Oscars 2025: All the Performances at This Year’s Show; From Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s Soulful Rendition to Queen Latifah’s Tribute to Quincy Jones

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Despite skipping the typical live performances for Best Original Song nominees at the 97th Academy Awards, music still played a significant role during the event. Spectacular numbers, such as those inspired by “Wicked”, the James Bond series, and a tribute to the iconic Quincy Jones, made the ceremony an unforgettable musical experience. This recap highlights some of the standout performances from Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s breathtaking medley to Queen Latifah’s lively tribute – the best and worst acts of the night.

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s Wicked-Inspired Opening

The Oscars began spectacularly as Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stars of Wicked, performed a captivating medley of songs inspired by The Wizard of Oz. Grande, resplendent in a ruby-red dress, initiated with a tender and emotional rendition of Over the Rainbow. Subsequently, Erivo, adorned in a flowing white gown, took over with Home from The Wiz. However, the undeniable highlight occurred when these impressive vocalists united for Defying Gravity. Their eyes locked, hands intertwined, they ascended through the musical’s most recognized anthem. The show reached its climax when Erivo was raised on a platform for an awe-inspiring finale, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.

James Bond Medley: Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye Take on 007 Classics

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v86SRej0VPE

As a homage to the James Bond series and its long-term producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, three modern musicians reinterpreted iconic Bond theme songs. Lisa from Blackpink offered a seductive yet controlled version of Live and Let Die, while Doja Cat stunned with a dramatic interpretation of Shirley Bassey’s Diamonds Are Forever, backed by rotating laser effects. British singer Raye delivered a forceful rendition of Skyfall, though her performance was often compared to Adele’s 2013 Oscar-winning original. Despite the passion shown by all artists, some viewers felt that the tribute fell short of the star quality demonstrated by previous Bond performers, leaving them yearning for more impact.

Queen Latifah’s Tribute to Quincy Jones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IePkVBN8Yj8

In a tribute to a tribute-worthy icon, Queen Latifah brought life and zest to the Oscars stage with an energetic rendition of “Ease on Down the Road” from “The Wiz,” honoring the late Quincy Jones. The performance, introduced by Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, showcased Latifah in a stunning silver cape, leading a vibrant troupe of dancers. Notable figures like Colman Domingo, Ariana Grande, and Cynthia Erivo participated, amplifying the joyous ambiance. However, some felt that the tribute might have been too brief for a figure as influential as Quincy Jones in both music and film industries.

Even though there were no performances for the Best Original Song category at the Oscars 2025, the musical highlights of the event still resonated with great melodies and heartfelt emotions. The night’s tributes ranged from enchanting Broadway numbers to poignant film throwbacks, demonstrating that the bond between music and cinema continues to hold immense power.

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2025-03-03 08:22