With the official Oscar nominations less than two months away, it’s time for a shortlist from the Academy. A shortlist is effectively a progress report for studios to track the success of their projects. Think of it as an “unofficially official” prediction list for the Oscar draft. Among the revealed categories was “Best Original Song,” where some 15 songs are competing for the Academy’s title of “best”. It’s a field packed full of hip-hop and R&B talent, with the likes of Beyonce, a Jay-Z/Kid Cudi combo, and much more.
Jay-Z vs. Beyonce?
Starting us off is Beyonce with her song “Be Alive”, featured in the Venus and Serena Williams biopic King Richard. Beyonce found herself on the shortlist last year as well, for her song “Spirit”, featured in 2020’s The Lion King.
Joining her in the competition is husband Jay-Z. Teaming up with Kid Cudi for their song “Guns Go Bang”, the two big names look to bring a win to the western The Harder They Fall. Should Jay find himself in the final list with Beyonce, it will be the first time in Oscar history that a couple has gone head-to-head for the title of Best Original Song.
Double Duty for Cudi
And Cudi’s got more. Turns out, you can enter a competition twice. A double nomination, if you will. Joining up with Ariana Grande, the two make The Shortlist, Vol. 1 with their song “Just Look Up”, for the satire sci-fi film Don’t Look Up.
The Best Song Champ Returns
However, the competition is far from decided. After all, there is a returning champ this year. Coming off her 2021 win, H.E.R. is back with “Automatic Woman”, featured in Halle Berry’s Bruised. H.E.R. won last year with “Fight for You”, bringing it home for Judas and The Black Messiah.
Turning up the Difficulty
Finally, we have Jennifer Hudson. She’s a vocal powerhouse. Her heaps of awards (musical and acting) speak for themselves. And now she’s up for Best Original Song with her “Here I Am (Singing My Way Home)” from her Aretha Franklin biopic Respect. J-Hud leads a sharp cast as Franklin and is also an executive producer of the film.
The field is packed and there can only be one winner this March. Who do you think has the best shot? Let us know by interacting with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!
