The 2025 Academy Awards will be a night for the ages, and it was just revealed that we will be in for a special tribute to the iconic Quincy Jones. Queen Latifah will front a special musical tribute to the late producer and composer, an inevitable moment likely to pluck the audience to its feet in reverence of his once-in-a-lifetime contributions to music and film.
Jones, who died in November at 91, authored a legacy that stretches across decades, music genres, and barriers in the entertainment world. The impact of his groundbreaking work with Michael Jackson alone, not to mention jazz, film scores, and humanitarian works, is simply immeasurable.
Raj Kapoor, showrunner of the Oscars, confirmed the news at a press event, providing a teaser for what to expect from the highly anticipated tribute.
"One of the most exciting things I think that we've worked on this year is a musical performance that will pay tribute to Quincy Jones," Kapoor said in a statement to Billboard. "(Jones) was one of our Governors Awards last year, and we've planned and curated this beautiful moment that we hope uplifts the room, that celebrates the spirit of Quincy and of all his richness, and we're glad to say that Queen Latifah is part of that performance."
Kapoor kept mute when it came to other artists joining Latifah on stage, but he promised viewers a spectacular show. And given Latifah's powerhouse presence, with deep roots in music and film, there's no denying she'll serve a tribute befitting of Jones' legendary stature.
The 2025 Oscars aren't just about honoring Hollywood's best in film; they also deliver serious star power to the stage with a loaded musical lineup. In addition to Latifah's tribute, viewers can expect performances from Doja Cat, BLACKPINK's Lisa, and RAYE. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are also widely believed to join for a unique Wicked medley, honoring the highly anticipated musical adaptation.
And to start things off with excitement, this year's ceremony will be hosted by Conan O'Brien, who is making his Oscars debut. O'Brien, known for his hilarious style and rapier wit, should ensure the night is lively and filled with surprises." Kapoor teased that surprises await, with "a few different cameos" that will not be announced beforehand.
On the awards side, the race is closer than ever. Emilia Pérez tops the list with 13 nominations, followed by "The Brutalist and Wicked," which scored 10 nods apiece. With excitement brewing, fans worldwide are keen to see how the evening pans out.
With Queen Latifah's moving tribute to Quincy Jones set to be the highlight of this year's musical performances at the Academy Awards and a ton of awards being given to the most influential people in cinema, there's no doubt this year is going to be an emotional and celebratory night honoring one of the most transformative figures in the history of entertainment.
0 Comments