Retro Spotlight: Celebrating Iconic Winners and Notable Nominees of the Best Original Song Oscar

This article revisits the celebrated winners and top contenders of the 90th Academy Awards for Best Original Song. It explores the stories behind songs like "Remember Me," "Mighty River," and "This Is Me," highlighting their impact on cinema and culture. Discover the artists, the songs' significance, and their lasting legacy in this detailed review of Hollywood’s musical history. Perfect for film and music enthusiasts, it emphasizes how these songs define moments of artistic excellence at the Oscars.

Retro Spotlight: Celebrating Iconic Winners and Notable Nominees of the Best Original Song Oscar

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Film fans worldwide often recall the unforgettable moments of the 90th Academy Awards, held on March 4, 2018. Among the highlights of that ceremony was the recognition of outstanding musical talents behind some of the year’s most memorable original songs. For aficionados of cinematic music, the Best Original Song category is a focal point that blends the worlds of film and music seamlessly. This segment has historically celebrated songs that elevate films and remain etched in audience memories long after the credits roll.

The event's crowning moment was Disney's animated film Coco clinching the award for the song "Remember Me." Crafted by talented songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, this emotionally resonant melody not only brought home the Oscar but also marked a significant milestone in their illustrious careers. This victory underscored the lasting power of film music, demonstrating how a well-written song can transcend the screen to become a cultural phenomenon. Although the glamour of the Oscars might fade with time, the melodies tied to this event continue to influence listeners and inspire artists worldwide. Such songs carry stories of hope, nostalgia, and emotion that resonate across generations.

Let’s take a comprehensive journey through the winners and notable contenders of the 90th Academy Award for Best Original Song. This exploration sheds light on the diverse musical talents that have graced the Oscar stage and highlights the impact of these songs on cinema and popular culture.

Celebrating the Champion: "Remember Me"

Origins and Impact

"Remember Me" was created by the dynamic duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, renowned for their work across multiple Disney projects. Released in conjunction with the animated blockbuster Coco on November 10, 2017, this song quickly gained popularity for its heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody. Designed to serve as a lullaby and a nostalgic homage to loved ones, the song's versatility allows it to connect emotionally with listeners of all ages.

Disney’s global reach significantly contributed to "Remember Me"'s fame, amplifying its presence through various media, including YouTube, streaming platforms, and live performances. The song’s emotional depth and beautiful composition led it to be nominated for other prestigious awards such as the Critics Choice Movie Awards and eventually secure the Oscar for Best Original Song. Its triumph reflected not only artistic excellence but also the masterful integration of music within storytelling, elevating the film’s overall impact.

Notable Contenders Nearing Victory: The Runners-up

Mighty River

"Love is the answer." — "Mighty River" is a soulful track you'll find on the soundtrack of the 2017 film Mudbound. The song was shared widely on Instagram, resonating with audiences through its powerful lyrics and heartfelt delivery.

Performed by Mary J. Blige, this R&B ballad was released in 2017 as part of the film’s soundtrack, receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards recognition. Its nomination for the Golden Globe highlighted its excellence, while its chart performance reinforced its popularity. The song’s soulful composition and poignant message made it a standout, showcasing Blige’s vocal prowess and emotional depth, consistently engaging audiences and critics alike.

Mystery Of Love

— "Call me by your name #callmebyyourname #mysteryoflove"

Posted on Instagram, this exquisite song was performed by Sufjan Stevens and produced by Thomas Bartlett. Released on December 1, 2017, it featured prominently in the critically acclaimed film "Call Me by Your Name." The song’s delicate melody and intimate lyrics helped it gain widespread recognition, topping charts such as the US Billboard Hot Rock Songs.

Its popularity was buoyed by the song’s emotional resonance, which struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. The track earned multiple nominations, including for the Critics’ Choice Awards, and became known for its ability to evoke profound feelings of longing and nostalgia. The combination of lyrical tenderness and cinematic relevance cemented "Mystery Of Love" as one of the standout songs of its year.

Stand Up For Something

Featured in the 2017 film Marshall, "Stand Up For Something" is more than just a song; it’s an anthem of activism. Penned by Lonnie and Diane and produced by Kyle Townsend, the track was performed by singers Andra Day and rapper Common. Its release coincided with the film’s narrative, which centers around a landmark civil rights case, amplifying its message of justice and resilience.

The song gained considerable acclaim, earning nominations across top award platforms like the Grammy, Critics’ Choice, and Black Reel Awards. Its powerful message and compelling performance led to recognition at Hollywood Film Awards and Satellite Awards, further solidifying its role as a song with social significance. "Stand Up For Something" exemplifies how film music can serve as a catalyst for social change and inspire audiences worldwide.

This Is Me: The Empowerment Anthem

"The Greatest Showman" brought to life a rousing, energetic track titled "This Is Me," released on October 26, 2017. Crafted by the talented songwriting duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, this song became an instant hit, topping charts in multiple countries and climbing the US Billboard Hot 100. Its empowering lyrics celebrate individuality and acceptance, resonating across diverse audiences.

The track’s commercial success was matched by critical recognition, including winning the Golden Globe for Best Original Song and earning nominations for Critics’ Choice Awards. "This Is Me" has become more than just a song from a film—it’s an anthem embraced worldwide to promote self-confidence and resilience. Its vibrant energy and heartfelt message continue to inspire millions, securing its place as a modern musical icon.