35 Years & 14 Nominations Later, Diane Warren’s Best Song OSCAR Losing Streak Continues

As far as songwriters go, few can challenge the extensive, hit-filled resume of Diane Warren.

Having written songs for Cher, Whitney Houston, Mary J. Blige, Brandy, Monica, Aaliyah, Celine Dion, Toni Braxton, Aretha Franklin, and many other big names in music over her 40-year career, Warren is lauded by many as “the songwriter of songwriters.”

The crowning appears to be one the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (the organization that awards OSCARs) agrees with as she has been nominated for Best Original Song more than any other solo female songwriter in history.

Yet, in a continuation of her shocking but historic losing streak, the 66-year-old has lost in another competitive category.

Nominated for her tune ‘Applause‘ (found aboard the soundtrack of the film ‘Tell It Like a Woman’) at the 95th annual Academy Awards Sunday night (March 12), Diane – alongside competitors Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and Ryan Lott – watched M.M. Keeravaani and Chandrabose accept the prize for their ‘RRR‘ song ‘Naatu Naatu.’

Marking the 14th loss of Warren’s career, the defeat comes 35 years after her first nod: ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now’ from the ‘Mannequin‘ film at the 1988 OSCARs.

At least the legendary songwriter can boast ownership of an honorary Academy Award, which she was awarded at the 13th Governors Awards in 2022. As far as competitive OSCARs go, however, she maintains the record for most nominations and no wins: 0-14.

See the full list of 2023 Academy Award winners here.

[main photo sources: Getty]