Billie Eilish's chart-topping track "What Was I Made For?" has been dominating this year's awards circuit, clinching a Grammy for Song of the Year and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song.
Now, the famous artist and her brother, who works with her on music, have brought their talents to Hollywood by performing at the 2024 Academy Awards.
Billie Eilish, Finneas O'Connell's Oscar Performance
The hit song "What Was I Made For?" was performed by Billie Eilish and her brother, Finneas O'Connell, during their emotional performance at the Academy Awards. The song was taken from Greta Gerwig's highly regarded film "Barbie," which was nominated for eight Academy Awards.
Through her uncommon and beautiful singing, Eilish captivated the audience, and O'Connell, who was playing the piano, accompanied her. The duo's performance, which was supported by a string orchestra, enthralled the audience and drew them into the emotional depth of the song.
A visually magnificent backdrop was made for the performance by the stage, which was decorated with production design that was based on the "Barbie" motif and was illuminated by bright pink lighting fixtures.
"What Was I Made For?" features on the soundtrack of "Barbie: The Album," earning a nomination for Best Original Song. The film itself garnered nominations across multiple categories, including Best Picture, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Adapted Screenplay, Costume Design, and Production Design. Additionally, Ryan Gosling and Mark Ronson's hit song, "I'm Just Ken," is also in contention for Best Original Song. A victory for Eilish would cement her status as the youngest two-time Oscar winner in history.
The song "What Was I Made For?" has been so successful that it has won the award for Song of the Year at the Grammy Awards in addition to other awards, such as the Academy Awards. Additionally, "Barbie" was determined to be the winner in the category of Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media as well as Best Song Written for Visual Media, according to Variety.
Honored at Hitmakers for 'What Was I Made For?'
Eilish, O'Connell, and their song were celebrated at Variety's 2023 Hitmakers ceremony, where they received the Film Song of the Year award. The duo was introduced by Bernie Taupin, renowned for his songwriting partnership with Elton John, who delivered a moving tribute to their artistry.
The idea about their contribution to the Barbie soundtrack, Eilish remembered facing existential questions during a difficult time. On the other hand, Eilish experienced a big change in perspective after watching substance from the film that Gerwig had chosen. She shared a strong connection with Barbie's story, finding comfort and relating to her challenges and feelings.
The Oscar nomination for "What Was I Made For?" places it among esteemed contenders for Best Original Song, competing against tracks from notable films like Flamin' Hot, American Symphony, and Killers of the Flower Moon.
The 96th Academy Awards, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, unfolded on March 10 at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, marking another memorable evening celebrating excellence in cinema,The Hollywood Reporter.
