Movies have had an enduring relationship with music since their inception, offering viewers an immersive entertainment experience. Over the years, cinema has birthed some memorable melodies that transcend the film, garnering widespread popularity. These tunes are more than the “background noise” – they establish emotional connections, define eras, and even become cultural phenomenons. In this article, we countdown our top 10 unforgettable movie songs that will keep you hooked long after the credits roll.
10. “Let It Go” (Frozen, 2013)
“Let It Go” became Idina Menzel and Disney’s magnum opus as it propelled onto radio stations worldwide. Written by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, the song is one that empowered millions with messages of self-love, inner beauty, and letting go of self-limiting beliefs.
9. “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” (Dirty Dancing, 1987)
Featuring Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes in their duet masterpiece “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” the iconic synth-pop hit transcended the movie, securing itself as a dance classic by Frankie Valli a few years later.
8. “Candy Man” (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, 1971)
Album veteran Sammy Davis, Jr. gave a remarkable live rendition of this swing piece from the original Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory – leaving an indelible stain in children’s memories around the candy man’s mystery while paying homage to classic roots music.
7. “Take A Chance On Me” (Mamma Mia!, 2008)
This catchy and spirited tune from Swedish-legendary ABBA proved that even over decades since its inception and its fourth screen adaptation, songs full of charm and humor are both evergreen and endlessly remunerative.
6. “Baby Driver” Theme Song (Baby Driver, 2017)
Forgoing conventional song choices and producing originals is always risky; however, in Baby Driver’s case, it hit on pure gold with music licenser-cum-musician, superlative Edgar Wright carefully weaving the tunes. Simultaneously, we give two thumbs up to their own original composition and star-of-the-story-Ansel Elgort’s captivating presence throughout the film.
5. “It’s Raining Men” (Welcome to the Dollhouse, 1988)
In a different stroke, 1980’s movie disco anthem, “It’s Raining Men” came blaring out of speakers – courtesy of the dance satire, Welcome to the Dollhouse. With a comeback during the Pride