Oscar's 2020: Best Original Songs - The Complete List!
The Original Song Oscar is one of the most anticipated awards each year, celebrating the magic that happens when music and film collide. In 2020, the nominees delivered a diverse range of sounds and stories, making it a particularly memorable year for music lovers. Let's take a closer look at the nominees and the ultimate winner, exploring what made these songs so special and why they resonated with audiences and the Academy alike.
The Nominees: A Symphony of Sounds
The 2020 Oscars featured an impressive lineup of nominees for Best Original Song, each bringing its unique flavor to the cinematic landscape. These songs weren't just catchy tunes; they were integral parts of their respective films, enhancing the storytelling and emotional impact. Let's dive into each of these nominated masterpieces:
"I Can't Let You Throw Yourself Away" - Toy Story 4
Randy Newman, a legend in film scoring and songwriting, added another gem to his illustrious career with "I Can't Let You Throw Yourself Away" from Toy Story 4. The song perfectly encapsulates the heartwarming and sometimes melancholic themes of the film.
Newman's ability to write from the perspective of a toy grappling with existential questions is simply remarkable. The lyrics are poignant, reflecting the movie's core message of friendship, loyalty, and finding purpose. The melody is classic Newman – catchy yet emotionally resonant, making it a standout track in the Toy Story saga.
What makes this song truly shine is its ability to speak to both children and adults. Kids appreciate the fun and playful nature, while adults connect with the deeper themes of aging, relevance, and the fear of being forgotten. The arrangement is deceptively simple, allowing the lyrics and Newman's distinctive voice to take center stage. It's a masterclass in songwriting, proving that sometimes the most profound messages are delivered in the simplest forms.
Newman's long history with the Toy Story franchise adds an extra layer of nostalgia and emotional weight to the song. His previous contributions have become iconic, and "I Can't Let You Throw Yourself Away" seamlessly fits into that legacy. It’s a testament to his consistency and his understanding of the characters and their world.
"(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again" - Rocketman
A vibrant and energetic collaboration between Elton John and Bernie Taupin, "(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again" from Rocketman captured the spirit of the iconic musician's journey to self-acceptance. This song is an upbeat anthem that celebrates overcoming adversity and embracing oneself, flaws and all.
The song’s infectious energy is undeniable, with Elton John's signature piano riffs and powerful vocals driving the track forward. Bernie Taupin's lyrics are honest and vulnerable, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of Elton's life. The combination of their talents creates a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
What sets "(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again" apart is its authenticity. It doesn't shy away from the darker moments in Elton John's story but instead uses them as a foundation for a message of hope and resilience. The song is a reminder that it's okay to stumble and make mistakes, as long as you're willing to pick yourself up and keep moving forward.
The song’s inclusion in Rocketman is particularly impactful, as it underscores the film's themes of self-discovery and redemption. It's a moment of pure joy and catharsis, as Elton finally learns to accept and love himself. The song’s message is powerful and inspiring, making it a deserving nominee for the Best Original Song Oscar.
"Into the Unknown" - Frozen 2
Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the dynamic duo behind the original Frozen soundtrack, returned with "Into the Unknown" for Frozen 2. This powerful ballad explores themes of destiny, courage, and the allure of the unknown.
Idina Menzel's vocals are, as always, breathtaking, conveying a sense of both vulnerability and determination. The lyrics are evocative and mysterious, hinting at a hidden world waiting to be discovered. The melody is soaring and epic, perfectly capturing the grand scale of the film's adventure.
"Into the Unknown" stands out for its complex arrangement and its use of vocal harmonies. The song builds gradually, starting with a quiet and introspective verse before exploding into a full-blown power ballad. The use of the Sami vocalizations adds an element of authenticity and cultural richness to the song.
The song's message of embracing the unknown resonates with audiences of all ages. It encourages listeners to step outside their comfort zones and pursue their dreams, even when faced with uncertainty. The song’s placement in the film is crucial, as it marks a turning point in Elsa's journey of self-discovery. It's a moment of empowerment and liberation, as she finally embraces her destiny.
