Only three tracks are up for Best Song at this year’s Oscar ceremony, which is a bit of a head-scratcher.
Why? Well, the Academy passed over Bruce Springsteen’s “The Wrestler” for no apparent reason.
The pained and simple track was written at the request of Mickey Rourke for the film, and later included as a bonus on Springsteen’s latest album, the largely mediocre “Working on a Dream.” The song should have been nominated for an Oscar.
I’m not saying it should have won. “Jai Ho” and, more particularly, “O Saya,” both from “Slumdog Millionaire,” are very deserving of a win. And while Peter Gabriel pulled out of the ceremony in protest of its streamlined format, his “Down to Earth” is a fine enough track.
But still, Springsteen should have at least gotten a nod.
Hear his song below, along with some live Kings of Leon and a new song from the Fleet Foxes’ drummer.
Bruce Springsteen — “The Wrestler” — Video
I liked this song before I saw “The Wrestler.” I liked it even more after seeing the movie (which itself is pretty great; an office stapler never seemed so awful). Anyway, the video cuts between angsty and heartfelt clips of Randy “The Ram” Robinson, as Springsteen stalks a wrestling ring.
Kings of Leon—“Use Somebody”—Live
This is still my favorite track off of the Kings of Leon’s latest album, “Only by the Night.” The Tennessee group trotted it out at the 2009 BRIT Awards, where the band just won best international act and best international album.
J. Tillman — “Firstborn” — Video
If the ghostly harmonies on this song sound a bit like the Fleet Foxes, don’t be surprised. Tillman is that group’s drummer. This clip, for a song from his solo album, “Vacilando Territory Blues,” probably should feel dull. Somehow, it doesn’t. We get to watch a big flock of birds circle buildings. Not much happens, but paired with the sad little song, it’s hypnotic.
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