Rihanna is gearing up for an unforgettable moment at the 97th Academy Awards, where she will take the stage to perform “Lift Me Up”, her Oscar-nominated song from the critically acclaimed Marvel film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The song has already made waves across the entertainment world, receiving widespread praise for its emotional depth and powerful message of remembrance, and Rihanna’s upcoming performance is sure to be one of the standout moments of the evening.

The 97th Academy Awards, which will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, promises to be an extraordinary night filled with star power, high drama, and unforgettable performances. But for Rihanna, this particular appearance is especially significant as it marks her first-ever Oscar nomination. The multi-talented artist, who has already won seven Grammy Awards, is now among the ranks of those competing for an Academy Award. The song “Lift Me Up”, which features prominently in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, was co-written by Rihanna, the film’s director Ryan Coogler, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems. This collaboration has struck a chord with fans and critics alike, resonating deeply with audiences around the world for its moving tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman.

“Lift Me Up” serves as a poignant tribute to the legacy of Boseman, who portrayed the beloved character T’Challa in the Black Panther franchise. The song, with its heartfelt lyrics and sweeping melody, embodies themes of strength, love, and healing in the wake of loss. It has become an anthem of remembrance, not only for Boseman but also for anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one. Rihanna’s performance at the Oscars is set to bring these emotions to life in front of an audience of millions, creating what promises to be a deeply moving and memorable moment.

In addition to the excitement surrounding her nomination, Rihanna has added another layer of personal significance to the event by revealing that she is pregnant with her second child. This announcement, made shortly before the Oscars, has only heightened the anticipation for her performance. Rihanna, who has always been open about her journey through motherhood, expressed how special it will be to perform “Lift Me Up” while carrying her baby. She referred to the experience as a “true blessing” and shared that it was a moment she would cherish forever. The combination of her incredible talent and her growing family is sure to make Rihanna’s performance one of the most emotional and meaningful moments of the entire evening.

Rihanna’s Oscars performance follows her landmark appearance at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, where she delivered a show-stopping performance that captivated viewers around the world. That performance marked her highly anticipated return to the stage after a hiatus from live performances, and it was a moment that solidified her status as one of the most influential artists of her generation. In both the Super Bowl show and her upcoming Oscar performance, Rihanna has demonstrated her extraordinary ability to connect with audiences, using her music to convey deep emotions and universal themes.

As the 97th Academy Awards draws closer, excitement continues to build over the possibility that “Lift Me Up” could take home the Oscar for Best Original Song. While the competition is fierce, with many talented artists vying for the prestigious honor, Rihanna’s song has already become a fan favorite and a strong contender. The Academy Awards are known for honoring musical excellence, and “Lift Me Up” has certainly earned its place among the nominees. The song’s combination of powerful vocals, moving lyrics, and the emotional context of its connection to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever makes it a standout contender for the win.

For Rihanna, the Oscar nomination marks yet another milestone in her already illustrious career. Over the years, she has solidified herself not only as a pop icon but also as a multifaceted entrepreneur, fashion mogul, and philanthropist. Her journey from a young girl from Barbados to an international superstar has been nothing short of remarkable. Rihanna’s influence extends far beyond her music, and her presence at the Oscars will further cement her legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern entertainment.

The 97th Academy Awards will be hosted by comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who is known for his sharp wit and comedic timing. Kimmel’s role as host is expected to add an extra layer of fun and excitement to the evening, as he has a reputation for keeping the audience engaged and entertained. As always, the Oscars will feature a wide range of performances, awards, and surprise moments, but Rihanna’s performance of “Lift Me Up” is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated highlights of the night.

As the night draws nearer, fans are eager to see how Rihanna’s performance will unfold on the Oscar stage. Regardless of whether “Lift Me Up” takes home the coveted Oscar for Best Original Song, Rihanna’s journey to the Academy Awards is a testament to her incredible talent, resilience, and ability to connect with audiences on a global scale. This moment in her career, combined with her growing family and the incredible impact of “Lift Me Up”, will undoubtedly make the 97th Academy Awards a night to remember.