Calling all cinephiles and music buffs! Buckle up for a journey through the most memorable movie theme songs of these recent years. These aren’t your average elevator tunes; these are the tracks that hook you from the opening credits, setting the tone for the cinematic adventure ahead.
“Sky Fall” by Adele (Skyfall)
We can’t resist starting with a near-miss. Adele’s powerhouse vocals and the haunting melody in “Sky Fall” perfectly captured the sleek elegance and gritty action of Daniel Craig‘s Bond swansong. It’s a timeless classic that redefined the modern Bond theme.
“Black Panther” by Kendrick Lamar (Black Panther)
This song is a cultural touchstone. Kendrick Lamar curates a sonic Afrofuturistic masterpiece, featuring a star-studded lineup of artists. From the urgent call to action in “King’s Dead” to the soulful
crooning of SZA on “All the Stars,” this soundtrack is an experience in itself, perfectly capturing the film’s themes of Black excellence and cultural pride.
“A Million Dreams” by P!nk (The Greatest Showman)
P!nk belts out a soaring anthem in “A Million Dreams,” embodying the optimistic spirit of The Greatest Showman. It became a global phenomenon, inspiring countless karaoke renditions and gym playlist additions.
This song is a reminder that even the wildest dreams can come true, with a little bit of hustle and a whole lot of sequins.
“Carry On” by Kygo ft. Julia Michaels (Kingsman: The Golden Circle)
Kingsman: The Golden Circle is all about over-the-top action and eccentric characters. Kygo and Julia Michaels’ collaboration delivers on that energy with “Carry On,” a pulsating dance track that’s equal
parts sophisticated and playful. It’s the perfect soundtrack for dodging bullets and sipping champagne in a tailor-made suit.
“Sunflower ” by Post Malone ft Swae lee (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse)
This animated masterpiece deserved an equally innovative theme song. Enter Post Malone’s smooth vocals and a laid-back hip-hop beat in “Into the Spider-Verse.”
The song seamlessly blends the film’s themes of self-discovery and the power of the multiverse, all wrapped in a catchy tune that’ll have you humming long after the credits roll.
“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys and Swae Lee (The Hunger Games: Mockingjay)
This song is a battle cry. Alicia Keys‘ powerful vocals and Swae Lee’s contemporary edge perfectly capture the defiant spirit of Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games finale. It’s a reminder that even the smallest spark can ignite a revolution.
“Rewrite the Stars” by Zac Efron & Zendaya (The Greatest Showman)
From rivals to soulmates, Zendaya and Zac Efron’s chemistry sizzles on screen and in “Rewrite the Stars.” This energetic duet is a pop masterpiece, showcasing their vocal talents and the film’s theme of defying societal expectations.
“Shallow” by Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper (A Star is Born)
This Academy Award-winning song needs no introduction. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s powerhouse vocals in “Shallow” perfectly encapsulate the passionate and ultimately tragic
love story at the heart of A Star is Born. It’s a belter for the ages, guaranteed to leave you reaching for the tissues (and the microphone).
“I See a Red Door and I Want It Painted Black” (Black Adam)
Matt Reeves’ gritty reboot of Black Adam deserved a dark and moody theme song. The use of The Rolling Stones’ iconic “Paint It Black” sets the perfect tone, immersing us in the depths of Gotham’s underbelly and Black Adam’s brooding psyche.
“Colombia, Mi Encanto” by Carlos Vives ft. Sebastian Yatra (Encanto)
“Colombia, Mi Encanto” by Carlos Vives ft. Sebastian Yatra perfectly captures the film’s energy and Colombian heritage. The catchy beat and joyful vocals celebrate family, magic, and the beauty of Colombian culture.
It’s a song that will have you swaying in your seat and booking your next vacation to Colombia.
“No Time to Die” by Billie Eilish (No Time to Die)
The youngest Bond theme song artist ever, Billie Eilish delivers a hauntingly beautiful track for Daniel Craig’s outing as 007. “No Time to Die” is a stark contrast to the bombastic Bond anthems of the past.
It’s a moody and introspective ballad, reflecting on the weight of the Bond legacy and the emotional toll of the spy game.
“Top Gun: Maverick” – Theme Song by Harold Faltermeyer (Top Gun: Maverick)
This isn’t a new song, but the return of Harold Faltermeyer’s iconic “Top Gun” theme in the 2022 sequel is pure nostalgia gold. The familiar synth riff instantly transports you back to the danger zone, perfectly setting the stage for Maverick’s high-octane return.
This list is just a taste of the incredible movie theme songs that have graced our screens in recent years. Each song is a unique piece of the film’s puzzle, setting the tone and leaving a lasting impression. So, fire up your streaming service, pop some popcorn, and crank up the volume.
