THE 50 MOST ESSENTIAL MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS. Today: #40-36. More: tomorrow.

Caffè Lattè presents:

THE MOST ESSENTIAL

MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS

For decades, songs and movies have been matched. The most successful are effective tools, cross-promoting both the music and the film in which they are featured; giving one or both longevity. Here are 50 Motion Picture Soundtrack Albums that evoke memories of the films they appeared in. The criteria was to include only movie soundtracks which consisted largely of new material, rather than a compilation of older songs or remakes.

 

40

PRETTY WOMAN

1990

This is the film that made the planet take notice of Julia Roberts. Its soundtrack included the global hit “It Must Have Been Love”. As well as that Roxette gem, it contained new music from Go West, Robert Palmer, Natalie Cole and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

39

THE ROSE

1979

‘The Rose’ was loosely based on the life of Janis Joplin. Bette Midler delivered an authentic performance in the leading role. Although the title song was a cover, as was her remake of “When A Man Loves A Woman”, the soundtrack deserves to be included as an exception. 

38

CHARIOTS OF FIRE  

1981

This soundtrack introduced the globe to the talent of Greek composer Vangelis. “Titles” (aka “Chariots Of Fire”) reached #1 in America as did the parent album. The instrumental has been used countless times in various contexts, most effectively for sporting events.

37

THE PREACHER’S WIFE

1996

Whitney Houston co-starred with Denzel Washington for this film which had a gospel/ R&B soundtrack. Among its tracks were the singles “Step By Step”, “I Believe In You And Me” and “My Heart Is Calling”. Houston’s gospel tracks are such sonic delights that even those unaccustomed to that genre can explore with relish.

 

36

MIDNIGHT EXPRESS

1978

Giorgio Moroder almost single-handedly invented Euro-Disco and changed dance music forever with Donna Summer classics such as “Love To Love You Baby”, “I Feel Love” and “Hot Stuff”. The legendary producer also scored many films, including ‘American Gigolo’, ‘Metropolis’, ‘The Never Ending Story’ and ‘Foxes’. Moroder collected an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for his score for ‘Midnight Express’. The soundtrack features highlight tracks “Chase” and “Love’s Theme”.