For many artists, the weight of personal grief can be transformed into profound creative expression. Such is the journey of Raphael Saadiq, the multi-talented musician and producer, whose recent nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards serves as a bittersweet culmination of a challenging year.

Saadiq and composer Ludwig Göransson were acknowledged for their work on the song “I Lied to You” from the critically acclaimed film ‘Sinners,’ which recently made headlines by breaking records with 16 Oscar nominations. The recognition comes at a poignant time for Saadiq, following the loss of his brother and fellow Tony! Toni! Toné! member, D’Wayne Wiggins, as well as his long-time collaborator and friend, D’Angelo.

The nod for “I Lied to You” is not just a professional achievement for Saadiq but a personal milestone in a year defined by loss and reflection. Speaking with Rolling Stone, Saadiq shed light on the emotional toll of 2025, sharing how these tragic events fueled his passion for music, allowing him to channel his grief into his art. “It’s still affecting me a lot,” he admitted, despite recognizing the healing process that creating music has afforded him.

What makes “I Lied to You” a standout is its deep roots in Black musical traditions, blending elements of the blues with more modern genres like hip-hop. This fusion, which originated as a pure blues track, was amplified by Göransson’s production, embodying the essence of Black musical evolution. Crafting the song was both spontaneous and instinctual for Saadiq, who drew inspiration from blues legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, as well as personal memories—his father was a blues singer, which infused the songwriting process with nostalgia and authenticity.

Saadiq’s ability to translate this personal connection into a piece that resonates with contemporary audiences speaks to his deep understanding of musical history and his innovative spirit. It’s this ability to respect the past while redefining it that caught the attention of the Academy, validating the emotional depth and cultural significance of his work.

The year 2025 tested Saadiq’s resilience, yet it also highlighted his role as a steward of musical heritage, as evidenced by the reception of ‘Sinners’ and its soundtrack. He recalls the journey from writing “I Lied to You” with Göransson at Ryan Coogler’s request to experiencing its powerful placement in the movie without previewing the final cut. Watching the film was, for Saadiq, a powerful moment, seeing how his music interwove with the narrative, reinforcing the emotional weight of the story.

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This journey is emblematic of how music can serve as a bridge between pain and healing, a sentiment echoed in Saadiq’s continued work. With new projects on the horizon, including entries in his vinyl club and collaborations mimicking the vibes of iconic bands like Chic, Saadiq is far from slowing down. His endeavors showcase not just a tribute to those who influenced him, but a message of perseverance for his audiences and peers alike.

In an era where the barriers between popular and so-called ‘high’ art forms continue to dissolve, Saadiq’s acknowledgment by the Oscars not only honors his past but heralds his ongoing contribution to music’s evolving narrative. From the blues-infused melodies to modern-day interpretations, Saadiq’s journey highlights the timeless power of music to carry the stories of our lives across generations.