By Chris Kavan - 10/23/10 at 01:30 PM CT
There are some songs that are so ingrained in my memory from movies that anytime I hear that particular tune, I can't help but think of a particular movie. The 80s was a decade that gave us New Wave, Hair Metal and the beginnings of Rap. It also gave us plenty of films to utilize these songs and when music meets a definitive scene, they become one for all time. Here is my list for songs that define movies:
Peter Gabriel - "In Your Eyes" from Say Anything... - Nothing says I love you like holding a stereo over you head under your gal's window. One of those scenes that you can't imagine with any other song.
Simple Minds - "Don't You Forget About Me" from The Breakfast Club - Out of all John Hughes work from the 80s, this is my favorite and this song was an excellent choice to use as the coda. One fist raised in triumph - Simple Minds - it works perfectly together and it an instant classic.
Huey Lewis and the News - "The Power of Love" from Back to the Future - Some might argue "Back in Time" is the better choice, but I'll go with the one that opens the film and sets the scene - plus the Marty's "too darn loud" band auditions with a guitar-heavy version of this song.
Survivor - "Eye of the Tiger" from Rocky III - It's still the go-to song for pumping yourself up, working out or staying tough - and it will always be that way thanks to one Mr. Balboa.
Kenny Loggins 2 for 1 - "Danger Zone" in Top Gun and "I'm Alright" from Caddyshack - While Loggins may not be on the same level as say The Beatles or The Rolling Stones, you have got to admit the 80s wouldn't be the same without his music. Fast jets, dancing gophers and Kenny Loggins - what more do you need?
Peter Cetera - "The Glory of Love" from The Karate Kid, Part II - I dare you to listen to this and not think of Ralph Macchio and his Asian excursion. Just try it... you can't do it!
Extra Bonus Red-Blooded American Horny Teen Male Song
The Cars - "Moving in Stereo" from Fast Times at Ridgemont High - Phoebe Cates, pool, red bathing suit... the most awkward fantasy interruption ever.
There are plenty more 80s hits that go with movies - any favorites I missed? I'll tackle some other decades at a later time.
