On a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live, musician Raphael Saadiq, actor Miles Caton, and producer Ludwig Göransson captivated audiences with their performance of “I Lied to You.” This song is featured in the acclaimed film Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler. The live rendition showcased Caton’s vocal talent, highlighting the emotional depth of the blues track.
Stripped-Back Performance Highlights Talent
During the performance, Saadiq and Göransson opted for a minimalist production approach. This choice allowed the focus to remain firmly on the song itself, enhancing the impact of Caton’s vocals, accompanied by a group of backup singers. In Sinners, Caton portrays Samuel “Sammie” Moore, an aspiring blues singer navigating the challenges of the Mississippi Delta in 1932.
Göransson, who composed the film’s score, played a pivotal role in developing its soundtrack. This includes several original songs featuring performances by cast members such as Jack O’Connell and Lola Kirke. Saadiq co-wrote “I Lied to You” alongside Göransson, bringing a unique blend of musical expertise to the project.
Reflecting on the songwriting process, Saadiq noted, “In a modern time where people have a lot of outboard gear and different compressors, it doesn’t matter what you have, it’s really in the fingers. It’s in the hands. It’s in the mind of the person that’s doing it. I was playing an acoustic guitar in Ludwig’s studio, and we jammed for a second. I wrote the lyrics on the spot right there, and recorded everything that night.”
Accolades and Recognition for ‘Sinners’
The accolades for Sinners continue to grow. In December, the Academy announced that “I Lied to You” made the Oscars shortlist for Best Original Song. Additionally, another track from the film, “Last Time (I Seen the Sun),” also received recognition on the same list.
On January 7, 2024, Sinners won the Audience Award at the Golden Globes, marking a significant achievement as it was the debut year for this category. The film has been praised for its innovative storytelling, combining elements of horror, the blues, and Black history. Rolling Stone described it as “a victory for the most daring of the nominated films.”
During his acceptance speech, Coogler expressed gratitude to the audience, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the film’s unique vision. He stated, “Thank you for showing up,” emphasizing the importance of audience support in bringing such bold narratives to life.
As Sinners continues to receive critical acclaim, the collaboration between Saadiq, Caton, and Göransson highlights the powerful intersection of music and storytelling in cinema. The success of “I Lied to You” not only showcases their talents but also adds to the cultural significance of the film’s themes and historical context.
