On Thursday (January 23), the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that the 2025 Oscars won’t feature the standard live performances of the Best Original Songs nominees. A statement from Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said the ceremony will instead “honor Los Angeles as a city of dreams, showcasing its beauty and resilience” following the devastating wildfires that have ravaged the city, “while highlighting the strength, creativity, and optimism” of Hollywood. The Oscar nominated songwriters will still be recognized during the ceremony through “personal reflections from the teams who bring these songs to life,” with the statement assuring that “all of this, and more, will uncover the stories and inspiration behind this year’s nominees.” This marks the first Oscars since 2012 – and only the fourth ceremony overall – where there won’t be live performances of the Best Original Songs nominees. The Oscars are scheduled for March 2nd, with Conan O’Brien serving as host. (Consequence of Sound)