Queen Latifah’s Jaw-Dropping Oscars Tribute—You Won’t Believe Who Introduced Her!

Queen Latifah lit up the stage at the 2025 Academy Awards with a dazzling performance of the iconic song “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz, as part of a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Quincy Jones. The performance was a highlight of the evening, showcasing Latifah’s powerful vocals while honoring the immense impact Jones had on music and film.

Dressed in a stunning gold gown, Latifah commanded the stage surrounded by a dynamic group of dancers, embodying the energy and vibrance of the song. Her rendition of the Wiz classic was a captivating moment, as she belted out the memorable tune with passion and precision. The segment was introduced by two of Hollywood’s most influential figures, Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, who paid tribute to Jones’ groundbreaking legacy in the music industry.

Goldberg took the opportunity to highlight Jones’ remarkable achievements, including his historic nomination in 1967 as the first Black composer nominated in the Original Song category. “When we talk about Black excellence, we’re talking about Quincy,” Goldberg stated, underlining how Jones paved the way for future generations of Black artists in both the music and film industries.

The tribute to Jones came just months after his passing on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91. Jones was a towering figure in music, with a staggering 28 Grammy Awards to his name, and he is revered for his contributions as a producer, songwriter, and bandleader. His work spanned across genres and mediums, including his compositions for films such as The Color Purple, In Cold Blood, and The Wiz. His influence on both the music and entertainment industries remains unmatched, and the tribute at the Oscars was a fitting celebration of his illustrious career.

Earlier in the evening, the Oscars also featured a star-studded tribute to the James Bond franchise, with performances by Blackpink’s Lisa, Doja Cat, and Raye. Additionally, a medley of songs inspired by The Wizard of Oz was performed by Wicked co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, bringing even more musical magic to the night.

But it was Latifah’s heartfelt and high-energy performance that truly stood out as a celebration of Jones’ life and work. Her tribute served as a reminder of the lasting influence of Quincy Jones, not only as a musical genius but also as a trailblazer for Black excellence in the entertainment world.

@fandango Queen Latifah delivers a beautiful tribute to Quincy Jones with her rendition of ‘Ease On Down The Road’ from #TheWiz at the #Oscars. #movietok #filmtok #awardseason #awardsseason #queenlatifa #quincyjones #easeondowntheroad ♬ original sound – Fandango