The 2025 Academy Awards are shaping up to be a night to remember, with a special tribute planned for one of the most influential figures in music history. Queen Latifah is set to take the stage for a performance honoring the legendary Quincy Jones.
The announcement was made by executive producer Raj Kapoor during a press conference with the creative team. “One of the most exciting things that we’ve worked on this year is a musical performance that will tribute Quincy Jones,” he revealed, adding that Queen Latifah will be “a part of the performance.”
READ: 10 Years Later: Tracking Progress Before and After #OscarsSoWhite
A revered musician, producer, and cultural icon, Jones received a Governor’s Award earlier this year. Kapoor emphasized that the tribute will be a celebratory moment, saying, “We’ve planned and curated this beautiful moment that we hope will uplift the room, that will celebrate the spirit of Quincy and all of his greatness. It’s a beautiful moment, and we think it will be very celebratory and make everybody feel really good.”
Queen Latifah is just one of several high-profile artists set to perform during the ceremony. As previously announced, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will open the show with a Wicked medley, while Lisa (Blackpink), Doja Cat, and RAYE are also scheduled to take the stage.
The 97th Academy Awards will be hosted by Conan O’Brien and will air live on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu.
Confirmed presenters include Dave Bautista, Harrison Ford, Gal Gadot, Andrew Garfield, Samuel L. Jackson, Zoe Saldaña, Rachel Zegler, and more.
In addition to celebrating cinematic achievements, this year’s Oscars will also highlight themes of community and resilience. Kapoor noted that the show will honor Los Angeles and the many people impacted by recent challenges.
The ceremony will also incorporate a charitable initiative, giving viewers opportunities to engage and contribute to meaningful causes.