The magic of cinema and television often breathes new life into forgotten musical gems, catapulting them back into the cultural consciousness. Sometimes, a well-placed song in a poignant scene or a catchy theme tune can resurrect a tune from obscurity, introducing it to a new generation. This phenomenon highlights the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time when paired with powerful visuals and compelling storytelling. We’re exploring the fascinating world of 7 old songs that became popular after appearing in new movies and TV shows.
1. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” ー Kate Bush
Originally released in 1985, Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” experienced a meteoric resurgence in 2022 thanks to its prominent use in the fourth season of Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” The song, which perfectly encapsulates the emotional turmoil and supernatural themes of the show, became a global hit, topping charts worldwide and introducing Bush’s unique artistry to a new audience. It’s a testament to the song’s timeless quality and the power of strategic music placement in popular media.
2. “Mr. Blue Sky” ౼ Electric Light Orchestra
While not entirely obscure, “Mr. Blue Sky” from Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) gained significant renewed popularity through its frequent appearances in films like “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and commercials. Its upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics make it a perfect soundtrack for scenes of joy and adventure, ensuring its continued relevance in popular culture. The song’s vibrant energy continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
3. “Hallelujah” ー Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” initially released in 1984, wasn’t a massive hit during its initial release. However, numerous covers and its inclusion in films like “Shrek” helped elevate it to iconic status. Its haunting melody and profound lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its place as a timeless classic. The song’s versatility allows it to fit a wide range of emotional contexts.
4. “Mad World” ౼ Tears for Fears (Gary Jules version)
Tears for Fears’ “Mad World” received a somber and haunting makeover by Gary Jules for the soundtrack of the 2001 film “Donnie Darko.” This melancholic rendition perfectly captured the film’s dystopian atmosphere and became a massive hit, overshadowing the original in popularity. Its success demonstrates how a fresh interpretation can breathe new life into a familiar song.
5. “I Will Survive” ー Gloria Gaynor
While already a disco anthem, “I Will Survive” experienced a resurgence in popularity after its memorable performance in the 1994 film “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.” The film’s celebration of self-acceptance and resilience perfectly aligned with the song’s empowering message, solidifying its status as an LGBTQ+ anthem and a timeless classic.
6. “Tiny Dancer” ー Elton John
Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” enjoyed renewed popularity thanks to its iconic scene in the 2000 film “Almost Famous.” The singalong bus scene, featuring the entire cast belting out the song, became a defining moment of the film and introduced “Tiny Dancer” to a new generation of fans. The song’s nostalgic charm and singable chorus made it an instant classic once again.
7. “Don’t Stop Believin'” ౼ Journey
Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” became a cultural phenomenon after its prominent use in the finale of the television series “The Sopranos” in 2007. The song’s ambiguous ending and uplifting message resonated with viewers, leading to a massive surge in popularity and making it a staple at sporting events and karaoke nights. The enduring appeal of this classic rock anthem is undeniable, and the song’s placement in the show solidified its place in pop culture history. It’s fascinating to witness how 7 old songs that became popular after appearing in new movies and TV shows can experience such a dramatic revival.
The Power of Nostalgia and Context
The resurgence of these songs isn’t simply about random selection. It’s a complex interplay of nostalgia, context, and the inherent qualities of the music itself. Many of these tracks possess a timeless quality, their themes of love, loss, resilience, and hope resonating across generations. However, their placement in a specific scene or narrative creates a powerful emotional connection with the audience. The song becomes inextricably linked to the characters, the plot, and the overall message of the film or show, amplifying its impact.
The Role of Music Supervisors
A critical, often unseen, player in this process is the music supervisor. These individuals are responsible for selecting and licensing music for film and television. Their expertise lies in understanding the emotional landscape of a project and choosing songs that will enhance the narrative. A skilled music supervisor can identify overlooked gems that perfectly complement a scene, breathing new life into them and introducing them to a wider audience. Their choices can significantly impact a film’s or show’s success and even shape the careers of the artists involved.
Beyond the Silver Screen: Advertising and Social Media
The influence of film and television isn’t the only factor driving the revival of older songs. Advertising campaigns often leverage the nostalgic power of music to connect with consumers. A familiar tune can evoke positive memories and associations, making a product or brand more appealing. Furthermore, social media platforms like TikTok have become powerful engines for musical rediscovery. A viral dance challenge or meme featuring an older song can quickly propel it back into the mainstream, introducing it to a generation unfamiliar with its original context.
The Enduring Legacy
Ultimately, the resurgence of these songs highlights the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time. A well-crafted song, regardless of its age, can continue to resonate with audiences if it is presented in the right context. Whether it’s through a poignant scene in a film, a catchy advertisement, or a viral social media trend, these songs have found new life and continue to enrich our cultural landscape. The phenomenon underscores the symbiotic relationship between music and visual media, demonstrating how each can amplify the impact of the other, ensuring that great art never truly fades away.
