The 2025 Oscar nominations spotlight a blend of tradition and innovation in music. Diane Warren has secured her 16th nomination for Best Original Song with "The Journey" from The Six Triple Eight, placing her among the category's most-nominated songwriters. This marks her eighth consecutive nomination, equaling the record held by Sammy Cahn from the 1950s and '60s.
French duo Clément Ducol and Camille made history with two nominations for "El Mal" and "Mi Camino," both from Emilia Pérez. They are the first songwriting team to achieve this feat since 2017. Additionally, Jacques Audiard, the film’s director and co-lyricist, became the first person nominated for both directing and songwriting for the same film.
This year also extends the streak of non-English songs receiving nominations, continuing a trend seen with "Naatu Naatu" and "Dos Oruguitas" in previous years. Elton John earned his fifth Oscar nod for "Never Too Late," collaborating with Bernie Taupin, Brandi Carlile, and Andrew Watt.
Despite the excitement, notable exclusions include Hans Zimmer, whose Dune: Part Two score was ruled ineligible for relying on pre-existing music. Lin-Manuel Miranda, shortlisted for "Tell Me It’s You" from Mufasa: The Lion King, was also left out, prolonging his wait for EGOT status.
With categories brimming with surprises and competition, this year’s Oscars promise a dynamic celebration of musical storytelling.
