Top 30 Songs That We Can't Separate from Movie Scenes

Top 30 Songs That We Cant Separate from Movie Scenes

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today were counting down our picks for the songs that have become synonymous with scenes from films.

#30: Time in a Bottle X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

Quicksilver is among the speediest Marvel superheroes around. However, his appearances in the X-Men movies wisely slow things down for us mere mortals. His debut appearance in Days of Future Past sees the mutant take down a kitchen full of guards, as Jim Croces 70s classic, Time in a Bottle plays. The contrast between the nearly frozen surroundings and Quicksilvers lighthearted, rapid-fire defense of the others helped make the scene an instant classic. Sure, Croces folk tune is sweet and tender, but it has become cemented in our collective minds as being the anthem of a speedster kicking butt. Quicksilver almost pulled it off again in the sequel with Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This), but that songs a bit more known from other things.

#29: I Say a Little PrayerMy Best Friends Wedding (1997)

There have been many singers associated with this R&B song, from Dionne Warwick, to Aretha Franklin, to Diana King, the last of which even features in this movie. However, the most memorable performance of I Say a Little Prayer is by actors. At a wedding lunch, George, who is pretending to be Jules fiancee, launches into a performance of the song. Hes soon joined by practically the whole wedding party, who manage to put on a surprisingly great rendition of the hit. Its almost like theyd rehearsed it beforehandRegardless, well think of this scene when we hear the song forever and ever.

#28: Canned HeatNapoleon Dynamite (2004)

English band Jamiroquai are famous enough in their own right, and have never let themselves be tied down by genre. However, perhaps their most famous song is Canned Heat, and probably from this scene alone. To promote his buddy Pedros class president campaign, the titular Napoleon Dynamite performs a dance set to Jamiroquais disco number. Napoleon seems to lose himself in the dance and his dorky, yet skilled moves inspire nearly everyone to vote for Pedro. The dance may have been improvised by actor Jon Heder in the moment, but its now forever impossible to separate from Canned Heat.

#27: Dont Stop Me NowShaun of the Dead (2004)

We doubt Freddy Mercury had a zombie comedy in mind when he wrote Dont Stop Me Now, but the upbeat rock anthem has nevertheless become associated with this cult classic. While trapped in a pub, Shaun and his friends are short on weapons and decide to use pool cues against the zombified bartender as Queens hit song plays on the jukebox. From their hits being timed along with the song to the improvised lightshow with the fuses being hit, the scene makes perfect use of Dont Stop Me Now to the point where we dont want it to stop at all!

#26: ShoutAnimal House (1978)

The original National Lampoon movie is a classic for many reasons, not the least of which it features a scene that has become inseparable from the Isley Brothers song, Shout. Performed by Lloyd G. Williams and lip-synched/acted out by the fictional Otis Day and the Knights, this rendition gets all of Delta houses party singing, shouting, and turtling along with it. The call-and-response nature of the tune practically begs you to get involved and throw your hands up any time it plays, but well always associate it with a bunch of drunk college students in togas.

#25: Stayin AliveSaturday Night Fever (1977)

The opening scene to this 70s disco-drenched dance movie is iconic and was made so by this song by the Bee Gees. Stayin Alive plays as John Travoltas Tony Manero struts his way through the streets of Brooklyn. Sure, the song was written for the movie. But the Bee Gees went on to great success with the disco number and even had their own music video for it. And yet, its this intro and Maneros effortless charisma that have helped Stayin Alive stay alive in our minds for over half a century.

#24: LaylaGoodfellas (1990)

Given that its an epic, 7-minute song by Eric Clapton, Layla has a lot of moods throughout. However, its final portion features a wistful piano that you might associate with a going-away party or graduation. Honestly, Martin Scorseses mob movie Goodfellas surprisingly manages to maintain that impression. Except, in this case, the song plays over a montage of the discovery of gangsters who have been whacked. And while protagonist Henry Hill may not be among the dead, Layla helps make it clear that the partys over now. But whatll never be over is our association of the song with dead wiseguys in meat trucks.

