2021 Oscar: Best Original Song - The Winners & Nominees

The Academy Award for Best Original Song is one of the most anticipated categories every year. It celebrates the incredible artistry of songwriters who create music specifically for films, adding depth, emotion, and memorability to the cinematic experience. The 2021 Oscars were no exception, showcasing a diverse range of talent and musical styles. So, guys, let's dive into the nominees, the winner, and the overall impact of this prestigious award!

The Nominees for Best Original Song 2021

The 2021 Oscar nominations for Best Original Song were a vibrant mix of genres and voices, each contributing something unique to their respective films. From powerful anthems to soulful ballads, the nominees represented the best in songwriting for the year. Let's take a closer look at each of these remarkable songs:

"Husavik" - Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

"Husavik," performed by Will Ferrell and Molly Sandén (as My Marianne), was a surprising and heartwarming contender. Featured in the Netflix comedy Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, this song is an ode to the small Icelandic town of Husavik. Its charm lies in its genuine emotion and catchy melody, capturing the spirit of the film perfectly. The song’s blend of English and Icelandic lyrics added to its unique appeal, making it a memorable and endearing entry in the competition. The performance at the Oscars was a delightful tribute to the film, complete with whimsical staging and heartfelt delivery.

The song "Husavik" not only gained popularity for its role in the film but also for its authentic representation of Icelandic culture. The songwriters, Savan Kotecha, Fat Max Gsus, and Rickard Göransson, managed to create a piece that felt both comedic and deeply sincere. This balance is what made "Husavik" stand out and earned it a spot among the best original songs of the year. Its nomination was a testament to the power of music to transcend genres and connect with audiences on an emotional level.

"Fight for You" - Judas and the Black Messiah

"Fight for You," performed by H.E.R., was a powerful and poignant song from the film Judas and the Black Messiah. This track resonated deeply with its message of social justice and the fight for equality. H.E.R.’s soulful vocals, combined with the evocative lyrics, made it a standout nominee. The song captured the essence of the Black Panther movement and the struggles faced during that era, making it a compelling and timely piece. "Fight for You" was not just a song; it was a statement.

The collaboration between H.E.R., Tiara Thomas, and D'Mile resulted in a song that was both contemporary and reminiscent of the music from the film's setting. The blend of modern R&B with classic soul elements gave "Fight for You" a timeless quality. Its lyrics spoke to the ongoing battles for civil rights and the importance of standing up for what is right. This powerful message, combined with H.E.R.'s captivating performance, made "Fight for You" a significant contender and ultimately, the winner of the Oscar.

"Hear My Voice" - The Trial of the Chicago 7

"Hear My Voice," performed by Celeste, served as the emotional centerpiece of The Trial of the Chicago 7. The song’s haunting melody and Celeste’s captivating vocals perfectly complemented the film’s themes of protest and justice. The lyrics, co-written by Celeste and Daniel Pemberton, spoke to the importance of speaking out against injustice and the power of collective action. "Hear My Voice" was a stirring anthem that amplified the film’s message of hope and resistance. The song's impact was further heightened by its placement in the film, underscoring the emotional weight of the historical events depicted.

The collaboration between Celeste and Daniel Pemberton brought together a unique blend of musical talents. Celeste's soulful voice and Pemberton's evocative score created a song that was both powerful and deeply moving. "Hear My Voice" resonated with audiences due to its universal message of standing up for one's beliefs and the importance of making one's voice heard. Its nomination for Best Original Song was a recognition of its artistic merit and its ability to enhance the emotional impact of The Trial of the Chicago 7.

"Io Sì (Seen)" - The Life Ahead

"Io Sì (Seen)," performed by Laura Pausini, was the Italian-language entry from the film The Life Ahead. This song was a tender and heartfelt ballad that explored themes of empathy, acceptance, and the bonds between people. Pausini’s emotive vocals and the song’s simple yet powerful melody made it a standout. The lyrics, written by Diane Warren, Niccolò Agliardi, and Laura Pausini, conveyed a message of seeing and understanding those who are often overlooked by society. "Io Sì (Seen)" brought a touch of international flair to the nominations.

