Top 10 Movie Songs That Made the Scene Better

“Boogie Nights” (1997)
To start off this epic character piece, director Paul Thomas Anderson crafts an impressive shot. He also chooses the song “Best of My Love” by The Emotions. The track sends you right to the disco era, giving this lively opening a boost of energy. You really feel like you’re entering a vintage club in the San Fernando Valley, walking next to talented stars. The camera moves and music are a match made in heaven, as the classic 1970s song makes the introduction extra stylish. “Boogie Nights” sets the tone right away with its nostalgic soundtrack.

“Rocky III” (1982)
It goes without saying, but this Survivor single is synonymous with the “Rocky” franchise. It feels like no montage is quite as intense without it. As Rocky Balboa becomes a big-time fighter, “Eye of the Tiger” serves as his own personal theme. It’s a quintessential 1980s song for a movie series that took over the decade. While the banger is fun on its own, it’s hard to divorce it from exciting boxing moments. We also can’t forget Mr. T showing up as the formidable opponent Clubber Lang. We might want to copy the prize fighter and use this track for our next workout.

“American Psycho” (2000)
Among many things, Patrick Bateman is a music fan. He decides to broach the subject with his ill-fated house guest. This darkly funny scene from “American Psycho” starts with a serious discussion about Huey Lewis and the News. Bateman hypnotizes us with his words, but also makes us feel the dread of impending doom. The song gives the scene an edge that only adds to the anti-hero’s complex persona. Blending horror and humor, the film makes the audience squirm even more with this musical decision. We really can’t ask for much more.

“The Graduate” (1967)
Without any dialogue, director Mike Nichols captures the boredom of post-graduate life. He chooses to do so with a little help from Simon & Garfunkel. “April Come She Will” is both melancholic and poetic, underscoring the images of Ben contemplating his situation. The song also transitions the story from a comic start to a more complicated second part. As the lyrics reference spring, viewers come to realize that not all relationships last. It’s an underrated scene that captures the complexity of a timeless story. With the main affair coming to a close, the hero and his journey are undergoing major changes with this clever cue.

“Blue Velvet” (1986)
One of the many twists and turns of “Blue Velvet,” this strange scene comes out of nowhere. Villain Frank Booth takes hero Jeffrey to Ben’s place. Then, Dean Stockwell’s character serenades everyone in a haunting scene. David Lynch makes the awesome song choice, blending an ironic tone with a sinister sequence. Honestly, we’re not sure whether to be mesmerized or terrified. Lynch’s vision of the criminal underworld comes into clear focus with help from the tune. As the performer lip syncs, we’re on the edge of our seats wondering what could happen next.

“Trainspotting” (1996)
There is some truly amazing music in this fan-favorite Danny Boyle flick. One example is pairing Renton’s substance use with this Lou Reed track. Ushered in by the singer’s calming voice, dark images play against dreamy lyrics. Watching it, we kind of feel like we’re falling into the void, forced to confront awful circumstances. “Perfect Day” is an ironic choice that punctuates the dangers of the situation. It helps people find hope in a scary scene, giving another reason to choose life. “Trainspotting” uses an alt icon’s words to carry the offbeat moments and morbid subject matter to magnetic effect.

“Say Anything...” (1989)
This one might have become a cliché, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost any power. The instantly recognizable scene from “Say Anything…” still tugs at the heartstrings. John Cusack’s Lloyd tries to win back Diane, using a boombox and a fantastic song. He chooses Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” letting the romantic music do the talking. It’s become an important cultural reference, delivering a simple and effective message. The beautiful composition works so well that the lead actor only makes it better. For most romcoms, sometimes that’s all you need to win the audience over.

“Wayne’s World” (1992)
Instead of wasting the audience’s time, “Wayne’s World” wows them with a song. The opening credits features some classic rock to liven things up. The gang ride around listening to Queen, sending viewers on an incredibly entertaining musical journey. They sing along through the epic track and its many sections. By the big finale, we’re head banging along with them. It’s a great way to showcase the characters and their undying love for music. In what could’ve been a forgettable movie, the filmmakers engineer an iconic sequence to please fans of the “SNL” sketches and beyond.

“The Breakfast Club” (1985)
How else could you end a classic from the 1980s? This John Hughes movie goes out with a bang, letting the characters have one last goodbye before the credits. “Don't You (Forget About Me)” contains relatable lyrics, with the fates of each student left up in the air. The Simple Minds track lets them all exit in style. Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the last shot, where Bender delivers the coolest fist pump. We hope that he and his fellow detention buddies stay friends after everything. The song captures the upbeat nature of the end, but it also makes you wonder about Monday morning.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Tom Cruise Enjoys a Solo Dance

Emma Thompson Lets Her Tears Flow

A Ridiculous Fight Scene Only Gets Better with This Cover

Star-Lord Shows off His Dance Skills

This Bus Scene Features a Heartfelt Singalong

“Goodfellas” (1990)
In most of Martin Scorsese’s movies, the director shows off his skill for choosing the right song for the right moment. Nobody else would’ve thought that “Layla” could play over a montage of death. Yet the Derek and the Dominos hit provides an emotional counterpoint for this pivotal sequence in “Goodfellas.” As the piano and guitar roar on, various gangsters show up dead before Tommy’s fate is revealed. Scorsese ultimately lets the famous coda ring out like a musical eulogy. It’s a moving use of the music, pushing the classic into even more iconic territory.


Did we forget a needle drop that enhanced a film scene? Let us know in the comments below.