#23: The Sound of SilenceThe Graduate (1967)

Hello darkness, my old friend While the song and especially its opening lyrics have since become associated with various memes, it remains inextricably tied to this regret-filled ending. Benjamin interrupts his ex-girlfriend Elaines wedding, leading them both to escape her wedding and joyfully board a departing bus. But after a few moments, it hits them - now what? The Sound of Silence indeedUsing a pre-existing popular song in a film wasnt common at the time, but The Graduate proved a trendsetter for movies going forward, and helped make us remember this melancholy conclusion whenever we hear the Simon & Garfunkel tune.

#22: Stuck in the Middle with YouReservoir Dogs (1992)

Director Quentin Tarantinos jukebox soundtracks are a well-known part of his style, and it all started with his first theatrical film. There are plenty of scenes to choose from, but thanks to the sadistic Mr. Blonde, we can no longer think of Stealers Wheels Stuck in the Middle with You without thinking of a cop getting tortured and getting his ear cut off. Mr. Blondes theatrical singing along with the tune, before engaging in the most savage barbarity is just the kind of thing that epitomizes Tarantinos oeuvre and has this scene stuck in our heads right along with this song.

#21: Twist and ShoutFerris Buellers Day Off (1986)

This song has been covered many many times, perhaps most famously by the Beatles. And while the Fab Four may have produced the version performed here, its Ferris Bueller lip-synching the words. His energetic performance and charisma are so infectious, it gets the entire parade, the crowd, and bystanders singing along and performing dances - both impromptu and clearly choreographed. The unadulterated joy throughout the scene has become entangled completely with Twist and Shout to the point where practically everyone will think of BuellerBuellerwhenever they need to shake it on out.

#20: A Thousand Miles

White Chicks (2004)

Lets admit it: most of us immediately think of Terry Crews the moment we hear the opening notes of this song. Two decades since the films release, Crews has become synonymous with Vanessa Carltons breakout hit. While Carlton originated the song, Crews brought it to life. His characters overenthusiastic reaction, the way he plays out each lyric, and the overall absurdity of it all make for a truly unforgettable moment. Sure, our first response would be similar to how Marlon Wayans reacts in this scene. But Crews energy and wholesome charm quickly add an endearing quality to his performance. Today, the songs legacy stretches far beyond the film, with Crews dropping multiple other renditions over the years.

#19: Shake a Tail Feather

The Blues Brothers (1980)

Originally recorded in 1963 by The Five Du-Tones group, this foot-stomping banger of a song is generally linked with Ray Charles. In his cover for this cult classic film, the singer plays a music store owner with the power to get anyone grooving. Its irresistible beat compels everyone around to start dancing like their lives depend on it. And its not just the characters onscreen with Charles in full flow, we cant help but hip to the jive ourselves. The scene inspires us to leave all care behind and submit to the vibe, tying into the overall theme of The Blues Brothers.

#18: Eye of the Tiger

Rocky III (1982)

Wanna feel like a winner? One listen to this timeless masterpiece will do the trick. Eye of the Tiger doesnt just pump you up it inspires you to reach for your dreams, no matter how wild they may be. The Rocky franchise excels at soundtracks evoking the central theme of each installment, and this one definitely doesnt miss. Fittingly, we get a montage of Rocky making it big while Clubber Lang moves up the ranks to challenge him. The parallels between the characters and how they apply to real life amplify the songs powerful message. Each build-up to the chorus convinces us that, just like Rocky, we can punch our tickets to the top.

#17: Mr. Blue Sky

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

If youre in the mood for some classic yet underrated songs, the Guardians series has you covered. Each film opens with a track that sets the mood, and Mr. Blue Sky does the honors for the second entry. On the face of it, battling a violent space monster doesnt exactly sound like the setup for a good time. But with soft, upbeat tunes from the Electric Light Orchestra keeping us company, we can see why Baby Groots having so much fun. He might be a tiny baby alien, but Groot shows us how to dance all our troubles away. The song matches the teams knack for landing themselves into trouble, while capturing their ability to find a way out every time.

#16: Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)

Beetlejuice (1988)

Ever find yourself cutting loose to a song that just gets you? Something sort of like that happens in Beetlejuice. Hoping to scare off the houses new residents, ghostly duo Adam and Barbara take them for a wacky musical ride. Before anyone knows it, theyre compelled to sway along to wherever Harry Belafontes vocals take them. Though as bizarre as intended, its vibe provides a sense of peace we cant shake off. It also helps that everyone seems to be having the time of their life. Thanks to the casts eccentric choreography, fans now associate the song with the wonderfully weird world of Beetlejuice.

