The 96th Academy Awards, scheduled for this Sunday, March 2, marks a significant shift in tradition. For the first time in years, none of the five nominees for Best Original Song will perform live during the ceremony. This change has sparked debate among fans and critics alike, as musical performances have historically been one of the most anticipated segments of the Oscars. Despite this, the history of Oscar-winning songs and their unforgettable live renditions remains a cherished part of the event's legacy. From Celine Dion’s haunting rendition of "My Heart Will Go On" to Adele’s powerful performance of "Skyfall," these moments have left an indelible mark on both the industry and audiences worldwide.

In 1992, the animated classic Beauty and the Beast made waves at the Oscars with three nominated songs. The live-action recreations of "Belle" and "Be Our Guest" featured the original voice actors, bringing the characters to life in a way that captivated viewers. Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's masterful compositions added depth to the film, making the performances not just memorable but also pivotal to the movie's success. The elaborate staging and authentic portrayals by Paige O’Hara, Richard White, and Jerry Orbach elevated the experience, reminding us why these songs deserve their moment on the big stage.

Celine Dion’s performance of "My Heart Will Go On" in 1998 is another iconic moment. The song, which became synonymous with the film Titanic, was not only a commercial hit but also a critical darling. Dion’s emotive delivery solidified her status as a legendary performer and earned the song its well-deserved Oscar. The ballad's timeless quality continues to resonate with audiences, proving that some performances are truly unforgettable.

The Prince of Egypt’s "When You Believe," performed by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston in 1999, showcased the power of two vocal titans coming together. DreamWorks Animation’s first animated feature may have faded into obscurity, but this duet remains a highlight of the Oscars. The emotional depth and harmonious blend of Carey and Houston’s voices created a moment that transcended the film, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.

In 2004, Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara delivered a stripped-down yet profoundly moving rendition of "A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow" from A Mighty Wind. The simplicity of the performance allowed the song’s heartfelt message to shine through, proving that sometimes less is more. This understated approach highlighted the sincerity of the lyrics and the chemistry between the performers, creating a poignant moment that stood out among the grander spectacles of previous ceremonies.

John Legend and Common’s performance of "Glory" from Selma in 2015 was both a musical triumph and a call to action. The song’s powerful message resonated deeply with the audience, making it a standout moment in the ceremony. The duo’s dynamic presence and the song’s relevance to social justice issues made it not just an Oscar-winning performance but also a rallying cry for change.

One of the most unexpected and hilarious moments came when Robin Williams took the stage to perform "Blame Canada" from South Park: Bigger Longer & Uncut in 1999. Matt Stone and Trey Parker’s satirical genius shone through in this song, and Williams’s comedic brilliance added an extra layer of entertainment. His ability to make the performance even funnier than the original showcased his versatility and cemented this as one of the most entertaining moments in Oscar history.

Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s duet of "Shallow" from A Star Is Born in 2019 was nothing short of breathtaking. The chemistry between the two artists was palpable, and their live performance captured the essence of the song’s emotional journey. While Cooper demonstrated his vocal prowess, it was Gaga’s commanding presence that truly stole the show, earning the song its rightful place in the annals of Oscar-winning performances.

More recently, Ryan Gosling’s comedic take on "I’m Just Ken" from Barbie in 2024 provided a lighthearted yet impressive addition to the list of memorable performances. Despite Gosling’s self-deprecating humor, the song’s energy and the cameo appearances from other cast members made it a highlight of the evening. Billie Eilish’s struggle not to laugh only added to the charm of this unique moment.

Bruce Springsteen’s contribution to Philadelphia in 1994 was a departure from his usual style, but his performance of "Streets of Philadelphia" was nothing short of mesmerizing. The song’s raw emotion and Springsteen’s ability to convey the film’s themes through music made it a standout moment. Tom Hanks’s win for Best Actor that night further underscored the film’s impact, creating a night to remember.

Finally, Adele’s performance of "Skyfall" in 2013 marked a historic moment for the James Bond franchise. Her haunting vocals, accompanied by a minimalist orchestra, perfectly encapsulated the spy’s inner turmoil. Adele’s restrained yet powerful delivery ensured that the song’s impact was felt long after the ceremony ended, solidifying its place as one of the greatest Oscar moments.

These performances remind us why musical numbers are such an integral part of the Oscars. Each one brings a unique flavor to the ceremony, whether through emotional depth, comedic flair, or sheer talent. As we look forward to future ceremonies, we can only hope that the tradition of live performances returns, allowing new generations to experience the magic of music on the world’s biggest stage.