Months after its release, the duet rendition of Defying Gravity by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo is experiencing a remarkable resurgence on the United Kingdom’s music charts. Thanks to a show-stopping performance at the 2025 Academy Awards, the song has re-entered multiple rankings, proving once again the enduring appeal of Wicked and the powerful vocals of its two stars.

A Stunning Chart Comeback

Grande and Erivo’s Defying Gravity was originally released in the fall of 2024 as part of the Wicked movie’s highly anticipated soundtrack. Upon its debut, the song climbed to impressive heights on several UK charts, peaking at No. 3 on the Official Singles Downloads Chart and No. 4 on the broader Official Singles Sales Chart. Over time, as new music releases dominated the charts, its position gradually declined.

However, the 2025 Academy Awards provided the perfect moment for the song’s resurgence. Following their electrifying performance at the ceremony, Defying Gravity re-entered multiple UK charts, demonstrating a renewed wave of popularity among fans:

• Official Singles Downloads Chart: The track made a strong reappearance at No. 51, reflecting a rise in digital purchases.
• Official Singles Sales Chart: It secured the No. 55 position, signaling broader sales activity, including physical copies.
• Official Streaming Chart: The song re-entered at No. 90, proving that streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music had also surged.

This multi-platform comeback showcases the lasting appeal of Defying Gravity and the immense influence of live performances on music consumption.

The Academy Awards Performance That Stole the Show

The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, kicked off with a breathtaking medley from Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Their performance, which blended classic Broadway elements with modern cinematic grandeur, captivated audiences and set social media ablaze.

The duo’s set paid tribute to The Wizard of Oz and its adaptations, featuring a carefully curated selection of iconic tracks:

• Ariana Grande’s “Over the Rainbow”: Grande, dressed in a sparkling red gown reminiscent of Dorothy’s ruby slippers, delivered a heartfelt rendition of the Wizard of Oz classic. Her signature airy vocals and emotional depth made for a stunning opening.
• Cynthia Erivo’s “Home”: Erivo, wearing a white-to-green ombré gown symbolizing Elphaba’s transformation, performed The Wiz classic with raw power and emotion. Her ability to command the stage with sheer vocal prowess was on full display.
• Duet Performance of “Defying Gravity”: The highlight of the medley was their joint performance of Defying Gravity, one of the most beloved numbers from Wicked. The chemistry between the two stars, combined with their impeccable harmonies, left the audience in awe, culminating in a well-deserved standing ovation.

This performance not only celebrated the cinematic adaptation of Wicked but also reminded audiences worldwide why the musical has remained a cultural phenomenon for decades.

The Influence of Wicked and Its Cinematic Success

The Wicked film adaptation, released in November 2024, has been nothing short of a global success story.

• Box Office Triumph: The film has grossed over $700 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing musical adaptations in cinematic history.
• Critical Acclaim: Both Grande and Erivo received widespread praise for their portrayals of Glinda and Elphaba, with critics highlighting their ability to bring fresh depth and nuance to the iconic roles.
• Academy Award Nominations: The film earned 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Actress for Erivo and Best Supporting Actress for Grande, cementing their performances as award-worthy.

As the Wicked phenomenon continues, its influence on music charts, fan engagement, and pop culture remains as strong as ever.

How Live Performances Impact Music Consumption

The resurgence of Defying Gravity following Grande and Erivo’s Oscar performances is a prime example of how live music performances can directly influence audience engagement and music consumption.

• Renewed Interest: Live performances can introduce songs to new audiences while also reminding existing fans of tracks they may have forgotten.
• Chart Resurgence: A strong live performance, particularly on a high-profile stage like the Oscars, can propel a song back onto streaming and sales charts.
• Social Media and Viral Moments: Major performances often go viral, sparking conversations, meme culture, and renewed interest across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter.

This cycle of performance-driven resurgence is a testament to the enduring power of live music, especially when backed by star power and cultural relevance.

The Lasting Legacy of “Defying Gravity”

Originally introduced in the Broadway production of Wicked in 2003, Defying Gravity has since become one of the most iconic songs in musical theater history. Its message of empowerment, self-discovery, and breaking free from constraints resonates with audiences worldwide.

• Cover versions and tributes: Over the years, countless artists have covered Defying Gravity, each bringing their own interpretation to the song.
• Presence in Pop Culture: The track has been featured in television shows, commercials, and even political movements, reinforcing its universal themes.
• Emotional and Inspirational Impact: The song’s lyrics encourage audiences to rise above challenges, making it a popular choice for motivational events, graduations, and personal anthems.

Grande and Erivo’s version, enhanced by their powerhouse vocals and cinematic storytelling, has added yet another unforgettable chapter to the song’s history.

Conclusion

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s 2025 Academy Awards performance of Defying Gravity was more than just an opening act—it was a cultural moment that reignited passion for Wicked, propelled the song back onto the charts, and showcased the power of live music to captivate audiences.

The film’s success, combined with the duo’s chemistry and vocal excellence, has solidified their place in the legacy of Wicked. As fans continue streaming, purchasing, and celebrating their rendition, Defying Gravity remains an anthem of empowerment that transcends generations.

With the Wicked franchise showing no signs of slowing down, it’s clear that Grande and Erivo have left an indelible mark on the musical’s ever-expanding universe.