Shaboozey, Misty Copeland Join Miles Caton, Raphael Saadiq in Rousing ‘I Lied to You’ Oscars Performance
In a breathtaking display of musical heritage and cinematic artistry, Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq took center stage at the 98th Academy Awards to perform the standout track “I Lied to You” from the film Sinners. The performance, which was a pivotal highlight of the evening, underscored the deep cultural resonance of the film’s soundtrack, which is currently nominated for Best Original Song.
A Star-Studded Celebration of Black Music
Caton and Saadiq were far from alone on the Dolby Theatre stage. They were joined by a powerhouse ensemble that bridged generations and genres. Artists including the legendary Buddy Guy, soul-stirring vocalist Brittany Howard, and breakout star Shaboozey added layers of blues, soul, and country-inflected rock to the arrangement. The lineup also featured guitar virtuoso Eric Gales, blues revivalist Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Bobby Rush, Alice Smith, and actors Jayme Lawson and Li Jun Li, all coming together to honor the film’s musical roots.
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Recreating the Magic of Club Juke
The set design was a marvel of technical and creative direction, bringing the film’s iconic “Club Juke” to life. The performance served as a visual and auditory tribute to the preservation of Black music and dance traditions. Misty Copeland, widely considered the premier modern ballet dancer of her generation, provided a stunning, fluid contrast to the more kinetic energy of the other dancers on stage. The choreography featured a rich tapestry of styles, including breakdancing, Xiqu, and Zaouli, creating a visceral connection between the past and the present.
The Significance of ‘Sinners’
Sinners has been a critical darling this awards season, securing a record-breaking 16 nominations. The track “I Lied to You,” penned by Saadiq and composer Ludwig Göransson, acts as the soul of the film. It appears during a pivotal scene where Sammie Moore (Caton)—also known as Preacher Boy—introduces himself to the crowd at a juke joint. The song serves as a manifesto of his defiance, pain, and aspirations, culminating in a climactic moment that leaves the audience breathless.
Best Original Song Competition
The competition for Best Original Song this year is fierce, with “I Lied to You” competing against:
- “Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless
- “Golden” from Kpop Demon Hunters
- “Sweet Dreams of Joy” from Viva Verdi!
- “Train Dreams” from Train Dreams
As the Oscars stage lit up during the final refrain, it was clear that the performance was not just about winning an award, but about celebrating the enduring legacy of Black American art on the world’s largest stage.
