The 2026 Oscars brought a show-stopping moment when a live tribute to Sinners — featuring Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq — recreated the film’s raucous juke-joint scene and left parts of the audience on their feet. It was one of the night’s most talked-about musical segments and highlighted why the film’s music is a major awards contender.
What happened on stage
Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq performed “I Lied to You,” the song nominated for best original song from the film Sinners. The live set expanded into a large, collaborative sequence that echoed the movie’s opening juke-joint performance.
Who joined them
The stage was crowded with well-known performers and fellow cast members. Dancers and musicians such as Misty Copeland, Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram appeared alongside singers Shaboozey and Alice Smith. Sinners stars Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li and Jack O’Connell also surprised the audience by appearing, helping to recreate the film’s ensemble energy.
Why it mattered
The sequence underscored the film’s argument that Black music is foundational to American popular culture — a theme shown in the movie when a Mississippi juke joint blues number opens into a celebration mixing hip-hop DJs, rock guitarists and ballet. Beyond its cinematic impact, the live staging doubled as an awards moment: “I Lied to You” is up for best original song, and composer Ludwig Göransson is nominated for original score.
Reaction and buzz
The crowd response was immediate and enthusiastic. There was sustained applause and a number of standing ovations after the performance. One notable reaction came from Michael B. Jordan, who watched and gave what observers described as a nod and a smile — an unmistakable seal of approval from one of the film’s champions.
Industry watchers and viewers on social platforms quickly labeled the sequence one of the night’s highlights. The combination of veteran musicians, contemporary acts and the movie’s cast made the moment feel both celebratory and cinematic, sparking conversation about how live awards performances can amplify a film’s storytelling.
What to expect next
The Oscars ceremony will continue with more awards and tributes later in the broadcast. For Sinners, the live performance may increase attention on its music nominations; whether that translates to trophies will be revealed as winners are announced.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.