In other cases, theyre simply goofy and catchy, leaving behind a legacy that supplants their cinematic counterparts.
So here are our top ten most iconic songs written for movies, ranked.
The song boasts a happy-go-lucky beat about overcoming the blues, for happiness will greet you soon enough.
Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, and Lily Tomlin in 9 to 5 (1980) | IMDb
Cryings not for me, sings B.J.
Thomas as he laments about the suns poor performance on the job.
In the film, the song is a much-needed respite from the otherwise tense narrative.
Newman and Redford take refuge in a secluded home and get a moment to ride bicycles.
Its a playful interlude that provides a little carefree escapism from their always-on-the-run outlaw lifestyle.
Its a perfect fit musically matching the scenes energy but lyrically suggesting the characters neverending hurdles.
The song is now a go-to tune for those coping with a little rain on cloud nine.
It lingers just long enough in the pity me space before taking a more uplifting turn.
Ghostbusters | Ghostbusters
Who you gonna call?
TheGhostbustersmovie was even an entire category onJeopardy!…twice!
The song has implanted itself into pop culture, as the little ditty is catchy and ripe for comedy.
Those unfamiliar with the movie are usually familiar with the tune, earning its place on this list.
Though this wasnt quite a fit forRocky,it worked beautifully for the final combat montage inThe Karate Kid.
The intro chords to Eye of the Tiger are immediately recognizable and adrenaline-boosting.
You feel the energy swell in your gut the need to release all that pent-up aggression.
Its intimately associated with theRockyfranchise and has since become a timeless tune about determination in the face of adversity.
About the fighter spirit.
About the struggle, the sacrifice, and the eventual triumph.
The song is emblematic of youthful rebellion and individual expression in the face of social pressures to conform.
Mrs. Robinson | The Graduate
Simon and Garfunkel wrote several songs forThe Graduate,but Mirs.
That drive to succeed.
Because, if you could make it there, you could make it anywhere.
Pour myself a cup of ambition.
No truer words have ever been spoken.
No lyrics have ever better relayed the sentiment of a working-class citizen waking up to return to the grind.
The struggles women endured against a misogynistic and patriarchal system.
The song was, and still is, a rallying cry for justice, equality, and equity.
