Elton John is back in the running for Oscar recognition with the Rocketman being named on the shortlist in the Best Original Song category for next year’s awards. Sir Elton has two compositions which are in with a chance of scooping the top prize at the glitzy American shindig, as both “Never Too Late” from “The Lion King” re-make and “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” from his successful biopic “Rocketman” has made the initial cut.
Should both of Elton’s tracks be nominated, he would become the first songwriter since Lionel Richie – a staggering 34 years ago – to achieve that feat with songs from two different films in the same year.
The shortlist also features another track from “The Lion King” re-make, as Beyonce joins the competitors vying for a coveted nomination.
Snub for Taylor Swift
Despite a fanfare of publicity behind the recently released and visually stunning “Cats” movie, the re-boot of the popular West End smash stage production, pop megastar Taylor Swift’s rendition of “Beautiful Ghosts” has been snubbed by the Oscars by failing to make the 15-strong shortlist.
Elton John looking to emulate previous Oscar win
British Music royalty comes no higher than Elton (born Reg Dwight), the flamboyant singer will no doubt be hoping to emulate his previous success in the competition back in 1994, when his powerful ballad “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” from the original “The Lion King” Film struck gold.
Biopic box office success
His life and career have never been far from the news in recent years, as his performing career seems to be gradually winding down - at least as far as touring is concerned. However, the box office success of “Rocketman” where Taron Egerton stunningly portrayed Elton on screen has rekindled memories of his long career and chart successes for long-time fans and new audiences alike.
The combination of the colourful story as young Reg is transformed into a global music icon with a top-class soundtrack has netted an estimated $195m already at the box office.
Disney’s smash hit
“The Lion King” story has already wowed film fans, with the 1994 Disney animated creation raking in around $960m at the box office.
Elton’s partnership with lyricist Tim Rice on “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” also proved to be an inspired choice, as the pair scooped the 1995 Oscar prize. Given the huge success of the original film, a followup was always a possibility and the 2019 remake again features Elton’s unique talents on the soundtrack (after another collaboration with Rice), as this time he sings “Never Too Late” to accompany the film’s end credits.
Festive film fun has George Michael soundtrack
Indeed, British musicians inspired soundtracks appear to be in vogue at present, with the George Michael and Wham! vehicle “Last Christmas” seeking the attention of festive filmgoers. The rom-com film features Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding and Emma Thompson in a slightly quirky story that looks to tug at the heartstrings during this typically nostalgic time of the year. However, the real bonus is the nod to the talent and versatility of the late George, who tragically died on Christmas Day in 2016.
