Watch Rihanna’s performance of “Lift Me Up” at the Oscars

Rihanna’s performance in Super Bowl LVII may have drawn some (unfair) compliments to the FCC, there is no one complaining about her performance during tonight’s (March 12) 2023 Academy Awards. Dazzling with impeccably jeweled costumes and pregnancy bliss performed by “Lift Me Up”. Wakanda 2: Wakanda forever.

The moving tribute track to the late actor Chadwick Boseman brought the entertainer out of musical retirement. With her full baby bump, Rihanna took the stage, which was built to resemble the stunning nature shots in the film. Supported by a full orchestra and a variety of backing singers, the singer belted out the song’s emotional lyrics, which earned a standing ovation upon completion.

Watch the full performance of “Lift Me Up” below.

When asked what went into creating the tribute track, co-writer Tems said, “After speaking to him [director Ryan Coogler] and when I heard his direction for the film and the song, I wanted to write something that would be a warm hug to all the people I’ve lost in my life. I tried to imagine how it would feel if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them. Rihanna was an inspiration to me, so it’s a great honor to hear her perform this song.”