This summer has delivered some unforgettable needle drops in film, from Superman‘s Mighty Crabjoys to the bustling fandoms of KPop Demon Hunters featuring Huntr/x and the Saja Boys. The latter Netflix release has not only captivated audiences but also soared to the top of Billboard music charts, becoming the most streamed animated feature to date.
With that in mind, let’s take a nostalgic look back at our favorite fictional bands and their best songs over the past 30 years. Our list includes a balanced mix of recent hits from popular films and timeless classics that formed the backbone of the genre—think the iconic tunes from A Goofy Movie. Don’t fret if you notice some of your favorites are absent; we focused solely on original songs from non-musical genre movies.
Superman – The Mighty Crabjoys, “The Mighty Crabjoys Theme”
This track is undeniably for the cool kids, just like Superman himself.
Zootopia – Gazelle, “Try Everything”
No matter how hard we tried, “Try Everything” became an earworm that just wouldn’t quit. Voiced by the fabulous Shakira, Gazelle could make a return in Zootopia 2.
Freaky Friday and Freakier Friday – Pink Slip, “Take Me Away”
Pink Slip’s in-universe lead singer, Christina Vidal Mitchell, brings us the full single for Freakier Friday, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion.
Josie and the Pussycats – “Three Small Words”
This underrated classic served as a cultural touchstone for millennials. We chose “Three Small Words,” featuring Kay Hanley as Josie, because it perfectly encapsulates a generation’s vibe.
Sinners – Sammie, “I Lied to You”
Sammie, played by Miles Caton, became a blues legend after his life-changing performance of “I Lied to You.” This moment stands out as one of Ryan Coogler’s best, where the music practically leaps off the screen.
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World – The Clash at Demonhead, “Black Sheep”
This song is an interesting case: while “Black Sheep” is original in the film, it’s actually a cover of a song by Metric from their 2009 album, Fantasies. Metric gave it to Edgar Wright for the film, releasing their own version after the movie hit theaters.
Turning Red – 4*Town, “Nobody Like U”
Produced by Billie Eilish and Finneas, the catchy number “Nobody Like U” from Pixar’s Turning Red is among several standout tracks that really stick in your head.
KPop Demon Hunters – Saja Boys, “Your Idol”
The soundtrack of KPop Demon Hunters is filled with incredible tracks, but “Your Idol” by the Saja Boys deserves special mention for its Billboard success.
KPop Demon Hunters – Huntr/x, “Golden”
In “Golden,” lyricist Ejae pours his heart and soul into this powerful anthem, which is set to rival “Let It Go” in terms of replay value among young fans.
A Goofy Movie – Powerline, “I2I”
Powerline is the foundation of modern fictional pop icons, thanks to A Goofy Movie. Tevin Campbell made a lasting impact, and it’s no wonder fans are still clamoring for a full Powerline album or maybe even a sequel filled with more infectious tunes.
Correction: The information regarding “Black Sheep” has been updated for clarity.
Looking for more exciting news? Explore the latest on Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, along with upcoming developments in the DC Universe and everything about Doctor Who.
What’s a timeless movie with great fictional bands? Films like A Goofy Movie and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World feature memorable soundtracks that have left a lasting impact.
Why do fictional band songs resonate with audiences? Their catchy hooks and relatable themes often reflect personal experiences and emotions, making them unforgettable.
How do fictional bands achieve chart success? Quality songwriting, memorable performances, and strategic placements in popular media contribute significantly to their success.
What makes “I2I” such an iconic song? Its catchy melody and relatable theme of connection resonate with viewers, leaving a lasting impression long after the movie ends.
Could we see more fictional bands in upcoming films? Given the success of recent soundtracks, it’s likely we’ll continue to see creative fictional bands in future movies.
So now that you’ve reminisced about these iconic tracks, why not dive deeper into the world of music in film? For more engaging content, check out Moyens I/O.