The 6th annual Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL) Awards took place at the Skirball Center in Los Angeles, celebrating the incredible artistry, achievements, and resilience of its vibrant community. This year’s ceremony was particularly poignant, as it not only honored the remarkable work of composers and lyricists but also acknowledged the challenges faced by the community, including the devastating fires that recently impacted Los Angeles. The event was a powerful reminder of the strength and hope that binds the SCL family together. Among the standout winners were Kris Bowers, Trent Reznor, and Atticus Ross, who were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the world of music and film.
Kris Bowers, the composer behind the animated film The Wild Robot, took home the award for Outstanding Original Score for a Studio Film. Bowers, known for his work on projects like Green Book and Bridgerton, has consistently demonstrated his versatility and talent in crafting music that resonates deeply with audiences. His win for The Wild Robot highlights his ability to create scores that are both imaginative and emotionally stirring. Meanwhile, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the iconic duo behind Nine Inch Nails, continued their winning streak. They were awarded the Outstanding Original Song for a Comedy or Musical Visual Media Production for their track “Compress/Repress” from the film Challengers. This marks yet another milestone in their illustrious careers, which have been defined by their innovative and hauntingly beautiful compositions. Ross also received additional recognition for his work on the television series Shogun, further cementing his status as one of the most talented composers in the industry today.
The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of other accomplished artists. Daniel Blumberg won the Outstanding Original Score for an Independent Film for his work on The Brutalist, a film released by A24. Blumberg’s score captured the essence of the film’s complex and atmospheric narrative, showcasing his ability to elevate storytelling through music. Legendary songwriter Diane Warren was honored with the Outstanding Original Song for a Dramatic or Documentary Visual Media Production for her song “The Journey” from the Netflix film The Six Triple Eight. This victory marked her third SCL Award, solidifying her legacy as one of the most celebrated songwriters of her time. Her ability to craft emotionally resonant and impactful lyrics has made her a fixture in the music and film industries for decades.
One of the most heartfelt moments of the evening came with the presentation of the Spirit of Collaboration Award to composer Harry Gregson-Williams and director Ridley Scott. Their partnership has spanned seven films, including Gladiator II, The Martian, and Kingdom of Heaven, and is a testament to the magic that happens when creative minds come together. Past recipients of this award include other legendary duos such as Thomas Newman and Sam Mendes, and Carter Burwell and the Coen Brothers, further highlighting the prestige of this honor. Gregson-Williams and Scott’s collaboration has yielded some of the most iconic scores in cinema history, and their recognition at the SCL Awards was a celebration of their enduring partnership and contribution to the art form.
The SCL Jury Award was presented to Jeff Beal for his work on the 1920 silent film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari. Beal premiered and performed his score live at Carnegie Hall in June, bringing new life to this cinematic masterpiece. His interpretation of the film’s haunting and surreal atmosphere was met with critical acclaim, and his win serves as a reminder of the timeless power of silent films and the importance of live musical performances in preserving their legacy. Beal’s work not only pays homage to the original film but also introduces it to a new generation of audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of cinematic history.
In a moving speech, SCL President Ashley Irwin reflected on the challenges faced by the community, particularly the recent fires that ravaged Los Angeles and deeply impacted many members of the SCL. He emphasized the resilience and hope that define the spirit of the organization. “As we celebrate the dedication and creativity of our fellow composers and lyricists, we also reflect on the larger context of hardship and loss that surrounds us,” Irwin said. “The catastrophic fires have left an indelible mark on our city, its residents, and our community. Yet, in this adversity, we find strength, and we find inspiration.” Irwin’s words encapsulated the essence of the SCL Awards, which are not only a celebration of artistic achievement but also a testament to the collective strength and solidarity of the community. The event served as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, creativity and collaboration can inspire hope and resilience.
The full list of 2025 SCL Awards winners included other notable honorees such as Jeff Toyne for the Outstanding Original Title Sequence for the Apple TV+ series Palm Royale, and Winifred Phillips for her work on the interactive media project Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord. Andrea Datzman was also recognized with the David Raksin Award for Emerging Talent for her work on Inside Out 2. These winners, along with the others, represent the incredible diversity and talent within the SCL community. As the ceremony came to a close, it was clear that the 6th annual SCL Awards was not just a celebration of individual accomplishments but a collective ode to the power of music, collaboration, and resilience in the face of challenge.
