Classic Rock in Movies: 6 Memorable Soundtracks

Soundtracks almost always play a vital role in film, helping to elevate the plot and drive it forward. These track lists are carefully curated by film directors and producers to ensure their story is told as effectively as possible. Many classic rock songs have been used in film after film, but they shine the brightest in movies like these, where they are one of a fantastic collection of classics. Check out these memorable soundtracks that feature classic rock songs.

1. Almost Famous (2000)

The 2000 film Almost Famous tells the story of a young writer for Rolling Stone as he follows a rock and roll band in the early 1970s. So, it is no surprise that the movie is full of classic rock songs. It’s based on the early career of music journalist-turned-movie director Cameron Crowe, who wrote the screenplay and personally selected the music for the soundtrack. Baby boomers will find themselves right at home listening to the soundtrack of their youth, which features Cat Stevens, Rod Stewart, Led Zeppelin, Elton John, and the film’s fictional subjects, Stillwater (sonically comprised of Heart’s Nancy Wilson, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, and Peter Frampton).

2. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Guardians of the Galaxy made an impact when it hit theaters—not just for the exciting story and memorable characters, but also for the soundtrack. It was a fascinating move to include a soundtrack full of songs from the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s; it lent a familiar feeling to the otherwise futuristic setting. Undoubtedly, one of the most memorable parts of the film is the opening scene, in which Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) slaughters alien rodents while lip-synching to Redbone’s “Come and Get Your Love.” And who can forget the ending credits, which feature Baby Groot dancing to “I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5?

[RELATED: The 10 Best Songs from the Marvel Cinematic Universe]

3. Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)

Joe Strummer of the Clash came on board to write the score for the 1997 black comedy Grosse Pointe Blank. The film follows a professional hitman who returns to his hometown for his high school reunion while also on assignment. The soundtrack is heavy on 1980s rock, new wave, and punk music—perfect for the graduating class of 1986. Of course, two Clash songs are included, as well as Queen’s “Under Pressure” and Guns N’ Roses’ version of Wings’ “Live and Let Die.” Other soundtrack highlights include “Blister in the Sun” by Violent Femmes, “Take on Me” by a-ha, and Pete Townshend’s “Let My Love Open the Door.”

4. Dazed & Confused (1993)

Dazed & Confused is a film about graduating high school, so, of course, it’s all about nostalgia. The cult classic takes place in 1976 and is therefore a celebration of ’70s rock and roll throughout. Highlights of the soundtrack include “Cherry Bomb” by the Runaways, “Highway Star” by Deep Purple, and the slightly-on-the-nose “School’s Out” by Alice Cooper. Dazed & Confused is an ode to a particular era and experience—being young at an age when the world was your oyster. This soundtrack carries that message throughout the film to perfection.

5. Easy Rider (1969)

The 1969 movie Easy Rider is an enduring piece of culture about the late Sixties, and especially that decade’s counterculture. Hippies, drugs, and rock and roll play significant roles in the plot, which follows two drug smugglers as they road-trip across the United States. The film soundtrack featured some of the major rock artists of the time, including Steppenwolf, the Byrds, and the Jimi Hendrix Experience. It’s impossible to forget the movie that first blasted “Born to Be Wild” complete with motorcycles roaring down the freeway.

6. High Fidelity (2000)

John Cusack starred in the 2000 film High Fidelity, but he also had a role in choosing songs for the soundtrack. The film follows Cusack’s character, Rob, a record store owner who uses music to understand and organize the world around him. Such a story requires a top-tier soundtrack, and High Fidelity truly delivers. Choosing the songs that would appear was an exhaustive process, with Cusack and his associates combing through at least 2,000 tracks to select the ones perfect to determine Rob’s complicated perspective on life. Standouts include the Velvet Underground’s “Oh! Sweet Nuthin’” and Bob Dylan’s “Most of the Time.” But Bruce Springsteen shines brightest—he provides three tracks and makes a cameo in the film.

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