Diane Warren: Oscar Nominee with a Record-Setting Streak

Diane Warren has achieved a remarkable milestone in the Oscars, earning her 16th nomination for the original song category with "The Journey" from the Netflix film "The Six Triple Eight." Despite her numerous nominations, Warren has yet to secure a competitive Oscar.

However, she has received an honorary Oscar in 2022. Warren remains optimistic about her chances this year, acknowledging her desire to break her long-standing tradition and finally win.

Her song faces competition from "El Mal" and "Mi Camino" from "Emilia Pérez," "Never Too Late" from "Elton John: Never Too Late," and "Like a Bird" from "Sing Sing."

A Full-Circle Moment with H.E.R.

Warren's collaboration with Gabby Wilson, known professionally as H.E.R., holds a special significance for her. The two share a lawyer and have known each other for years.

Producer Keri Selig introduced Warren to the film and its subject matter, inspiring her to write "The Journey." The film depicts the story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-female unit that served in Europe during World War II.

Warren was deeply moved by the film and found inspiration at the piano, resulting in the chorus of the song. She later surprised herself with the ease with which the rest of the lyrics came to her.

To find the ideal singer, Warren went through a casting process. Upon meeting H.E.R., she was impressed with her talent, despite being only 15 years old. They had planned to collaborate but never had the opportunity until this project.

When H.E.R. visited Warren's studio, she was immediately touched by the song. She performed a captivating vocal that left Warren in awe, comparing it to Whitney Houston's masterclasses.

Unsung Heroes and Timely Lyrics

The song reflects the resilience and determination of the unsung heroes featured in the film. Lyrics such as "All the times you thought you'd never make it through / Felt just like the world just turned its back on you / Didn't stop you" resonate with the current climate.

Warren's impressive body of work includes notable Oscar nominations for "Because You Loved Me" from "Up Close & Personal," "How Do I Live" from "Con Air," and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" from "Armageddon."

Despite her lack of competitive Oscars, Warren remains positive and hopeful. She acknowledges the possibility that the Academy may bestow upon her this long-awaited recognition, turning her 16th nomination into a sweet victory.