Oscars 2016: Sam Smith Performs James Bond Theme "Writing’s on the Wall"

Photo by Mark Ralston / AFP / Getty Images

At tonight’s Oscars ceremony, Sam Smith performed his song “Writing’s on the Wall,” from the James Bond film Spectre. It’s one of the nominees for Best Original Song. “Writing’s on the Wall” was co-written by Smith and Jimmy Napes; it was produced by Disclosure. Watch video of the performance below. 

Smith was introduced by Sarah Silverman, who made jokes about sleeping with James Bond. After Smith’s performance, Chris Rock made a joke about confusing Smith with George Michael, saying “Father Figure” is his “favorite song.”

Earlier this year, “Writing’s on the Wall” won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song. In an interview after the win, he revealed that he hadn’t listened to Radiohead’s “Spectre,” which was originally written as a possible theme for the Bond movie. He also implied that he didn’t care to ever hear it.

Update (2/29, 9:49 a.m.): In a backstage interview with the BBC, Smith gave himself low marks for the performance. ”It was the worst moment of my life,” he said. “Singing was horrible. I hated every minute.”

Read “What Music Fans Need to Know About the 2016 Oscars” on the Pitch.

Watch the music video for “Writing’s on the Wall”:

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