#15: Old Time Rock & Roll

Risky Business (1983)

Tom Cruises death-defying stunts have cemented him as an action icon. But for many fans, hell always be the boy singing and dancing his heart out to Bob Segers ode to rock 'n' roll. Cruise had previously appeared in a few notable roles, but Risky Business catapulted him into the big leagues. And if theres any scene immortalized from the movie, it has to be this one. For many teenagers, getting the house to themselves is like a wonderful dream come true. Here, Cruises character portrays that sense of freedom, embodying an infectiously relatable, youthful energy. Thanks to the actors iconic moves, the song has come to symbolize the carefree spirit that reminds us to live in the moment.

#14: All Star

Shrek (2001)

You couldnt ask for a better song to launch the Shrek franchise. The intro encapsulates everything that makes Shrek, well, Shrek. This ogre is as unapologetically himself as the track that accompanies the scene. Smash Mouths chart-topping hit blends mischief with a whole lot of fun, setting viewers up for the series brand of humor. Because of its meme-able quality, All Star has remained alive and kicking decades later. But the song owes much of its popularity to Shrek himself, as the protagonists antics bring out the songs oomph factor. His unfiltered charm and rebellious spirit springboarded the song into its own corner in pop culture history.

#13: (I've Had) The Time of My Life

Dirty Dancing (1987)

[Nobody puts baby in the corner] Patrick Swayzes classic quote leads into an equally unforgettable performance. While the song is about young love blossoming, it was Swayze and Jennifer Grey who inspired an entire generation to follow their hearts. The films climactic scene hits all the right notes, with the protagonists baring their love for the world to see. The marriage between music and dance strikes an emotional chord and that sentiment persists to this day. By the time the curtain falls on their triumphant performance, the actors had permanently etched their names in film history.

#12: Oh, Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman (1990)

Not going with this song wouldve been a big mistake, big, huge especially since it inspired the films title. Fast-forward a few decades, though, and the first person you think of with the song is Julia Roberts. Set against the backdrop of her characters makeover, Vivian overcomes her fears and embraces the finer life that Beverly Hills offers. Its optimistic, celebratory vibe mirrors Vivians character arc, putting her on the path to reinventing herself. The songs old-time charm exudes a sense of class that our heroine demonstrates, turning heads along the way. While all that glitz and glamor plays its part, its her newfound self-confidence that truly makes this woman pretty inside and out.

#11: Johnny B. Goode

Back to the Future (1985)

How do you make an old song feel new? You hop back 30 years on a time-traveling DeLorean, thats how. With the central conflict resolved, Marty finally gets to play the type of music hes passionate about. Of course, he gets a bit too enthusiastic about it, as his rendition of Chuck Berrys Johnny B. Goode goes off the rails. Berrys original was already a classic by the time of Back to the Futures release. But its inclusion in the film cemented its legacy for future generations. Martys unrestrained, electrifying performance perfectly sums up the songs thematic qualities. And if it ever gets too much for you, just remember: your kids are definitely going to love it.

#10: You Never Can Tell

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Few directors use music in their films to such iconic success as does Quentin Tarantino. His music selection is as varied as it is perfect for each scene. Its because of Mr. Tarantino, that whenever Chuck Berrys You Never Can Tell starts to play, our body automatically starts to do the twist (followed by some pretty impressive hand swipes in front of our eyes moves as well). Not only did Pulp Fiction rejuvenate John Travoltas career, it also gave audiences a chance to see him dancing again. And that dance and that song are now forever linked.

#9: Try a Little Tenderness

Pretty in Pink (1986)

Without doubt the greatest performance of Otis Reddings Try a Little Tenderness is by Andrew Strong and the rest of the band in the 1991 film The Commitments. However, as amazing as it was, our forever connection to this song had already been imprinted in our movie minds 5 years earlier with the release of the film Pretty in Pink. And while Jon Cryer - unlike The Commitments band - doesnt actually sing the song, his lip-synch performance around the record store was one for the ages. As if we needed another reason to love Duckie, right?

