I'm trying not to go too overboard with obsessing over Moana music, because I realize that I'm heavily biased in its favor, but there's a solid chance that "How Far I'll Go" could get nominated for an Oscar, right? It's the latest song from the Moana soundtrack and it's penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda, owner of fans' hearts. Even though it just dropped on Friday and the final version hasn't even been released, I have a good feeling that this track might nab itself a nomination for Best Original Song at the next Oscars. In its current form, the song is performed by Alessia Cara, but ultimately it will be sung by the movie's star, Auli'i Cravalho, who, of course, voices Moana herself. The song will play while the credits roll, according to Just Jared.
And you guys, it's very good. I think it's always a solid indicator of quality when a song is dropped by a well-known artist in the industry in advance of the actual soundtrack, because it means that Cara, in this case, wants to be connected to it. It's almost like she's vouching for it. Plus, it allows the song to have a life outside of the movie, which is a great step toward getting noticed by the Academy. There's also the fact that the song will play during the credits, meaning it will have the audience's full attention without any pesky animations to take away from the catchy melody, the well-crafted lyrics, and the moving sentiments. Just read the opening lyrics:
I've been standing at the edge of the water'Long as I can remember, never really knowing whyI wish I could be the perfect daughterBut I come back to the water, no matter how hard I tryEvery turn I take, every trail I trackEvery path I make, every road leads backTo the place I know, where I can not go, though I long to be
Did I not mention that "How Far I'll Go" tugs at the heartstrings in a big way? I guess this shouldn't surprise me, because this is Disney and they always know just how to get me. But it's just another reason why I wouldn't be surprised to see this song nab Miranda his first Oscar nod. Take a listen.
I mean, I think everybody knows it's only a matter of time before Miranda gets his EGOT, so the sooner that can happen, the better. In fact, there might end up being other songs in Moana that could nab noms at the Oscars, whether instead of "How Far I'll Go" or in addition. Regardless, it really does feel like a perfect storm that at least one will get a nod. It's a Disney movie, the music is written by Tony winner and certified genius Miranda, Cara recorded her own version, and it's also damn good. (Can't forget that last part.) I don't want to get too far ahead of myself, but this feels like a done deal.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have to listen to "How Far I'll Go" about a million more times before Moana comes out on Nov. 23.
