The 2024 Oscars are set to be a star-studded affair, with some of the biggest names in the music industry vying for top honors in the original song and original score categories. Among the nominees are Diane Warren, Mark Ronson, Andrew Wyatt, Billie Eilish, and Finneas O'Connell, all of whom have had previous success at the awards.
Warren, a veteran songwriter, is hoping to finally take home her first Oscar win with her song 'The Fire Inside' from the film 'Flamin' Hot.' This marks her 15th nomination, and she is thrilled to be recognized among the best in the industry. Ronson and Wyatt, who previously won in 2019 for their song 'Shallow' from 'A Star is Born,' are nominated for their work on the 'Barbie' soundtrack with the song 'I'm Just Ken.' Eilish and O'Connell, who won last year for their James Bond theme 'No Time to Die,' are also nominated for a song from the 'Barbie' soundtrack titled 'What Was I Made For?'
While the 'Barbie' soundtrack seems to be dominating the original song category, the original score category showcases a diverse range of talent. Laura Karpman, at 64 years old, has received her first Oscar nomination for her work on 'American Fiction.' Jerskin Fendrix, a newcomer to scoring films, also earned his first nomination with 'Poor Things.' Another notable nomination in this category is the posthumous recognition of Robbie Robertson for his score on 'Killers of the Flower Moon.'
In the animated short category, the film 'WAR IS OVER! Inspired by the Music of John and Yoko' has caught the attention of the Academy. This entry, created by writer/director Dave Mullins and producer Brad Booker, aims to bring John and Yoko's anti-war, peace movement back into focus.
The nominees have expressed their excitement and gratitude following the announcement. Warren, who jokingly mentioned that her number of nominations has caught up to her emotional age, acknowledged the significance of being chosen among the best in the industry. Ronson, on the other hand, was on a plane when he found out about his nomination and had to contain his excitement due to his sleeping daughter beside him. Batiste, who won in 2020 for his work on 'Soul,' thanked the Academy and shared the personal story behind his nominated song. Eilish and O'Connell, truly honored to be recognized alongside respected songwriters, expressed their gratitude to the Academy and their fans.
For Göransson, who previously won for his 'Black Panther' score, the nomination holds a special place because of his collaboration with director Chris Nolan and the emotional depth he had to convey. Fendrix, still reeling from the surreal nature of his first-time nomination and scoring a film, plans to celebrate with a peaceful walk in the woods. Karpman, who has spent her life in music, was overcome with emotion upon receiving her first nomination and emphasized the deep connection she felt with jazz, which was evident in her nominated score. Scorsese paid tribute to the late Robbie Robertson, expressing his regret that Robertson couldn't witness the recognition of his work.
As the date of the 2024 Oscars draws near, all eyes will be on these talented musicians and composers as they compete for the coveted awards. With strong competition in both the original song and original score categories, it promises to be a night filled with unforgettable performances and well-deserved recognition of exceptional talent in the world of film music.
