The Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL) has unveiled the nominees for its prestigious 2025 SCL Awards, an event dedicated to honoring excellence and innovation within the realm of music composed for visual media. Leading the nominations are the dynamic duo of composers Clément Ducol and Camille, alongside Atticus Ross from the film Challengers and Shōgun, each of whom has secured three nominations. The SCL Awards, now in its sixth year, will take place on February 12 in Los Angeles and promises to showcase the very best talent in the industry.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming ceremony, it has been revealed that Colin Hay, the beloved frontman of the iconic band Men at Work, will serve as the host for the evening. Additionally, the awards will feature a significant honor to be presented to Harry Gregson-Williams, the composer behind the much-acclaimed Gladiator II score, alongside legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott. The duo will be awarded the 2025 Spirit of Collaboration Award, a tribute to their longstanding creative partnership that has produced an impressive body of work, including notable films like The Martian, Kingdom of Heaven, and House of Gucci.
Gregson-Williams expressed gratitude in his statement regarding the award, emphasizing the unique nature of his collaborative relationship with Scott. He noted that Ridley’s approach to music differs from most directors; rather than dictating strict musical directions, Scott offers insights that revolve around visual themes such as light, darkness, and texture. This creative freedom allows Gregson-Williams to interpret Scott’s vision musically, culminating in scores that resonate deeply with audiences.
Last year, the SCL took a heartfelt moment to honor Martin Scorsese, who accepted the 2024 Spirit of Collaboration Award on behalf of his late friend and collaborator, Robbie Robertson. This highlights how the awards not only acknowledge current talent but also celebrate the legacies of influential figures within the industry. Moreover, the SCL Jury Award for the outstanding score of the silent film classic, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, will be awarded to five-time Emmy-winning composer Jeff Beal, underscoring the enduring impact of timeless cinema on contemporary music.
Reflecting on the success of the previous year, the SCL Awards recognized incredible achievements, with notable winners including music from the films Oppenheimer and Barbie, both of which captured the esteemed titles of Best Picture and Best Original Score, respectively. As the 2025 nominations are discussed and celebrated, the awards continue to be a barometer of excellence in film music, forging new pathways and illuminating the vital role music plays in storytelling.
The upcoming SCL Awards are positioned not just as a festive occasion but as a critical platform celebrating the intersecting artistry of music and film, highlighting the extraordinary talents that shape our cinematic experiences. As February approaches, the excitement grows for an event that promises both recognition and a meaningful exploration of the art of musical composition in visual storytelling.