LET'S TALK: Best Song Nominees for the Oscars 2015

Every year at the Oscars we get the category 'Best Original Song' and I never know the criteria for voting. Is it simply the Academy liking the song or is it to do with its relation to the film, or what?

Anyway, I listened to each of the nominees this year, and here's my thoughts.

1. 'Everything Is Awesome' from The Lego Movie 

I was very surprised The Lego Movie was absent from the nominees for Best Animated Picture this year, as was everybody. I've actually not seen it but after its nominations in the Golden Globes and BAFTAs it seemed like it would most definitely be thought of. However, the song from the film is featured and I have to say this is probably my least favourite. I like Tegan & Sara, they're original and often refreshing but this song is anything but, repetitive and annoying, I really hope it doesn't win. 

2. 'Glory' from Selma

Another film snubbed, especially in the categories of Best Director and Best Actor. This nomination isn't enough, but is completely justified. The song is one of the best of this year's nominees. John Legend's chorus is reminiscent of the church songs that fuelled the Civil Rights Movement and has so much soul and passion. Whilst the 'rap' is a little bit too literal, it was a great way of introducing the movement to the masses. I hope this wins, it's looking like it very well may do, but you never know. 

3. 'Grateful' from Beyond the Lights

I actually really want to see this film, despite this being, like The Lego Movie, the only category the film is nominated in. I also find this the catchiest of the nominees, the backing vocals are great and it certainly sounds like an uplifting end-credit type of song. However, it is rather generic, and the chorus is so plain. We get it, Rita, you're grateful. 

4. 'I'm Not Gonna Miss You' from Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me

Probably one of the front-runners with 'Glory', as it is actually a really good song. I really really enjoyed this one, again, despite not seeing the film. The lyrics, like 'Glory' are some of the more meaningful, however, they feel so much more personal than 'Glory' and I would not be surprised if this actually won. 

5. 'Lost Stars' from Begin Again 

Guess what? I also haven't seen this film! I find Adam Levine hit-and-miss, and when he uses the lyrics 'let's get drunk on our tears', it's probably a miss. His vocals are good but then he bursts into some kind of falsetto high-pitched vocals injecting so much more energy and passion into the song. At first it was bland, but then 'I thought I saw you out there crying' saved it. Decent song, probably won't win though. Interested to see him hit those notes live on Sunday. 

Have a listen for yourself and come to your conclusion, these are just my thoughts and you're welcome to disagree. Let me know your favourites and let's see who wins this Sunday.