The Emmy Awards Signal a New Era: Music’s Expanding Role in Television
The 2025 Emmy nominations reveal a striking trend: music isn’t just part of television anymore, it’s increasingly a driving force behind its most celebrated moments. From Kendrick Lamar’s back-to-back Super Bowl recognition to Beyoncé’s multiple nods for her groundbreaking “Renaissance” tour film, the lines between concert experience, visual storytelling, and televised event are blurring – and the Emmys are taking notice. This isn’t a fleeting moment; it’s a fundamental shift in how we consume and reward entertainment.
The Super Bowl Effect: Halftime Shows as Emmy Contenders
Kendrick Lamar’s nomination for Outstanding Music Direction and Outstanding Variety Special (Live) for his Super Bowl LIX halftime show isn’t an isolated incident. His previous Emmy win in 2022 for Super Bowl LVI proves the Academy is actively recognizing the artistic and technical achievement inherent in these large-scale performances. The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved from a musical interlude to a cultural event, demanding the same level of production value and creative vision as any other televised special. This trend suggests we’ll see even more emphasis on the musical direction and overall spectacle of future halftime shows, with artists and producers aiming for Emmy recognition alongside critical and commercial success.
Beyoncé vs. Jay-Z: A Power Couple’s Emmy Rivalry
The friendly competition between Beyoncé and Jay-Z in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category – Beyoncé for “The Beyoncé Bowl” and Jay-Z as an executive producer alongside Beyoncé – highlights another key dynamic. The rise of artist-led productions, where musicians take on creative control and executive roles, is gaining momentum. Beyoncé’s additional nomination for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special further underscores this point. This signals a move away from traditional television production models and towards a more integrated, artist-centric approach. Expect to see more musicians stepping into directorial and producing roles, blurring the lines between performer and creator.
Beyond Pop: Jazz, Composition, and the Expanding Definition of “Variety”
The nominations aren’t limited to mainstream pop. Kamasi Washington’s nod for his title theme for Adult Swim’s Lazarus, and Caroline Shaw’s recognition for her score for Ken Burns’ Leonardo da Vinci, demonstrate the Emmys’ broadening scope. The inclusion of composers like Hans Zimmer and Mark Mothersbaugh, alongside figures like Hamilton Leithauser and Mark Ronson, illustrates a growing appreciation for diverse musical styles and their impact on visual media. This expansion of the “Variety” category is crucial, acknowledging that compelling storytelling isn’t confined to traditional formats.
The Rise of the Composer as Storyteller
Caroline Shaw’s nomination is particularly noteworthy. A Pulitzer Prize winner already, her pursuit of an Emmy signifies a growing prestige for composers in the television landscape. As streaming services invest heavily in original content, the demand for high-quality scores and original music is increasing. This creates opportunities for composers to become integral parts of the storytelling process, shaping the emotional impact of a series or film. ASCAP highlights the increasing importance of music in driving audience engagement.
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson: The Multi-Hyphenate Emmy Nominee
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s three nominations – for directing, music direction, and a documentary special – exemplify the modern entertainment professional. He’s not just a musician; he’s a director, curator, and storyteller. This multi-hyphenate approach is becoming increasingly common, as artists leverage their creative talents across multiple platforms. His success underscores the value of versatility and the ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Television?
The 2025 Emmy nominations aren’t just about celebrating individual achievements; they’re about recognizing a fundamental shift in the television landscape. Music is no longer an afterthought; it’s a central component of the viewing experience. We can expect to see more artists taking on creative control, more emphasis on live performance as televised event, and a continued blurring of the lines between music, film, and television. The Emmys are adapting to this new reality, and the future of television will undoubtedly be shaped by the power of music. What are your predictions for the evolving role of music in televised events? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
