Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Society of Composers and Lyricists Make Plea to Oscars

LanKS
LanKS

The 2025 Academy Awards has sparked fervent discussions among music enthusiasts and industry professionals, particularly regarding its decision to focus on honoring songwriters without featuring live performances from best original song nominees. This change has not been well-received by the music community, prompting the Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL) to step forward in opposition. The SCL, led by its president Ashley Irwin, has made a formal appeal to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to reconsider their decision and bring back live performances of the nominated songs during the award telecast.

The controversy centers around the idea that live performances are essential for showcasing the artistic contributions of songwriters, offering them an opportunity to display their work beyond the confines of the movie soundtrack. According to Ashley Irwin, the decision to eliminate this segment from the Oscars signifies a broader devaluation of music and its creators. This year’s nominees are “El Mal” from Emilia Pérez, “The Journey” from The Six Triple Eight, “Like a Bird” from Sing Sing, “Mi Camino” from Emilia Pérez, and “Never Too Late” from Elton John: Never Too Late. The absence of these live presentations is perceived as missing a crucial element of the Oscars' grandeur and a rare occasion where songwriters are visibly acknowledged.

In an official letter obtained by Billboard, Irwin highlighted the pivotal role music plays in cinematic storytelling, stressing the need for live performances to maintain the tradition of recognizing the invaluable contribution of composers and lyricists. The proposed format shift aims to celebrate songwriters through more personal stories and reflections, and the Academy suggests that music will still play an integral role in other segments of the show. However, many argue that this does not suffice as a substitute for the power and emotional resonance of live musical performances.

The group is lobbying to get the live performance of nominated songs back in the award show. This segment traditionally involves robust participation from music enthusiasts, boosting audience ratings, and offering individual artists much-desired visibility and recognition. Notable past performers such as Elton John and H.E.R. exemplify the caliber of artists who bring their compositions to life on stage, capturing hearts and ensuring memorable moments during the telecast. Irwin emphasized that especially in times of adversity, such as the recent Los Angeles wildfires, music’s ability to uplift and inspire should be leveraged, not diminished.

As the airing of the Oscars draws nearer, the pressure on the Academy to reevaluate its stance grows. The conversation encapsulates broader industry tensions around recognizing artistic contributions in ways that ensure visibility and respect for all creative roles. The SCL's plea serves as a reminder of the foundational aspects that have long made the Oscars a prestigious event, and as the dialogue on this issue continues, it becomes evident that the music industry remains steadfast in its resolve to see songwriters celebrated in ways that include their live musical offerings.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Bad Company - Mick Ralphs Bad Company in concert at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia, America - 14 Jul 2013

Bad Company Guitarist Mick Ralphs Dies at 81

Mick Ralphs, a distinguished guitarist and songwriter, was at the heart of two of Britain’s seminal rock bands, Bad Company…

Masta Killa of Wu Tang Clan Lovebox Festival, Gunnersbury Park, London, UK - 13 Jul 2018

Wu-Tang Clan’s Masta Killa Says You Should Go Vegan in New PETA Spot

In a notable collaboration with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Masta Killa, a distinguished member of the…

LEFT PHOTO: Turnstile in concert at Under the K Bridge in Brooklyn, New York, USA - 05 Jun 2025 RIGHT PHOTO: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 Release, Los Angeles, California, USA - 08 May 2025

Turnstile Song in New Taco Bell Commercial Featuring Tony Hawk

Turnstile, the Baltimore-based hardcore punk outfit, has managed to blend high-energy music with mainstream marketing in their latest collaboration with…

JOHN LODGE of the Moody Blues takes the crowd back in time at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia on 6 March 2023..photo ©Jeff Moore JOHN LODGE of the Moody Blues takes the crowd back in time at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia on 6 March 2023., USA - 05 Mar 2023

John Lodge Extends Tour Into December

John Lodge, the esteemed bassist of the legendary rock band the Moody Blues, has announced an extension of his 2025…

Steven Van Zandt performs with Bruce Springsteen on Day 7 of American Express Presents BST Hyde Park on July 6, 2023 in London, United, Kingdom. (Photo by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media/Shutterstock) American Express presents BST Hyde Park, Day 7, London, UK - 06 Jul 2023

Steven Van Zandt Recovering After Emergency Surgery

Renowned guitarist and actor Steven Van Zandt recently underwent emergency surgery for appendicitis, forcing him to miss several upcoming performances…

Maroon 5 - Adam Levine Maroon 5 headlines the Grand Opening of New Hard Rock Live, Hollywood, Florida, Miami, USA - 05 Oct 2019

Maroon 5 New Album Announced & Arena Tour

Maroon 5 is set to make a significant return this summer with the announcement of their much-anticipated eighth studio album,…

Axl Rose and Angus Young ACDC in concert, Vienna, Austria - 19 May 2016

AC/DC Sets 2025 Homecoming Shows

AC/DC, the iconic powerhouse of rock music, is making waves again with their much-anticipated homecoming tour, titled “PWR UP.” Set…

Eric Clapton British Summer Time Hyde Park Festival Day 3 in London, UK - 08 Jul 2018

Eric Clapton Adds Ohio Show to Tour Schedule

Eric Clapton, the legendary guitarist, is set to make a notable return to the United States with a limited series…

Dolly Parton Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Show, Microsoft Theatrer, Los Angeles, California, USA - 05 Nov 2022 Dolly Parton wearing flesh colored gloves

Dolly Parton Sets Mini Vegas Residency

Dolly Parton’s recent announcement about her upcoming Las Vegas residency has created significant buzz in the entertainment world. Titled “Dolly:…