Raphael Saadiq’s “I Lied to You” Performance at Oscars Celebrates Black Music History | Sinners, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard & More

Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq Deliver Powerful Performance of Oscar-Nominated “I Lied to You”

Los Angeles, CA – A stunning performance of “I Lied to You” from the film Sinners captivated audiences at the 98th Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Led by Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq, the performance featured an impressive array of musical talent, including Misty Copeland, Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey, and Alice Smith. The song, penned by Saadiq and composer Ludwig Göransson, is nominated for Best Original Song at this year’s Oscars, recognizing its powerful narrative and musicality within the critically acclaimed film.

The performance wasn’t merely a musical rendition; it was a vibrant and evocative recreation of the Club Juke scene from Sinners, bringing to life the film’s exploration of Black music and dance history. The stage design meticulously mirrored the film’s setting, creating a transcendent atmosphere. Copeland’s contribution represented the grace of modern ballet, while other dancers showcased a diverse range of styles, including twerking, breakdancing, Xiqu, and Zaouli, highlighting the rich tapestry of movement that informs the film’s narrative. Director Ryan Coogler’s visible emotion during the performance underscored the film’s central theme of cultural preservation and celebration.

“I Lied to You” – A Pivotal Moment in Sinners

In Sinners, “I Lied to You” arrives at a crucial juncture, introducing audiences to Sammie Moore, also known as Preacher Boy, portrayed by Miles Caton. As reported by Rolling Stone, the song is performed as Preacher Boy reveals his origins, stating, “They call me Preacher Boy on count of my daddy being a pastor. I wrote this song for him.” The raw and emotive blues track embodies his character’s defiance and aspirations, weaving together the past, present, and future of Black music. The scene culminates in a dramatic moment as the juke joint’s roof is set ablaze, symbolizing a powerful release and transformation.

Sinners has garnered significant recognition this awards season, receiving a record-breaking 16 nominations at the 98th Academy Awards. This widespread acclaim underscores the film’s impact and its exploration of complex themes through compelling storytelling and music. The film’s success is a testament to the vision of director Ryan Coogler and the dedication of the entire cast and crew.

The Creative Forces Behind the Music

Raphael Saadiq, a celebrated musician and composer, is a driving force behind the sound of Sinners. He collaborated with Ludwig Göransson, a renowned composer known for his work on films like Black Panther and Oppenheimer, to create the emotionally resonant score and songs that define the film’s atmosphere. Göransson’s expertise in blending diverse musical styles with powerful storytelling has been instrumental in the film’s success. Saadiq’s own musical background, rooted in R&B and soul, infuses the soundtrack with authenticity and depth.

Miles Caton’s portrayal of Preacher Boy is central to the impact of “I Lied to You.” His performance captures the character’s vulnerability and strength, conveying the weight of history and the hope for a better future. Caton’s vocal delivery and stage presence bring the song to life, making it a truly unforgettable moment in the film and on the Oscars stage.

A Stellar Lineup of Performers

The performance at the Oscars showcased a remarkable gathering of musical talent. Misty Copeland, a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, brought her exceptional artistry to the stage, representing the elegance and precision of ballet. Eric Gales, a blues guitarist known for his virtuosic skills, added a raw and energetic edge to the performance. Buddy Guy, a blues legend, contributed his iconic sound and stage presence, further enriching the musical tapestry. Brittany Howard, the lead singer of Alabama Shakes, brought her powerful vocals and soulful energy to the performance. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, a rising star in the blues world, showcased his exceptional guitar skills and vocal talent. Jayme Lawson and Li Jun Li added to the visual spectacle, while Bobby Rush, a veteran blues musician, brought his decades of experience to the stage. Shaboozey, a contemporary country and blues artist, and Alice Smith, a versatile vocalist, rounded out the impressive lineup.

The inclusion of such a diverse group of artists underscores the film’s message of inclusivity and the interconnectedness of musical traditions. The performance served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Black music and its influence on American culture.

The Competition for Best Original Song

“I Lied to You” faces stiff competition in the Best Original Song category. The nominees include “Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless, with music and lyrics by Diane Warren; “Golden” from Kpop Demon Hunters, with music and lyrics by Ejae, Ido, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Mark Sonnenblick, Teddy, and 24; “Sweet Dreams of Joy” from Viva Verdi!, with music and lyric by Nicholas Pike; and “Train Dreams” from Train Dreams, with music by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner, and lyrics by Nick Cave. The winner will be announced at the 98th Academy Awards ceremony on March 15, 2026.

The Academy Awards ceremony will continue with the announcement of winners in other categories, celebrating the achievements of filmmakers and artists across various disciplines. The event is expected to draw a global audience, recognizing the power of cinema to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought.

The 98th Academy Awards will be broadcast live on ABC, and streaming on Hulu. Viewers can find more information about the awards and the nominees on the official Academy Awards website: https://www.oscars.org/.

The outcome of the Best Original Song category remains to be seen, but the performance of “I Lied to You” has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on audiences and solidified its place as a standout moment of the 98th Academy Awards. The song’s powerful message and the exceptional talent of the performers have resonated with viewers around the world.

Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continuing coverage of the 98th Academy Awards and the latest developments in the entertainment industry. We invite you to share your thoughts on the performance and the nominees in the comments below.