Once wins Oscar for best original song!

Last night was the 80th annual Academy Awards and it was a warm and inspiring moment for all independent artists. Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová of the movie, Once won best original song beating Enchantment's three nominated songs written by Stephen Schwartz and August Rush's "Raise It Up" by Jamal Joseph, Charles Mack, Tevin Thomas.

It's wonderful that finally, the award goes to artists outside of the Hollywood mainstream circle. There was a glimmer of hope when Elliott Smith's "Miss Misery" was nominated in 1997 for Good Will Hunting, but then it was passed over for Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On" for Titanic. Markéta said it best when brought out by the wonderful host Jon Stewart after the commercial break. Her acceptance speech was originally interrupted by the wrap-up music.

Congratulations Glen and Markéta and thank you for such a beautiful movie and music!

Markéta: "Hi everyone, I just want to thank you so much. This is such a big deal not only for us but for all other independent musicians and artists that spend most of their time struggling. The fact that we're standing here tonight, the fact that we're able to hold this, it's just to prove that no matter how far out your dreams are, it's possible. You know, fair play to those who dare to dream and don't give up. and this song was written from the perspective of hope and hope at the end connects us all, no matter how different we are. so thank you so much to those who helped us along the way. Thank you. "

Glen Hansard and Markéta Iglová at the Oscars
by videoyouth

Download + Purchase:

Falling Slowly | Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová


Links:

» The Official Once Website
» Once Soundtrack MySpace
» Swell Season's MySpace
» Billboard: 'Once,' 'Atonement' Triumph In Music Oscars

~anne