The song's impact was amplified by its use in The Life Ahead, a film that tells a story of unlikely friendship and mutual support. Laura Pausini's performance captured the essence of the film's themes, making "Io Sì (Seen)" a truly memorable and moving piece. Its nomination for Best Original Song was a testament to the power of music to transcend language barriers and connect with audiences on a universal level. The song's message of empathy and understanding resonated deeply, making it a significant contender in the category.

"Speak Now" - One Night in Miami

"Speak Now," performed by Leslie Odom Jr., was a soulful and inspiring song from the film One Night in Miami. This track celebrated the power of voice and the importance of speaking out for what is right. Odom Jr.’s smooth vocals and the song’s uplifting melody made it a standout. The lyrics, co-written by Leslie Odom Jr. and Sam Ashworth, reflected the film’s themes of civil rights and the responsibility of artists to use their platforms for change. "Speak Now" was a call to action, urging listeners to use their voices to make a difference.

The song's impact was heightened by its integration into One Night in Miami, a film that explores the conversations and debates between Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke. "Speak Now" captured the spirit of these discussions, emphasizing the importance of using one's platform to advocate for social justice. Leslie Odom Jr.'s performance was both powerful and nuanced, making the song a true highlight of the film. Its nomination for Best Original Song was a recognition of its artistic merit and its ability to inspire and uplift audiences.

The Winner: "Fight for You" - H.E.R.

The Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2021 was awarded to "Fight for You" from Judas and the Black Messiah. This win was not just a recognition of the song's musical excellence but also a celebration of its powerful message and cultural significance. H.E.R., along with co-writers Tiara Thomas and D'Mile, delivered a song that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Why "Fight for You" Won

"Fight for You" stood out for several reasons. Firstly, its message of social justice and the ongoing fight for equality was incredibly timely and relevant. The song captured the essence of the Black Panther movement and the struggles faced during that era, making it a poignant and impactful piece. Secondly, H.E.R.'s soulful vocals and the song's evocative lyrics created a powerful emotional connection with listeners. The blend of modern R&B with classic soul elements gave "Fight for You" a timeless quality that appealed to a wide audience. Finally, the song's integration into Judas and the Black Messiah enhanced its impact, making it an integral part of the film's narrative and emotional core. The win for "Fight for You" was a testament to the power of music to inspire change and promote social awareness.

The Significance of the Award

The Academy Award for Best Original Song is more than just a trophy; it’s a recognition of the artistry, creativity, and impact of music in film. Winning this award can significantly boost a songwriter's career, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations. It also brings attention to the film itself, further amplifying its message and reach. The 2021 nominations and the ultimate win for "Fight for You" highlighted the importance of music in telling stories and addressing social issues.

Impact on the Winners

For H.E.R., Tiara Thomas, and D'Mile, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song was a career-defining moment. It solidified their status as talented songwriters and performers, opening doors to new projects and collaborations. The win also brought increased visibility to their work, allowing them to reach a wider audience and amplify their message of social justice and equality. The award served as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and artistic vision. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of diverse voices in the music industry and the power of music to inspire change.

Impact on the Film Industry

The Best Original Song category often brings attention to films that might not otherwise receive as much recognition. The nominations and the ultimate winner can shine a spotlight on important stories and themes, encouraging audiences to engage with diverse perspectives and experiences. In the case of Judas and the Black Messiah, the win for "Fight for You" helped to further amplify the film's message about the Black Panther movement and the fight for civil rights. The award also underscored the importance of music in enhancing the emotional impact of films and creating a more immersive viewing experience. By recognizing and celebrating original songs, the Academy Awards contribute to the overall appreciation of music as an integral part of the filmmaking process.

Conclusion

The 2021 Oscar for Best Original Song was a celebration of musical talent and powerful storytelling. The nominees each brought something unique and valuable to the table, but it was "Fight for You" that ultimately resonated the most with the Academy. This win highlighted the importance of music in addressing social issues and the power of art to inspire change. Whether it was the catchy tunes of "Husavik", the emotional depth of "Io Sì (Seen)", or the call to action in "Speak Now", each nominated song contributed to a memorable year in film music. Guys, these songs continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world, proving that music is a powerful tool for storytelling and social commentary.