Göransson’s Mixtape for 'Turning Red'

The most recent Pixar film Turning Red (2022), has created quite a buzz, receiving mixed reviews and attention. While I would not consider it as a top favorite Pixar film, it was still a great one, with a unique take on music. While most are aware of Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell’s involvement in the film for the boyband 4*Town’s music, the rest of the film was brought to life due to the work of Ludwig Göransson.

Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Ironic “Fortunate Son"

For many of the pieces and songs that we have touched on before, regardless of them being classic or cliché, have either been used heavily in visual media as intended, or not even remotely close. There are various serious songs that now have a new life in comedy, and some bright and happy songs being used ironically in terrible or dark scenes. That is how some film-makers create contrast. However, there are some contrasts musically, that may not be quite are obvious. One example of this, is Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son”.

Bridgerton’s Mixed Use of Classical Music

With a new season coming out very soon, the Emmy-nominated Netflix series Bridgerton (2020) will once again be the talk of the town. Not only for its dramatic portrayals of love and romance in a 18^th century London show, but also for its use of new and old music alike.  

Vangelis’ Dramatic “Chariots of Fire”

When talking about overused music in visual media, we often think of those songs or pieces that we have seen being used several times in films and tv. However, there are songs that are not only used for film and tv, but also for commercials and large promoted events. Some have even become the unofficial theme song of a specific event, just as Vangelis’ “Chariots of Fire” did.

Queen & Bowie’s Impromptu Hit “Under Pressure”

There is a good amount of songs that have a certain genre of film and tv that they are often associated with. Often to the point of the song itself becoming a sort of running gag in the visual media industry. This is also often a case with the comedy genre, with the reuse of songs such as MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This”, which has also become a sort of running gag. Another of these running gag songs, has to be Queen’s “Under Pressure” featuring David Bowie.

Satie’s Minimalist “Gymnopédie No. 1”

People associate music with an ongoing sound. There always has to be something playing in order for it to qualify as music. However, the is a power in silence and resonant tones that can make all the difference in your experience. This minimalistic technique is often viewed as inferior to other music; but has the adaptability and power to evoke certain emotions that may be considered difficult to achieve. This form of ambience music, is unique and memorable, such as Erik Satie’s “Gymnopédie No. 1”.

Kamakawiwo'ole’s Spontaneous Hit “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World”

There are quite a few hit songs that have been wildly used in the visual media industry, that are not originals. Be it a cover, a mix, or a rendition, it may be more widely known or used than it’s original. While this may be impressive on its own, it is all the more impressive if the song was also a spur-of-the-moment one-take. This is exactly what happened with Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World”.