The Ultimate Winning Time Season 2 Soundtrack Guide: Unveiling Every Song & Perfect Timings!
Winning Time Season 2 takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through the rise of the Lakers Dynasty Packed with iconic pop hits, this season's soundtrack adds an extra layer of excitement to the compelling storyline
WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Winning Time Season 2.
Summary
Winning Time Season 2 showcases a dynamic soundtrack filled with beloved songs from the early 1980s and beyond, enhancing the show's quintessential Los Angeles atmosphere. The carefully selected music in Winning Time Season 2 enhances the show's timeless charm and captivating allure, infusing it with a genuine sense of enjoyment and vibrant energy.
The songs featured in Season 2 of Winning Time are strategically used to enhance the storytelling and character development of Magic Johnson and the Lakers. The popular music from the early 1980s, combined with a diverse range of genres and decades, creates a vibrant soundtrack that adds to the energetic and quintessentially LA themes of the HBO series. While the show is based on real sports history, the lively and catchy song choices bring an authentic and timeless charm to Winning Time.
Winning Time: The Rise Of The Lakers Dynasty Season 2, Episode 1, "One Ring Don't Make A Dynasty"
"My Favorite Mutiny" by The Coup, the season 1 theme song of Winning Time, returns to kick off season 2 in a familiar manner. In a manner similar to the first season, season 2 of Winning Time combines a sensational soundtrack with an outstanding instrumental score that intensifies the more dramatic moments of the series. Provided here is a comprehensive list of every song featured in Winning Time: The Rise of The Lakers Dynasty season 2, along with the specific moments they are played.
In the opening scene of season 2, moments after the Lakers' victory over the Boston Celtics in the first game of the 1984 NBA Finals on the Celtics' home turf, Prince & The Revolution's hit song "Let's Go Crazy" sets the energetic tone. Magic Johnson and his teammates, without skipping a beat, rush straight from the court to their bus, accompanied by the upbeat classic by Prince, as seen in the teaser clip.
The hit pop song "Magic" by Olivia Newton-John from 1980 originally featured in the film Xanadu, serves as a fitting introduction to season 2 of protagonist Magic Johnson. Fresh off his NBA Championship and MVP Award, the song showcases Magic Johnson's rapid rise to fame, with his face appearing on numerous commercials and billboards across Los Angeles. It provides a glimpse into the indulgent rewards of his success.
During a conversation between Jerry Buss and Red Auerbach in New York after the 1980 NBA draft, the song "Volare" by 1960s teen idol Bobby Rydell serves as a backdrop. Auerbach shares the news of his impressive trade to acquire both Parish and McHale, solidifying the Celtics as strong contenders for the NBA title in 1981. The Italian meaning of "Volare," which is 'to fly,' could be seen as a subtle reference to Larry Bird in Winning Time season 2.
"Girls On Film" by Duran Duran sets the scene at the Ocotillo Lounge in sunny Palm Springs, California, where Coach Paul Westhead and his assistant Pat Riley meet to discuss their strategies for the upcoming NBA season. This popular 1981 hit provides the soundtrack as the two coaches sit poolside at the stylish club, which was formerly owned by Jerry Buss. Meanwhile, the Lakers players and coaching staff find their training site at the College of The Desert, while staying at the Ocotillo Lounge.
In Lansing, Michigan, Cookie engages in an imaginary conversation with Magic in her bedroom, with "Keeper of the Castle" by Four Tops serving as the backdrop. This classic 1972 funk rock song acts as a metaphorical voice for Magic, as he appears in Cookie's head, warning her that her current simple boyfriend will not satisfy her in the long run. With cautionary lyrics like "Be a good man to your lady," the romantic song highlights Magic's disloyalty towards Cookie, showcasing his failure to meet her needs.
The 1967 classic rock song "Dear Mr. Fantasy" by Traffic is featured in Winning Time season 2, when Jerry Buss explains to Jerry West why he is prepared to spend an unprecedented amount of money to acquire new talent for the Lakers. West is perplexed by Buss' confidence and willingness to spend large sums, hinting at Buss' unrealistic and fantastical ideas that pragmatists find hard to comprehend.
During a highlight reel of the 'Showtime' Lakers' impressive start to the 1981 season following their 1980 NBA title, the iconic track "Best of My Love" by The Emotions plays. This serves as an early indication that the Lakers are well-positioned to have another outstanding season, potentially resulting in back-to-back NBA championships. Their fast-paced and flashy style of basketball signifies their readiness to continue their success.
In Winning Time season 2, episode 1, a well-known and iconic dance hit from 1976 called "I Feel Love" by Donna Summer is played. This song is featured in an extended montage that showcases the cultural fascination with Magic Johnson. However, the montage takes a sudden and tragic turn when Magic injures his knee during a regular season game in November 1980, causing a drastic change in both his life and the Lakers' momentum.
Another song featured in the same episode is "Feel Good" by Fancy, which has a nostalgic rock sound. Surprisingly, this song was actually released in 2001. It is played during a scene where Magic is having a sexual encounter while the Lakers are being heavily defeated on television. Through this experience, Magic begins to realize the differential treatment he receives when he is unable to perform on the basketball court.
"The Cymbals' track "Wobble on Back" sets the backdrop for a fun-filled Buss family game night, where Jeanie, Johnny, and Jimmy enjoy playing Monopoly. The lively tune creates the illusion of a delightful time for the Buss family, only to be interrupted by Jerry's intoxicated intervention, as he lectures his sons about life and business, ultimately spoiling their relaxed evening."
"Sly & The Family Stone's timeless soul track "Time For Livin'" resonates deeply in Winning Time season 2, episode 1, as Magic experiences a profound moment meeting his first son Andre. Surrounded by loved ones and his child's mother, Michelle Mitchell, at a Michigan hospital, the song serves as a poignant reminder to Magic of his ongoing fatherly duties, despite his overwhelming success as the Lakers' superstar."
D Train's "You're the One for Me" plays during the climax of Winning Time season 2, episode 1, when Magic finally gets his cast removed. The upbeat and funky pop song perfectly captures the joyful moment as Coach Paul Westhead's new offensive System takes the Lakers to new heights, leading to several significant victories in Magic's absence. The infectious energy of the song adds to the positive atmosphere surrounding the team's success.
The Grooving Company's "She's My Lady (and She's Lovely)" comes into play after the Lakers' unexpected triumph, thanks to Paul Westhead's System. Buss and the team can now relax and breathe a sigh of relief as they go on an impressive winning streak. Although this funk song gives off a vibe reminiscent of the late 70s, it is actually a release from 2019.
