The 2016 Oscars featured a stellar lineup of nominees for Best Original Song, showcasing a diverse range of musical styles and emotional depths. This year was particularly exciting because the nominated songs weren't just catchy tunes; they were integral parts of the films they represented, adding layers of meaning and enhancing the overall storytelling. Let's dive into each of these incredible songs and explore what made them stand out.

"Earned It" - The Weeknd (Fifty Shades of Grey)

"Earned It," performed by The Weeknd, served as the sultry and atmospheric anthem for the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack. This song encapsulates the complex relationship dynamics portrayed in the film. From its initial release, "Earned It" became a massive hit, not only because of its catchy melody but also due to its evocative lyrics. The Weeknd’s signature vocals, combined with the orchestral arrangement, created a soundscape that perfectly mirrored the film’s themes of desire, pain, and intimacy. The song's success wasn't limited to the charts; it garnered critical acclaim for its production quality and lyrical depth. The Weeknd, known for his ability to blend R&B with alternative sounds, crafted a track that felt both modern and timeless. Its inclusion in the Oscars further solidified its place in pop culture history, demonstrating the Academy's willingness to recognize music that resonates with contemporary audiences while maintaining artistic integrity. The song's impact extended beyond the film, becoming a staple in playlists and radio stations worldwide, proving its lasting appeal and musical merit. The Weeknd's performance of "Earned It" at various award shows further amplified its popularity, introducing it to broader audiences and cementing its status as an iconic song of the 2010s. The song's recognition at the Oscars highlighted the evolving landscape of film music, where pop sensibilities and artistic expression could coexist harmoniously, enriching the cinematic experience.

"Manta Ray" - J. Ralph & Antony Hegarty (Racing Extinction)

"Manta Ray," a collaboration between J. Ralph and Antony Hegarty, provided a haunting and poignant soundtrack to the documentary Racing Extinction. This song is a powerful call to action, highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation. Antony Hegarty's unique and ethereal vocals lend an otherworldly quality to the track, perfectly complementing the documentary's visuals of endangered species and threatened ecosystems. The minimalist arrangement allows the song's message to take center stage, creating an emotional connection with the audience that transcends language barriers. J. Ralph's compositional skills are evident in the way the music builds gradually, creating a sense of mounting tension and urgency. The song serves as a reminder of the fragility of our planet and the importance of protecting its diverse inhabitants. Its nomination at the Oscars brought much-needed attention to the critical issues raised in Racing Extinction, using the platform to amplify the voices of environmental activists and scientists. "Manta Ray" is more than just a song; it is a statement, a plea for humanity to recognize its role in the ongoing environmental crisis and to take immediate action to reverse the damage. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics linger long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and inspiring change. Its impact lies not only in its musical beauty but also in its ability to raise awareness and ignite passion for environmental stewardship. The collaboration between J. Ralph and Antony Hegarty exemplifies the power of music to transcend entertainment and become a catalyst for social and environmental change.

"Simple Song #3" - Sumi Jo (Youth)

"Simple Song #3," performed by Sumi Jo, added a layer of operatic beauty to the film Youth. This song, composed by David Lang, stands out for its classical influence and emotional resonance. Sumi Jo’s soaring vocals bring a sense of grandeur and timelessness to the film, reflecting the themes of memory, aging, and the passage of time. The orchestral arrangement is both intricate and delicate, creating a rich sonic tapestry that enhances the film's visual storytelling. The song's simplicity is deceptive; beneath its surface lies a complex emotional depth that resonates with audiences on multiple levels. Its nomination for Best Original Song at the Oscars highlighted the diversity of musical styles within the film industry, showcasing the power of classical music to evoke profound emotions. "Simple Song #3" is not just a song; it is an experience, a journey through the inner landscapes of the characters in Youth. Sumi Jo's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of the human spirit. The song's inclusion in the film elevates the narrative, adding a layer of emotional complexity that lingers long after the credits roll. David Lang's composition is a testament to his skill in blending classical and contemporary elements, creating a piece of music that feels both familiar and new. The song's recognition at the Oscars underscored the importance of artistic collaboration in filmmaking, demonstrating how music can enhance and enrich the cinematic experience.

"Til It Happens to You" - Lady Gaga (The Hunting Ground)

"Til It Happens to You," performed and co-written by Lady Gaga, served as the powerful anthem for the documentary The Hunting Ground, which addresses the issue of sexual assault on college campuses. This song is a raw and emotional portrayal of trauma and resilience, resonating deeply with survivors of sexual violence. Lady Gaga’s vocals are filled with both vulnerability and strength, capturing the pain and the hope that characterize the healing process. The lyrics are direct and unflinching, confronting the harsh realities of sexual assault while offering a message of solidarity and support. The song's impact extended far beyond the film, becoming a rallying cry for survivors and advocates alike. Its nomination at the Oscars brought much-needed attention to the issue of sexual assault, using the platform to amplify the voices of survivors and challenge the culture of silence and shame. "Til It Happens to You" is more than just a song; it is a movement, a catalyst for change. Lady Gaga's personal connection to the song, as a survivor herself, adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotional depth. The song's performance at the Oscars was particularly powerful, featuring a group of survivors joining Lady Gaga on stage, creating a moment of solidarity and empowerment. The song's recognition at the Oscars underscored the importance of using art as a tool for social change, demonstrating how music can raise awareness, promote healing, and inspire action.

"Writing's on the Wall" - Sam Smith (Spectre)

"Writing's on the Wall," performed by Sam Smith, became the theme song for the James Bond film Spectre. This song carries the weight of the iconic Bond legacy while adding a contemporary twist. Sam Smith’s distinctive vocals, combined with the classic Bond orchestral arrangement, created a song that felt both familiar and fresh. The lyrics hint at themes of love, betrayal, and destiny, aligning with the film's narrative. The song's success on the charts demonstrated its broad appeal, capturing the attention of both Bond fans and contemporary music lovers. Its win at the Oscars marked a significant achievement for Sam Smith and cemented the song's place in Bond history. "Writing's on the Wall" is more than just a theme song; it is an integral part of the Bond mythos, contributing to the overall atmosphere and storytelling of Spectre. Sam Smith's performance brought a new level of emotional depth to the Bond franchise, exploring the vulnerability and humanity beneath the suave exterior of the iconic spy. The song's arrangement pays homage to classic Bond themes while incorporating modern production techniques, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. The song's recognition at the Oscars highlighted the enduring appeal of the Bond franchise and its ability to evolve with the times while maintaining its core identity. The song's impact extended beyond the film, becoming a staple in Sam Smith's repertoire and a popular choice for covers and remixes, proving its lasting appeal and musical merit.

In conclusion, the 2016 Oscar nominees for Best Original Song showcased an impressive range of talent and musical styles. Each song not only enhanced its respective film but also stood on its own as a powerful and memorable work of art.