Our September/October 2016 “High Five” Contest Winner Explains His Picks

Updated:

August 2, 2021 9:21 am

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Our September/October contest winner James Becker discusses his winning choices for our last issue’s “High Five” Contest.

Videos by American Songwriter

200 Motels (1971)
Even though Frank Zappa recorded for decades, he managed to cram a lot of his bizarre genius into this early-70’s film. Crank up the soundtrack at your next party and see who gets it and who doesn’t. Then throw out the people who don’t.

The Harder They Come (1972)
This Jamaican crime film made Jimmy Cliff an international reggae star, and with good reason. These songs sound as good today as they did then.

Trainspotting (1996)
Not only is the movie about heroin and crime and aimless Scottish youth, but the soundtrack has Iggy Pop and Lou Reed and Brian Eno. It’s great.

High Fidelity (2000)
A movie about relationships and vinyl and a man’s relationship with his vinyl, and a soundtrack with Aretha Franklin, Elvis Costello, and The Velvet Underground? I’m there.

Nebraska (2013)
A wonderfully crafted film about road trips and family, Mark Orton’s beautiful guitar compositions will haunt you long after you hear them.