the importance of holding on to hope even in the darkest of times. The song's placement in the film is particularly effective, underscoring the emotional weight of Abuela Alma's backstory and her connection to the magical candle. "Dos Oruguitas" is a testament to Miranda's talent and his ability to create music that is both entertaining and deeply moving. The song's universal themes of love, loss, and resilience make it a timeless classic that will be cherished for years to come. Its success is a reflection of the film's overall impact, further solidifying Encanto's place as a cultural phenomenon. The song not only enhances the film but also stands alone as a beautiful piece of art, showcasing the power of music to tell stories and evoke emotions.

"Down to Joy" from Four Good Days

"Down to Joy," performed by Diana Warren, featuring Van Morrison, from Four Good Days is a powerful and emotional song that delves into the themes of addiction and recovery. The film tells the story of a mother helping her daughter through a difficult battle with substance abuse, and "Down to Joy" captures the raw emotions and struggles associated with this journey. Diana Warren's songwriting is raw and honest, reflecting the pain, hope, and resilience that are central to the film's narrative. Van Morrison's vocals add a layer of depth and emotion to the song, creating a haunting and unforgettable listening experience.

What makes "Down to Joy" so compelling is its unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by those struggling with addiction and their loved ones. The lyrics speak of the pain, the setbacks, and the unwavering hope for a better future. The song's melody is both beautiful and melancholic, perfectly capturing the emotional weight of the subject matter. Warren and Morrison's collaboration is seamless, with their voices blending together to create a powerful and moving performance. "Down to Joy" serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and support in the face of addiction. It's a song that resonates with anyone who has been touched by this issue, offering a message of hope and resilience. The song's impact extends beyond the film, raising awareness about the realities of addiction and the importance of seeking help. Its nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to its power and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The song's raw honesty and vulnerability make it a standout nominee, highlighting the transformative power of music to shed light on difficult and important issues. The song serves as a tribute to the strength and resilience of those who are fighting to overcome addiction, and it offers a message of hope to those who are struggling.

"No Time to Die" from No Time to Die

Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell brought their unique sensibilities to the James Bond franchise with "No Time to Die." This haunting and atmospheric theme song perfectly captures the tone of the film, which marked Daniel Craig's final appearance as 007. "No Time to Die" is a departure from traditional Bond themes, with its brooding melodies, introspective lyrics, and Eilish's signature vocals. The song explores themes of betrayal, loss, and sacrifice, adding a layer of emotional depth to the action-packed narrative of the film.

Eilish and O'Connell's songwriting is masterful, creating a song that is both contemporary and timeless. The song's arrangement is sparse yet impactful, allowing Eilish's vocals to take center stage. The use of orchestral elements adds a touch of classic Bond flair, while the song's overall tone is distinctly modern. "No Time to Die" is a song that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, its haunting melody and evocative lyrics leaving a lasting impression. The song's success is a testament to Eilish and O'Connell's talent and their ability to infuse the Bond franchise with their unique artistic vision. The song's impact extends beyond the film, becoming a chart-topping hit and solidifying Eilish's status as a global superstar. Its nomination for Best Original Song is a well-deserved recognition of its artistry and its contribution to the Bond legacy. The song's ability to capture the emotional complexity of the film is a testament to its power, making it a standout nominee in the category. Guys, "No Time to Die" is a perfect example of how a song can elevate a film and leave a lasting impact on audiences. The song reflects the weight of Bond's past and the uncertainty of his future, adding depth and complexity to his character.

"Somehow You Do" from Four Good Days

Another nominee from Four Good Days, "Somehow You Do," performed by Reba McEntire, offers a different perspective on the themes of hope and resilience. While "Down to Joy" delves into the darker aspects of addiction, "Somehow You Do" focuses on the unwavering strength and determination of those who are fighting to overcome adversity. Reba McEntire's powerful vocals and the song's uplifting melody create a sense of optimism and encouragement, reminding us that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, it is possible to find a way forward.

Diane Warren's songwriting once again shines through, crafting a song that is both heartfelt and inspiring. The lyrics speak of the importance of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering support of loved ones. The song's arrangement is classic and timeless, with McEntire's vocals taking center stage. "Somehow You Do" is a song that resonates with anyone who has faced adversity, offering a message of hope and encouragement. Its nomination for Best Original Song is a testament to its power and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The song's uplifting message and McEntire's heartfelt performance make it a standout nominee, showcasing the transformative power of music to inspire and uplift. "Somehow You Do" complements "Down to Joy" perfectly, offering a balanced perspective on the themes of addiction and recovery. The song's message of hope and resilience is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, it is possible to find a way to move forward.

These amazing songs truly elevated the films they were in and gave us some unforgettable musical moments. Each nominee brought something special to the table, making the Best Original Song category one of the most exciting to watch! Can't wait to see who takes home the Oscar!