In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, renowned record producer and songwriter Mark Ronson expressed his desire to see actor Ryan Gosling perform his hit Barbie song 'I'm Just Ken' at the 2024 Oscars. Ronson, who is best known for his collaborations with various artists, including Lady Gaga on the chart-topping hit 'Shallow' from A Star Is Born, believes that Gosling's live rendition of the Oscar-nominated song would be a treat for fans.
When asked about the possibility of Gosling performing the song at the Oscars, Ronson stated, 'It really is Ryan's call. Of course I'm dying to do it, and I think everybody would love him to sing the song once live, you know?' Although Ronson remains hopeful, he acknowledges that the decision ultimately rests with Gosling.
During this year's Grammys red carpet event, Ronson shared his enthusiasm for Gosling's involvement, calling it his 'dream.' When asked about the possibility of a substitute singer performing the song if Gosling declines, Ronson responded, 'I think if Ryan doesn't do it, then we're not doing it.' Clearly, Ronson believes that Gosling's performance is essential to the success of the song.
'I'm Just Ken,' which was co-written by Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, received a nomination for the Best Song category at the 2024 Grammy Awards. The song, along with 'What Was I Made For?' by Billie Eilish and Finneas, was recognized for its contribution to visual media. Eilish and Finneas ultimately took home the award. However, the film Barbie, which generated a massive $1.5 billion in revenue in the United States alone, received eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and a nomination for Gosling as Best Actor in a Supporting Role.
It is worth noting that the film received some controversy for not securing nominations for Best Director (Greta Gerwig) or Best Actress in a Leading Role (Margot Robbie). Despite this, Ronson remains hopeful for the future of Barbie, expressing his desire to see it adapted into a musical. At the 2024 Critics Choice Awards, Ronson mentioned that he would 'absolutely' love to be involved in such a project but is waiting for the call.
Reflecting on the creative process behind 'I'm Just Ken,' Ronson described the script as 'so inspiring' and expressed his excitement over the song's development. He admitted that merging music and comedy had always been a challenge, but this time it worked seamlessly. Witnessing Gosling's performance further fueled Ronson's enthusiasm, leading him to comment, 'Oh my God, we're going to have to dress the song up in the equivalent of a white mink and two sunglasses.' To enhance its appeal, Ronson even reached out to legendary guitarist Slash for additional musical finesse.
During his acceptance speech for the Best Song award at the Critics Choice Awards, Ronson made sure to acknowledge Gosling's contribution to the success of 'I'm Just Ken.' He stated, 'Ryan Gosling, this is as much your award as ours. You made the audience fall in love with this song with your matchless performance, so thank you.'
With one Best Song Oscar already under his belt, courtesy of 'Shallow,' Ronson's anticipation for Gosling's potential performance at the 2024 Oscars is understandable. However, it remains to be seen whether Gosling will take on the role of Ken onstage. Fans will have to wait and see if Gosling will grace the Oscars with his musical talents and give the world a live rendition of the catchy and beloved Barbie song, 'I'm Just Ken.'