#8: Wise Up

Magnolia (1999)

For some people its jarring in musicals when characters randomly break into song. So imagine when it happens in a film that isnt a musical. Well, at least in the case of Paul Thomas Andersons 1999 masterpiece Magnolia, its both jarring and mesmerizing - and completely unforgettable. At first it appears like it might just be one character singing in her apartment. But then, as we cut to another person, and another and another - the reality of the situation dissipates and the cinematic artistry grabs hold. Hearing Aimee Manns Wise Up will always bring to mind the images of this grief-filled sing-a-long.

#7: In Your Eyes

Say Anything (1989)

Did you know that the famous boombox scene from Say Anything was originally scored with the song Question Of Life by the brilliant band Fishbone? And while it might be a good song, we agree with Cameron Crowe who, after watching the scene, decided that it just didnt work. Thats when Crowe decided to go with Peter Gabriels In Your Eyes, and the rest is movie music history. As Gabriel himself has even admitted, he and John Cusack are now sort of trapped together in a minuscule moment of contemporary culture.

#6: Unchained Melody

Ghost (1990)

Unchained Melody was originally written for the 1955 prison movie, Unchained. And until 1990, there mightve been movie fans who couldnt separate the song from that film from decades earlier. But in overall pop culture, those Unchained associations went out the window with the release of Ghost - and one now-legendary scene. You know the one. And not only did the film forever cement our associations with this beautiful song - particularly The Righteous Brothers version - it has also forever heightened our appreciation for the romantic power of working with clay. Who knew that pottery could be so darn sexy?

#5: Bohemian Rhapsody

Waynes World (1992)

Why do so many 90s kids know the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody? Why do we always head bang during the guitar solo? Two words Waynes World. And we have Mike Myers to thank for this one. Both the studio and Lorne Michaels were pushing for a Guns N Roses song to be used for the now-iconic head-banging car scene. But Myers wasnt having it. No way. Way! He even threatened to quit the movie if they didnt use Bohemian Rhapsody for the scene. Obviously he got his way and we got one of the greatest moments in comedy movie and music history combined.

#4: Tiny Dancer

Almost Famous (2000)

Elton Johns beautiful song has been a part of the pop music landscape since its release in 1971. However, it was the songs inclusion in the film Almost Famous - almost three decades after its initial release - that has since ingrained it into our cinematic subconscious. And director Cameron Crowe knew he had something from the first take. As he said in an interview: It was one of those situations where you just felt it. Indeed, they could feel it on set and we can feel it each and every time we watch the scene. And since then, every time we hear the song - were back on that bus. To paraphrase Penny Lane, were home.

#3: Where Is My Mind?

Fight Club (1999)

Yes, we know the first two rules, but for this next song we HAVE to talk about Fight Club. Because since 1999 we havent been able to hear Where Is My Mind? by Pixies and not think about, remember, contemplate, talk about Fight Club. Particularly that last scene over which the song plays - as Edward Norton and Helena Bonham Carter stand there holding hands watching the city explode around them. It mightve been a strange time in Nortons character's life - but whenever we hear Where Is My Mind?, we immediately go back to that time in our lives when we watched this movie. And if you havent seen it yet, you will, too.

#2: Can't Take My Eyes off You

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

There are so, so many things we love about rom-coms. But one of the best tropes these films provide is the big apology and/or declaration of love scene. And in 1999s 10 Things I Hate About You - we get one from each of our main characters. From Julia Stiless Katarina "Kat" Stratford, we get the famous poem from which the film gets its name. And from Heath Ledgers Patrick Verona we get his grand rendition of Can't Take My Eyes Off You with the help of the high school marching band. For a generation of teen rom-com lovers, this song will always go hand in hand with Ledger dancing, singing and eventually running from security in the stands.

#1: Don't You (Forget About Me)

The Breakfast Club (1985)

Whether youre a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess or a criminal - if youve seen The Breakfast Club then the Simple Minds song Don't You (Forget About Me) will always be emotionally attached to said film. The song plays and its an almost involuntary action that our right arms make - fist pumping into the air like Judd Nelsons does in the final moments of the movie. This movie and song are so entwined with each other that Pitch Perfect honored the pairing in their climactic musical scene some 27 years later.

Is there a song you always associate with a movie that we forgot to include? We wont stop you now - share your picks in the comments!