Ever find yourself humming a tune, completely unaware of its cinematic roots? Music has a funny way of embedding itself into our lives, often detaching from where it all began. Many chart-topping hits we adore were actually born from the silver screen, crafted specifically for a movie moment.
It’s fascinating how some of these songs not only capture the essence of a film but go on to achieve a level of fame that far surpasses the movie itself. Get ready to be surprised as we explore 10 huge songs that you might not have known were originally written for movies. Their stories are as captivating as their melodies!
10. “Fight the Power” — Do the Right Thing (1989)
Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” became an instant anthem, echoing the rising racial tensions in urban America. This powerful track, filled with hip-hop beats, clever samples, and even a saxophone, wasn’t just featured in Spike Lee’s film, Do the Right Thing; it was born from it. Lee specifically asked Public Enemy to create a song that would define his movie and capture the era’s restless spirit.
Frontman Chuck D took inspiration from an Isley Brothers’ song with the same title, transforming it into a musical call to action. The song resonated so deeply that it’s still a radio staple and was even ranked second in Rolling Stone’s 500 Best Songs of All Time in 2021. It’s a perfect example of a movie commission turned cultural touchstone.
9. “Independent Women Part I” — Charlie’s Angels (2000)
Destiny’s Child delivered a massive R&B hit with “Independent Women Part I,” a song that became synonymous with female empowerment and financial independence. It was a pivotal track that helped launch Beyoncé Knowles into global superstardom. But did you know this mega-hit was written specifically for the 2000 movie Charlie’s Angels?
The song even gives a shout-out to the film’s stars: Drew Barrymore, Lucy Liu, and Cameron Diaz. Barrymore, who also produced the film, collaborated with Destiny’s Child during the song’s production and its iconic music video. While a “Part II” followed on their album Survivor, it’s “Part I” from the movie that everyone remembers and loves.
8. “This Woman’s Work” — She’s Having a Baby (1988)
Kate Bush’s hauntingly beautiful track, “This Woman’s Work,” is often listed among her greatest songs. What many don’t realize is that we have ’80s teen movie maestro John Hughes to thank for its existence. Hughes, known for his powerful influence in film, often enlisted top musical talents for his movie soundtracks.
For his film She’s Having a Baby, Hughes approached Bush. She was shown a specific segment of the movie and composed the song incredibly quickly, writing at her piano while watching the footage. This resulted in a uniquely pared-down track, featuring mainly piano and vocals, which allows its poignant message to shine. The song’s emotional depth arguably transcended the film itself, becoming a timeless piece that continues to touch listeners.
7. “Moon River” — Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
The film Breakfast at Tiffany’s is as iconic as its signature song, “Moon River.” Originally performed by the movie’s star, Audrey Hepburn, this timeless melody has become so widely beloved and covered by countless artists that its movie origins can sometimes be overlooked by newer generations.
Crafted by the legendary duo Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer, the song was specifically designed to suit Hepburn’s delicate vocal abilities, as she wasn’t a trained singer. Interestingly, studio executives at Paramount almost removed “Moon River” from the final cut. It was Hepburn’s strong insistence that saved the song, allowing it to become one of the most cherished movie themes ever.
6. “9 to 5” — 9 to 5 (1980)
Alongside “Jolene,” Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” is arguably one of her most recognized and beloved songs. This upbeat country-pop anthem, famous for its catchy typewriter rhythm created by Parton’s acrylic nails, perfectly captured the frustrations and aspirations of working women. Parton didn’t just sing this hit; she wrote it specifically for the 1980 comedy film 9 to 5, in which she also made her acting debut.
While the film was a success, Parton’s song took on a life of its own, becoming an enduring symbol of workplace struggles and female empowerment. The movie, though a fun reflection of its time, has somewhat faded into 80s nostalgia, but “9 to 5” continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
5. “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” — Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid (1969)
Everyone knows “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” the cheerful tune performed by B.J. Thomas and written by Hal David and Burt Bacharach. Its ubiquity in commercials and countless covers has made it a song everyone recognizes, even if they can’t quite place where they first heard it. That place was the classic Western, Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid.
The song was famously offered to Bob Dylan, who passed on it. Its lighthearted, optimistic vibe was a stark contrast to the traditional Western genre and the film’s ultimately tragic story. Even star Robert Redford reportedly wasn’t keen on it initially. However, its use during the iconic bicycle scene with Paul Newman cemented its place in cinematic history and contributed to one of the movie’s most memorable moments.
4. “Exit Music (For A Film)” — Romeo + Juliet (1996)
Radiohead’s hauntingly beautiful “Exit Music (For A Film)” is a powerful piece of music that perfectly captures a sense of melancholy and impending doom. As the title suggests, this song was indeed written for a film: Baz Luhrmann’s vibrant 1996 adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet.
The band composed the track envisioning it for the film’s dramatic final scenes, particularly focusing on Juliet’s tragic moment. Thom Yorke’s distinctive vocals over a sparse acoustic guitar build to a powerful crescendo. Interestingly, Luhrmann chose to use the song over the end credits. Perhaps more surprisingly to some, Radiohead requested it not be included on the official soundtrack album, which might be why its direct connection to the film isn’t always immediately recognized.
3. “The Windmills of Your Mind” — The Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
Whether you remember Thomas Crown as the suave Steve McQueen or the charming Pierce Brosnan, or perhaps not at all, the evocative song “The Windmills of Your Mind” has likely crossed your path. This swirling, melancholic tune perfectly captures a sense of sophisticated ennui and has resonated across generations.
Composed by Michel Legrand with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, and performed by Noel Harrison, the song was created for the 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair. It was a huge success, fitting the film’s mood perfectly and making Harrison a star. It even won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Sadly, Harrison couldn’t perform it at the Oscars due to filming commitments elsewhere, but the song’s legacy was firmly cemented.
2. “Call Me” — American Gigolo (1980)
Blondie, the iconic new wave band, has a string of massive hits. While their music has appeared in numerous films and ads, it might surprise you to learn that one of their biggest chart-toppers, “Call Me,” was custom-made for a movie. This electrifying dance-rock anthem was crafted for Paul Schrader’s neo-noir film, American Gigolo, starring Richard Gere.
The track was actually a collaboration. Famed disco producer Giorgio Moroder, who composed the film’s score, wrote the music, while Blondie’s lead singer, Debbie Harry, penned the lyrics and provided her unmistakable vocals. Though released under the Blondie name and a staple of their live shows, its genesis lies firmly in the world of cinema.
1. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” — Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973)
Bob Dylan is a musical legend, and his folk-rock classic “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is one of his most enduring and widely covered songs. Its simple yet profound lyrics have touched millions. Many might not realize that this iconic song was written for Sam Peckinpah’s 1973 Western, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, in which Dylan also had an acting role and composed the score.
The song, with its straightforward four-chord progression, plays during a poignant scene depicting the death of a frontier sheriff. Despite its specific context within the film, the lyrics are universal enough to resonate with any theme of ending or loss. Interestingly, director Peckinpah reportedly didn’t include the song in his initial cut, feeling Dylan was pushed on him by the studio. Nevertheless, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” transcended the film to become a global anthem.
These songs prove that great music can come from anywhere, even the cutting room floor of a movie studio. Their ability to stand alone, often overshadowing the films they were made for, is a testament to their power and artistry.
Which other famous songs do you know were written for movies? Share your favorites and any surprises from this list in the comments below!
