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Interscope/Paramount Pictures

Interscope/Paramount PicturesElton John‘s biopic Rocketman didn’t fare too well this morning as the Academy Awards nominations were announced, but Elton himself came out on top.  He and Bernie Taupin received a nod for Best Original Song for “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again,” the end credits song they wrote for the film.

The song has already picked up a Golden Globe, and Sunday night, it tied for Best Original Song at the Critics’ Choice Awards, so it’s heading into the Oscars with some decent momentum.

In a statement, Bernie said, “Thank you very much to the Academy for this incredible honor. This Rocketman journey has been one of the highlights of my life and I’m grateful to be sharing this honor with my longtime friend and collaborator, Elton.” 

He added, “We have personally and professionally supported each other for decades, and my goal in writing these lyrics was to honor his legacy, strength, and perseverance as both an icon and compassionate friend. To think that what started as a chance encounter over five decades ago in a London diner would take us both on the journey of a lifetime is beyond even my imagination.”

Elton’s already won an Oscar, for co-writing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” for The Lion King with Tim Rice.

Elton and Bernie’s competition in the category includes “I Can’t Let You Throw Yourself Away” from Toy Story 4, written by Randy Newman; “I’m Standing With You” from Breakthrough, written by Diane Warren; “Into the Unknown” from Frozen II; and “Stand Up,” from Harriet, co-written by Harriet star Cynthia Erivo.

Newman, who, like John, is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, also received a Best Original Score nomination for his work on Marriage Story.

The 92nd Annual Academy Awards air live on ABC February 9.  For the second year in a row, there won’t be a host.

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