At the 2024 Academy Awards on Sunday evening, Billie Eilish presented a compelling rendition of “What Was I Made For?”
The impactful performance featured Eilish collaborating with her brother, co-writer, and producer Finneas O’Connell, as they delivered a touching interpretation of the song from Greta Gerwig’s film “Barbie,” which received eight Oscar nominations.
With O’Connell at the piano, Eilish captivated the audience with her distinct ethereal vocals.
A delicate performance unfolded as a string orchestra joined in, with O’Connell providing subtle harmonies to complement his sister.
The Dolby Theatre stage was bathed in bright pink lighting, adorned with “Barbie”-themed production design, creating a visually striking backdrop.
The sibling duo, armed with existential lyrics and an affecting melody, earned a standing ovation from the audience.
The track “What Was I Made For?” is featured on “Barbie: The Album,” the soundtrack for Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster, garnering nominations for Best Original Song.
“Barbie” itself received nods in various categories, including Best Picture, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Adapted Screenplay, Costume Design, and Production Design.
Additionally, the viral Һit “I’m Just Ken” by Ryan Gosling and Mark Ronson is also competing for Best Original Song.
A victory for Eilish on Sunday night would make the 22-year-old the youngest two-time Oscar winner in history.
Last month, “What Was I Made For?” secured the Song of the Year award at the Grammys, while “Barbie” won for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media and Best Song Written for Visual Media.
Eilish, O’Connell, and their song were celebrated at Variety’s 2023 Hitmakers ceremony in December, where they received the Film Song of the Year award for “What Was I Made For?”
Bernie Taupin, Elton John’s longtime songwriting partner, delivered a moving speech during the ceremony.
Expressing gratitude, Eilish remarked, “I just feel very lucky that we were even thought of to make this song, and I thank God that it happened at all because I feel like it really saved us from a creative meltdown.
I think that when we were asked to make this song, it was just what we needed in our writer’s block.
