Shutterstock
A Night of Unforgettable Performances
The 97th Academy Awards delivered jaw-dropping performances that stole the spotlight. From powerhouse vocals to unexpected mashups, the night was packed with moments that had the audience on their feet.
Some acts left the audience in awe, while others sparked major conversations. Buckle up, we’re diving into the most unforgettable moments.
Depositphotos
Breaking Tradition
For the first time in forever, the Academy snubbed its own Best Song nominees by not featuring them during the show. Instead, they went rogue with a mix of tributes and special performances.
Some fans were thrilled, but others? Not so much. Either way, it made for an interesting shake-up.
imagepressagency/Depositphotos
Ariana Grande’s Soulful Rendition of ‘Over the Rainbow’
Ariana Grande took a break from belting Broadway hits to deliver a dreamy version of Over the Rainbow. She wore a sparkling red gown that was reminiscent of Dorothy’s ruby slippers, channeling old-Hollywood glam.
With soft, soaring vocals, she honored Judy Garland in a way that had the audience swooning. If there was ever a time to cry into your popcorn, this was it.
imagepressagency/Depositphotos
Cynthia Erivo’s Powerful ‘Home’ Performance
Following Grande, Cynthia Erivo once again proved she can out-sing just about anyone with her jaw-dropping take on Home from The Wiz. Her voice was absolutely unreal, leaving everyone in awe.
The drama of the performance? Off the charts. By the time she hit that final note, even the toughest critics in the room were on their feet.
imagepressagency/Depositphotos
Grande and Erivo Unite for ‘Defying Gravity’
The witches of Wicked teamed up for what they are destined to do, to remind us why this song is legendary. Ariana and Cynthia’s Defying Gravity was a vocal showdown in the best way possible finishing with Cynthia’s now-famous ending riff.
Harmonies? Flawless. Power notes? Goosebump-inducing. Broadway, take notes! this is how you do it.
PopularImages/Depositphotos
The James Bond Tribute
The Academy paid tribute to the iconic music of the James Bond franchise in honor of longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. The two received Honorary Oscars at the recent Governors Awards for their incredible contributions.
To mark the occasion, the tribute was done in style with a stunning lineup of performances. These performances were as bold and daring as 007 himself.
PopularImages/Depositphotos
Halle Berry Introduces Bond Tribute
Halle Berry, a former Bond girl herself, took the stage with undeniable elegance to introduce the Oscars’ tribute to James Bond music. She praised producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli as the “heart and soul” of the franchise, celebrating their legacy of “danger, style, and intrigue.”
Reflecting on the iconic themes that defined 007, Berry set the stage for a dazzling musical journey. The audience was in for a treat as the Bond tribute unfolded in full cinematic glory.
Jean_Nelson/Depositphotos
Margaret Qualley’s Dance Tribute to James Bond
Margaret Qualley kicked off the Bond tribute with a dance routine dripping in classic 007 cool. Dressed in a striking red gown, she moved with precision to the iconic James Bond Theme.
It was part spy thriller, part Dancing with the Stars, and somehow, it worked. The Substance star brought a fresh, unexpected twist to the night.
imagepressagency/Depositphotos
BLACKPINK’s Lisa Rocks ‘Live and Let Die’
Lisa made history as the first K-pop star to rock the Oscars stage. Lisa from BLACKPINK turned Paul McCartney’s Live and Let Die into a full-on rock spectacle.
Pyro? Check. Killer leather outfit? Check. Vocals that could shatter glass? Also, check. Somewhere, Roger Moore was probably nodding in approval.
imagepressagency/Depositphotos
Doja Cat’s Sultry ‘Diamonds Are Forever’
Doja Cat took Diamonds Are Forever and made it, well, hers. Strutting across the stage in a crystal-covered gown, she purred through the Bond classic with enough swagger to make Shirley Bassey proud.
It was sleek, it was sultry, and let’s be honest, very on brand. But she kept it real, admitting to a few shaky notes. Even with the nerves, she still delivered a moment dripping in glamour and attitude.
Jean_Nelson/Depositphotos
Raye’s Emotive ‘Skyfall’ Performance
Raye had the honor of closing the Bond tribute, and she made sure to leave a lasting impression. Returning to the stage, she delivered a stripped-down, emotional reprise of Skyfall by Adele that left the audience in awe.
It was a full-circle moment for the breakout star, who turned past struggles into a defining victory. With every note, she proved she belonged among music’s biggest icons.
s_bukley/Depositphotos
A Legend’s Final Bow
The Oscars paid tribute to Quincy Jones, who passed away on November 3, 2024, leaving behind an unmatched musical legacy. From The Color Purple to legendary film scores, his genius shaped Hollywood.
Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg led the heartfelt tribute, celebrating his groundbreaking impact. The night was a powerful reminder that Quincy’s influence isn’t just history, it’s the soundtrack of generations.
PopularImages/Depositphotos
Queen Latifah’s ‘Ease on Down the Road’ Tribute
Queen Latifah lit up the Oscars stage with a powerful performance of Ease on Down the Road. Backed by vibrant dancers and soulful backup singers, she brought the house down in true Latifah fashion.
The song, originally produced by Quincy Jones for The Wiz, was the perfect way to honor his legendary contributions. It was a high-energy, joyful celebration of a man who shaped music and film history.
trak_od/Depositphotos
Los Angeles Master Chorale’s ‘In Memoriam’ Tribute
The In Memoriam segment hit deep, with the Los Angeles Master Chorale performing a breathtaking Lacrimosa from Mozart’s Requiem. Their haunting harmonies filled the theater as Hollywood icons, including the late Gene Hackman, were remembered.
The emotional tribute left the audience in solemn reflection. It honored legends lost but never forgotten.
Shutterstock
Morgan Freeman’s Tribute to Gene Hackman
Morgan Freeman took the stage to pay tribute to his dear friend Gene Hackman, and let’s just say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Calling him “one of the greats,” Freeman’s heartfelt words struck an emotional chord.
The audience responded with a well-earned standing ovation. It was a fitting farewell to a Hollywood legend.
But what really happened in Hackman’s final moments? Uncover the details in mysterious death of Gene Hackman and wife at home.
salajean/Depositphotos
This is exclusive content for our subscribers
Enter your email address to subscribe and get instant FREE access to all of our articles
Last Updated: April 21, 2025
Lucky you! This thread is empty,
which means you've got dibs on the first comment.
Go for it!