Though most of the tears shed at the Oscars come from victors accepting their trophies, the "In Memoriam" segment is always the saddest of the evening, when the members of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences who died during the past year are remembered.
This year the tribute honored recently deceased stars Jane Russell, Sidney Lumet, Farley Granger, and — of course — Whitney Houston and Elizabeth Taylor, among others. It was set to the beautiful singing voice of Grammy-winner Esperanza Spalding, backed by the Southern California Children's Choir. Spalding sang Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World" while black-and-white photographs of the deceased Hollywood figures filled the screen.
Apple executive Steve Jobs was also honored at the "In Memoriam" segment for his lesser-known work co-founding Pixar Animation Studios and producing Pixar's first film, Toy Story, directed by John Lasseter, in 1995.
Spalding will follow up her previous album, Chamber Music Society, with the upcoming Radio Music Society, slated for release in March.
In the meantime, you can hear Spalding's touching tribute here:
Like these? Check out:
2011 Grammy Awards: Who Is Esperanza Spalding?
2011 Grammy Award Winners: Lady Antebellum Sweeps, Arcade Fire Surprises
When asked what experience behind the scenes each one of them would take away from…
Karaganov's contentious viewpoints extend to the concept of Russia's genetic code, as he claims that…
The Miss USA pageant organizers released a statement of acknowledgment and respect for Voigt's decision.…
"Our amazing [Department of Corrections Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie], she is prepared for whatever comes on Rikers…
The Securities and Exchange Commission recently charged Trump Media's former auditor, BF Borgers CPA, with…
Pitt's lawyers presented Webb's declaration to demonstrate that Jolie herself employed NDAs, despite her objections…