"Stand Up" - Harriet
"Stand Up," performed by Cynthia Erivo, who also starred as Harriet Tubman in the biopic Harriet, is a powerful anthem of resistance and hope. The song honors the legacy of Harriet Tubman and the countless others who fought for freedom and equality.
Erivo's vocals are nothing short of extraordinary, conveying a sense of strength, resilience, and unwavering determination. The lyrics are direct and impactful, speaking to the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought against oppression. The melody is uplifting and inspiring, encouraging listeners to stand up for what they believe in.
What makes "Stand Up" so compelling is its ability to connect the past with the present. The song is not just a tribute to Harriet Tubman but also a call to action for contemporary audiences. It reminds us that the fight for justice and equality is far from over and that we all have a role to play in creating a better world.
The song’s inclusion in Harriet is particularly poignant, as it underscores the film's themes of courage, perseverance, and the importance of standing up for what is right. It's a moment of collective empowerment, as the audience is reminded of the power of unity and the ability to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
"I'm Standing With You" - Breakthrough
Diane Warren, a prolific songwriter with numerous Oscar nominations, penned "I'm Standing With You" for the film Breakthrough. Chrissy Metz delivers a heartfelt performance of this inspiring ballad about faith, hope, and the power of community.
Metz's vocals are warm and comforting, conveying a sense of empathy and compassion. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, speaking to the importance of standing by one another in times of need. The melody is uplifting and hopeful, reminding listeners that they are not alone.
"I'm Standing With You" stands out for its universal message of support and solidarity. The song is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we can find strength in community and that by standing together, we can overcome any challenge. The arrangement is simple and understated, allowing the lyrics and Metz's vocals to take center stage.
The song’s inclusion in Breakthrough is particularly impactful, as it underscores the film's themes of faith, hope, and the power of prayer. It's a moment of collective healing, as the characters come together to support one another through a difficult time. The song’s message is timeless and universal, making it a deserving nominee for the Best Original Song Oscar.
And the Winner Is...
(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again" - Rocketman
In a truly memorable moment, Elton John and Bernie Taupin took home the Oscar for Best Original Song for "(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again." This marked a significant milestone in their legendary partnership, solidifying their place in music history. The win was not just a recognition of the song's quality but also a celebration of their enduring friendship and creative collaboration.
Elton John's acceptance speech was heartfelt and emotional, expressing his gratitude to Bernie Taupin and acknowledging the importance of self-acceptance. He spoke about the challenges he faced in his life and how music helped him to overcome them. The moment was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and its ability to heal and inspire.
Bernie Taupin, ever the wordsmith, delivered a witty and insightful speech, highlighting the unique dynamic of their songwriting partnership. He emphasized the importance of honesty and vulnerability in their work and how their songs have resonated with audiences around the world.
The win for "(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again" was a victory for authenticity and self-expression. The song’s message of embracing oneself, flaws and all, resonated with audiences who have struggled with their own identities and insecurities. It was a reminder that it's okay to be different and that true happiness comes from accepting yourself for who you are.
The song’s success also served as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration. Elton John and Bernie Taupin’s partnership has spanned decades, and their ability to create timeless music together is a testament to their mutual respect and creative synergy. Their win was a celebration of their legacy and a reminder that the best art often comes from collaboration and shared vision.
The Lasting Impact
The Original Song Oscar in 2020 was more than just an award ceremony; it was a celebration of the power of music to tell stories, evoke emotions, and inspire change. The nominated songs, and the ultimate winner, left a lasting impact on audiences, reminding us of the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the human spirit.
These songs continue to be listened to and loved, reminding us of the films they accompanied and the emotions they evoked. They serve as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect us all.
So, guys, whether you're a fan of ballads, anthems, or soulful melodies, the Original Song Oscar nominees from 2020 offered something for everyone. These songs are a testament to the magic that happens when music and film come together, creating unforgettable moments that stay with us long after the credits roll. Keep listening, keep feeling, and keep celebrating the power of music!