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The Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL) Awards celebrated the best in music composition for film and television, highlighting a night rich with talent and memorable performances. The ceremony took place at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, honoring the artistic achievements of both emerging and established voices in the industry.
Among the notable winners was Ludwig Göransson, who secured two prestigious awards for his work on the film Sinners. His score and the original song I Lied to You, co-written with Raphael Saadiq, were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the cinematic experience. Additionally, singer-songwriter EJAE received accolades for his song Golden from the comedy KPop Demon Hunters, showcasing the diversity of musical talent honored that evening.
Significant achievements and collaborations
Another highlight of the evening was Bryce Dessner, who won the award for Outstanding Original Score for an Independent Film with his composition for Train Dreams. This recognition reflects the growing appreciation for independent cinema and its unique contributions to storytelling through music. The event also celebrated the collaboration between Göransson and director Ryan Coogler, who jointly received the Spirit of Collaboration Award for their synergistic work on Sinners.
Television triumphs
In television, composer Theodore Shapiro was recognized for his outstanding score for the critically acclaimed series Severance. His ability to weave emotion into storytelling through music was particularly highlighted in this award. Additionally, Cristóbal Tapia de Veer won the award for Outstanding Original Title Sequence for a Television Production with his work on The White Lotus, emphasizing the importance of opening themes in enhancing the viewer’s experience.
A tribute to cinematic history
The SCL also honored the 50th anniversary of the iconic film Rocky. A musical tribute, conducted by Academy Award-winning composer Bill Conti, evoked memories of the film’s powerful score, reinforcing its lasting impact on cinema and music. Conti, who scored multiple films in the franchise, led a performance of the renowned theme Gonna Fly Now, further emphasizing the film’s legacy.
In a heartfelt moment dedicated to those who have passed, singer Melissa Manchester performed I’ll Never Say Goodbye, a song she co-wrote for the 1979 film The Promise. This poignant segment acknowledged the contributions of the late Alan Bergman, celebrated for his lasting influence on film music.
Full list of winners
The evening concluded with the announcement of the full list of winners, showcasing a plethora of talent:
- Outstanding Original Score for a Studio Film: Ludwig Göransson –Sinners
- Outstanding Original Score for an Independent Film: Bryce Dessner –Train Dreams
- Outstanding Original Song for a Dramatic or Documentary Visual Media Production: Raphael Saadiq & Ludwig Göransson –I Lied to You–Sinners
- Outstanding Original Song for a Comedy or Musical Visual Media Production: EJAE & Mark Sonnenblick –Golden–KPop Demon Hunters
- Outstanding Original Title Sequence for a Television Production: Cristobal Tapia De Veer –The White Lotus
- Outstanding Original Score for a Television Production: Theodore Shapiro –Severance
- Outstanding Original Score for Interactive Media: Austin Wintory –Sword of the Sea
- David Raksin Award for Emerging Talent: Chin-shan Chang –Laws of Man
This year’s SCL Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the collaborative spirit essential to the artistry of music composition, inspiring attendees for the future of film and television music.