Oscar Nominated Songs 2023: Full List & Details

Hey music lovers! The 2023 Oscars were a night to remember, and of course, the Best Original Song category always brings some serious star power. So, you're probably here because you want the lowdown on all the amazing tracks that were up for the award. Well, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into the melodious world of the Oscar-nominated songs of 2023, giving you all the details you crave. Whether you're a die-hard cinephile, a music enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good awards show, this is your ultimate guide. We’re going to break down each song, the movie it featured in, and why it captured the Academy's attention.

The Nominees: A Symphony of Sounds

The Oscar-nominated songs represent a diverse range of genres and styles, showcasing the incredible talent of songwriters and performers from around the globe. Each song tells a unique story, adding depth and emotion to the films they accompany. Let's take a closer look at each nominee:

"Naatu Naatu" from RRR

"Naatu Naatu" from the blockbuster RRR was not just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon. Composed by M. M. Keeravani, with lyrics by Chandrabose, this high-energy dance number took the world by storm. Its infectious beat and vibrant choreography made it a global sensation, transcending language barriers and captivating audiences of all ages. The song's win at the Oscars was a historic moment for Indian cinema, marking the first time an Indian song had ever won in this category. The sheer exuberance and joyful spirit of "Naatu Naatu" made it an undeniable crowd-pleaser, and its catchy tune ensured it stayed stuck in everyone's heads long after the credits rolled. Beyond its entertainment value, "Naatu Naatu" also celebrated Indian culture and heritage, showcasing the country's rich musical traditions to a global audience. The song's success served as a reminder of the power of music to unite people and transcend cultural boundaries. It's a vibrant, energetic celebration of Indian culture, and the Academy clearly couldn't resist its charm. The song's composers, M.M. Keeravani and Chandrabose, delivered a masterpiece that resonated globally. The song isn't just catchy; it's a cultural statement, reflecting the vibrant spirit of India. The choreography is infectious, and the sheer joy emanating from the performers is palpable. The song’s win marked a historic moment, being the first Indian song to clinch the Best Original Song Oscar. It’s a testament to the universality of music and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. What made “Naatu Naatu” stand out was its raw energy and celebratory vibe. It wasn't just a song; it was an experience, a visual and auditory spectacle that left audiences breathless. The song's success was a victory for Indian cinema, showcasing the country's rich musical heritage on a global stage. It proved that music has the power to break down barriers and unite people from all walks of life.

"Lift Me Up" from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

"Lift Me Up," performed by Rihanna, from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, served as a poignant tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman. Written by Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Ludwig Göransson, the song is a soulful ballad that explores themes of loss, hope, and resilience. Rihanna's emotive vocals perfectly capture the vulnerability and strength of the characters in the film, creating a deeply moving and unforgettable listening experience. "Lift Me Up" resonated with audiences around the world, becoming an anthem of healing and remembrance. The song's simple yet powerful lyrics spoke to the universal human experience of grief, offering solace and comfort to those who had lost loved ones. Its inclusion in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever added another layer of emotional depth to the film, enhancing its themes of family, community, and legacy. The song is a beautiful and emotional tribute. Rihanna's vocals are hauntingly beautiful, and the lyrics are incredibly moving. It's a song that stays with you long after you've heard it. The song is a powerful tribute to Chadwick Boseman and a moving reflection on loss and resilience. Rihanna's performance is both delicate and powerful, adding layers of emotion to an already poignant film. The song is a testament to the healing power of music, offering solace and hope in the face of grief. This song marked Rihanna's return to music after a hiatus and was immediately embraced for its raw emotion and heartfelt delivery. It’s a touching tribute to Chadwick Boseman, weaving themes of grief and hope into a soulful experience. The song’s simple yet profound lyrics, combined with Rihanna's emotive voice, created a powerful connection with listeners. It's a reminder of the enduring impact of Black Panther and the importance of honoring those we've lost. The collaboration between Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Ludwig Göransson resulted in a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

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

"This Is A Life" from the mind-bending Everything Everywhere All at Once is a collaboration between Son Lux, Mitski, and David Byrne. It’s an eclectic and experimental track that perfectly encapsulates the film's chaotic and surreal nature. The song blends elements of art-pop, electronic music, and world music, creating a unique and unforgettable sonic landscape. "This Is A Life" reflects the film's themes of identity, choice, and the interconnectedness of all things. Its complex and layered arrangement mirrors the film's intricate narrative, inviting listeners to explore the depths of their own consciousness. The song's inclusion in Everything Everywhere All at Once added another layer of artistic depth to the film, enhancing its themes of existentialism and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The track is as quirky and thought-provoking as the film itself. With contributions from Son Lux, Mitski, and David Byrne, it's a unique blend of sounds that captures the movie's eccentric spirit. The song is as inventive and genre-bending as the film. It’s a sonic journey that reflects the film's exploration of identity, choice, and the interconnectedness of everything. The collaboration between Son Lux, Mitski, and David Byrne results in a track that is both challenging and rewarding. The song’s experimental nature perfectly complements the film's unconventional storytelling. Its lyrics delve into the complexities of existence, inviting listeners to contemplate their place in the universe. The song is a wild ride that mirrors the movie's mind-bending plot. The song’s unique blend of musical styles perfectly complements the film's themes of chaos and interconnectedness. It’s a testament to the power of music to enhance storytelling and create a truly immersive cinematic experience. It reflects the film’s chaotic yet beautiful message, making it a standout nominee. The song's ability to capture the film's essence made it a memorable and deserving nominee.

"Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman

"Applause" from Tell It Like a Woman, with music and lyrics by Diane Warren, is a powerful anthem celebrating women's resilience and strength. The song's soaring melody and inspiring lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their inner power and overcome adversity. "Applause" resonated with audiences around the world, becoming a symbol of female empowerment. Its message of self-acceptance and perseverance struck a chord with women of all ages and backgrounds. The song's inclusion in Tell It Like a Woman added another layer of emotional depth to the film, enhancing its themes of female solidarity and the importance of telling women's stories. Diane Warren's songwriting prowess shines through in this uplifting ballad. It’s an anthem of empowerment and resilience, celebrating the strength of women. The song’s message of self-acceptance and perseverance resonates deeply, making it a powerful and inspiring listen. Warren's ability to craft melodies that soar and lyrics that uplift is on full display. The song is a testament to the power of music to inspire change and promote gender equality. The song is a celebration of female strength and resilience. Diane Warren's powerful songwriting shines through, creating an anthem of empowerment. The song’s message of self-acceptance and perseverance makes it a truly inspiring listen. It's a reminder of the importance of telling women's stories and celebrating their achievements. The song is a testament to Warren's enduring ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It is a classic power ballad that highlights themes of female empowerment. The song's straightforward message and catchy tune made it an accessible and relatable nominee.

"Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick

"Hold My Hand" from Top Gun: Maverick, performed by Lady Gaga, is a soaring power ballad that evokes feelings of nostalgia and heroism. Written by Lady Gaga and BloodPop, the song captures the film's themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Lady Gaga's passionate vocals and the song's sweeping orchestral arrangement create a sense of grandeur and emotion, making it a perfect fit for the high-flying action of Top Gun: Maverick. "Hold My Hand" became an instant hit, topping charts around the world and solidifying Lady Gaga's status as a pop icon. The song's message of hope and resilience resonated with audiences of all ages, inspiring them to believe in themselves and overcome any obstacles in their path. Its inclusion in Top Gun: Maverick added another layer of emotional depth to the film, enhancing its themes of patriotism and the importance of honoring those who serve. The song captures the essence of the film's themes of courage and camaraderie. Lady Gaga's powerful vocals and the song's soaring melody create a sense of epic adventure. The song is a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary pop, making it a crowd-pleaser. The song is a soaring ballad that perfectly complements the film's themes of courage, sacrifice, and friendship. Lady Gaga's performance is both powerful and heartfelt, adding layers of emotion to an already thrilling film. The song is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Top Gun franchise and the power of music to evoke strong emotions. The song became an instant classic, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. It’s a testament to Lady Gaga's ability to craft songs that are both timeless and contemporary. The song's message of hope and resilience resonates deeply, making it an anthem for overcoming adversity. It’s a soaring, emotional power ballad that fits perfectly within the Top Gun universe. The song’s themes of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie resonate deeply, making it a memorable addition to the film. It's the kind of song that makes you want to pump your fist in the air and believe in the power of heroism. The song's classic sound and universal themes made it a strong contender.

Why These Songs? The Academy's Perspective

The Academy Awards, guys, are all about celebrating excellence, and the Best Original Song category is no exception. The songs nominated weren't just catchy tunes; they were integral parts of their respective films. They amplified the emotional impact, deepened the narrative, and, in some cases, became cultural touchstones. The Academy looks for songs that not only stand alone as great pieces of music but also enhance the overall cinematic experience. Songs that tell a story, evoke emotion, and seamlessly integrate into the film's narrative are highly valued. The originality and artistry of the songwriting are also key considerations. The Academy seeks out songs that push boundaries, experiment with new sounds, and offer fresh perspectives. The impact of the song on popular culture is another important factor. Songs that resonate with audiences, spark conversations, and leave a lasting impression are more likely to be recognized. In short, the Academy seeks out songs that are both artistically brilliant and culturally significant.

The Winner Takes It All: "Naatu Naatu"'s Triumph

As we all know, "Naatu Naatu" deservedly took home the Oscar. Its win was a victory for international cinema and a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries. The song's infectious energy, vibrant choreography, and celebration of Indian culture made it a global phenomenon. Its win at the Oscars was a watershed moment, paving the way for more international artists to be recognized on the world stage. The success of "Naatu Naatu" proves that music knows no borders and that great art can come from anywhere in the world. The song's win was not just a personal triumph for the artists involved, but also a collective victory for Indian cinema and the global music community. It served as a reminder that music has the power to unite people and break down barriers. The win was a momentous occasion, highlighting the globalization of music and cinema. It demonstrated that songs from different cultures can resonate with audiences worldwide. The victory of "Naatu Naatu" underscored the importance of diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. It sent a message that talent and creativity should be celebrated regardless of where they come from. The song's win was a testament to the power of music to bridge cultures and unite people from all walks of life.

Beyond the Awards: The Lasting Impact

Even though only one song could win, each of the Oscar-nominated songs left a lasting impact. They sparked conversations, topped charts, and became part of the cultural zeitgeist. These songs weren't just background music; they were integral parts of the films they accompanied, enhancing the storytelling and adding emotional depth. They reminded us of the power of music to connect us, inspire us, and move us. These songs will continue to be enjoyed for years to come, serving as a reminder of the magic of cinema and the power of music. They've become part of our collective memory, forever associated with the films they graced. They've inspired countless artists and aspiring musicians, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and share their talents with the world. These songs have demonstrated the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries and unite people from all walks of life. They've reminded us that music is a universal language that can speak to the deepest parts of our souls. So, let's continue to celebrate these incredible songs and the artists who created them. They've enriched our lives and made the world a more beautiful place.

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look at the Oscar-nominated songs of 2023. Each song brought something unique to the table, contributing to the magic of cinema. Whether you're still humming "Naatu Naatu" or shedding a tear to "Lift Me Up," these songs are a testament to the power of music in film. Keep listening, keep supporting these amazing artists, and keep enjoying the beautiful world of movie music!