The Oscars are upon us! It was so much fun to listen to the five songs nominated for Best Original Song. Good luck to the nominees. Each song is remarkable, and it’s hard to choose a favourite.
Here are my mini reviews of each song.
*Dear Me from Diane Warren: Relentless;
Performed by Kesha
Music and Lyrics: Diane Warren
The music is Pop. The lyrics are heartfelt and profound, describing how things will get better and highlighting the importance of self-love. A letter to oneself is a timeless subject, and positive self-talk is essential for overcoming obstacles. The piano is soothing and complements the song’s story and message. Kesha’s voice is amazing, performing this song with great passion. She sings with incredible love, hope and determination. The richness is present in the music, lyrics and performance. It’s a beautiful piece, written with heart and soul.
*Golden from KPop Demon Hunters
Performed by EJAE (lead vocalist), Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami
Music and Lyrics: EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo and Teddy Park
The music is Electropop and K-pop. The lyrics are simplistic but meaningful. It’s an inspirational song about perseverance and determination. The team of writers did a great job creating this incredible positivity. The beat has a bold, upbeat energy that brings joy and hope. The writers and composers created a catchy tune, and EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami deliver an uplifting performance that embodies the core essence: being true to oneself and living unapologetically.
*I Lied To You from Sinners
Performed by Miles Caton as Sammie
Music and Lyrics: Raphael Saadiq & Ludwig Goransson
The music is Country and Folk. The beat, driven by guitar and banjo, is intense and signals a shift in mindset. This poetic song invites contemplation, a quality Raphael Saadiq & Ludwig Goransson achieved through their great writing. It’s heartbreaking and powerful, full of depth, saying so little but carrying so much meaning. Miles Caton (as Sammie) has an incredible voice, going from deep to occasionally hitting those high notes. He sings with great passion. It ends with a fantastic banjo-and-drums solo (in the soundtrack version).
*Sweet Dreams Of Joy from Viva Verdi!
Performed by Nicholas Pike
Music and Lyrics: Nicholas Pike
The music is Opera. The lyrics convey heartfelt spirituality with rich poetry and metaphors. Nicholas Pike’s voice is strong and passionate. He hits those high notes remarkably well, with a great vocal range. The composition is incredible, with great tonalities and fantastic piano playing. The song has a Classical music concert vibe.
*Train Dreams from Train Dreams
Performed by Nick Cave
Music: Nick Cave & Bryce Dessner
Lyrics: Nick Cave
The music is Folk. It starts with a horn and smoothly transitions into the beautiful piano music. It ends with a smooth fade-out. The lyrics are deep, poetic, and full of hope. The metaphors are rich and poetic with lovely imagery. The attention to detail is phenomenal. The pop culture references, including Elvis Presley, add heartfelt resonance. Nick Cave’s husky voice gives the song character and depth.
The 98th Academy Awards take place tomorrow at 7 pm Eastern Time. I look forward to watching it.