Unveiling the Ultimate Soundtracks: 10 Iconic Songs that Dominated the Silver Screen

The appropriate use of music is crucial in movies and television shows in order to fully engage the audience in the story. However, there are certain songs that have been used more frequently than others. Some storytellers create an entire soundtrack that complements the narrative, as seen in films like Baby Driver and Guardians of the Galaxy. Music can also be employed to intensify specific moments, such as the impactful use of Simon & Garfunkel's "The Sound Of Silence" at the end of The Graduate, when the main characters drive away in silence.

One notable example is the scene in Reservoir Dogs, where the character Mr. Blonde exhibits his unpredictability by singing and dancing to Stealers Wheel's "Stuck In The Middle With You" while torturing a cop. It is evident that movies and television shows heavily rely on music to shape the stories they tell. Despite the vast array of music available, there are a select few songs that have been utilized more frequently than others. Using data from what-song, a platform that tracks song usage in television and films, here are ten of the most commonly used songs in movies and TV shows.

10 "Take On Me" By A-ha

9 "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" By Rupert Holmes

: The song "Take On Me" by a-ha, a synth-pop band from Norway, has been featured in various forms of media 29 times. Its prominent appearances have been in comedy TV shows such as Family Guy, The Goldbergs, Superstore, and Mixed-ish. In addition, it also made a significant impact in The Last of Us season 1, episode 7, where it effectively depicted the journey of the character Ellie and the importance of her relationships. The song has further achieved recognition in films like Deadpool 2, A Dog's Purpose, and most recently The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Its inclusion in the latter actually holds a special significance, considering it was the number one music single in the United States at the time of the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System on October 18th, 1985.

The hit song "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" by British-American singer-songwriter Rupert Holmes has made its way into the hearts of audiences through its presence in over 30 films and TV shows. With its catchy, timeless rock sound, this captivating track narrates the tale of a married couple on the lookout for a way to escape their stagnant relationship. Ultimately, they find themselves rekindling their love and giving their marriage a second chance. Notable appearances of this beloved song include movies such as Dinner for Schmucks, Grown-ups, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, and the iconic scene in Guardians of the Galaxy where Star-Lord is soaring through space to reach his spaceship. Additionally, fans have enjoyed its inclusion in popular shows like Better Call Saul, Bloodline, and Training Day.

8 PONY by Ginuwine

"Pony," originally performed by Ginuwine, an American R&B artist, made its debut in 1996. This exceptional track, showcasing distinctive rhythms and percussion styles, managed to top the R&B chart [via ALL MUSIC]. The song "Pony" has also gained widespread popularity by being featured in a remarkable total of 31 films and TV shows, primarily in comedic productions such as Black-ish, Sex Tape, Mid90s, Shotgun Wedding, and Let's Be Cops. Moreover, it holds a special place in all three Magic Mike films, being recognized as Mike's signature song and a vital component of the esteemed Magic Mike franchise.

7 THIS IS HOW WE DO IT by Montell Jordan

The hit hip hop party anthem "This Is How We Do It" was released in 1995 by Montell Jordan, an accomplished American singer, songwriter, and record producer. Since its release, the song has made its way into 31 different shows and films. It has been prominently featured in popular movies such as 8 Mile, American Reunion, This Means War, and Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Fans of the TV show Yellowjackets may also recall the song being played in season 1 as the girls dance to it using a Walkman paired with a metal bucket, reminiscent of their time spent together in the locker room as a team.

6 SEPTEMBER by Earth, Wind, & Fire

5 LET’S GET IT ON by Marvin Gaye

The groovy song "September" by Earth, Wind & Fire, has been utilized in a remarkable 31 instances. It embodies a lighthearted philosophy of living in the moment, epitomizing the joyful perspective cultivated by the band, which embraced Eastern philosophies and frequently incorporated them into their music. This timeless classic from 1978 has been featured in numerous television shows including The Goldbergs, American Dad, The Good Doctor, and Black-ish. Moreover, it graces the soundtrack of the film The Nice Guys, playing during the scene where Healy and March arrive at the party.

"Let's Get It On" by Marvin Gaye has appeared 31 times. Initially, the song was written with the intention of expressing Gaye's desire to move forward after overcoming alcoholism. However, during the process, it underwent a rewriting which introduced lyrics saturated with strong sexual connotations. This popular track has made appearances in various television shows such as The Flash, Limitless, and Ugly Betty. In addition, it has been featured in notable films like Blades of Glory, Something's Gotta Give, and The Change-up. Notably, it was also included in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, showcasing a scene in which Dr. Evil indulges in a portion of Austin's mojo.

4 SPIRIT IN THE SKY by Norman Greenbaum

"Spirit in the Sky" is a song performed by Norman Greenbaum, an American singer-songwriter, and featured in a total of 35 television shows and films. This uplifting song was actually inspired by a gospel performance by Porter Wagoner that Greenbaum witnessed, which centered around Jesus. Notably, "Spirit in the Sky" has been prominently featured in popular TV shows like Supernatural, Sons of Anarchy, and Shameless. Additionally, it has found its way into movies such as Oceans 11, This is the End, Suicide Squad, and Remember the Titans. It is also worth mentioning that, in the film Apollo 13, the astronauts utilized this song as background music during their televised appearances back on Earth.

3 U CAN’T TOUCH THIS by MC Hammer

MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This," inspired by Rick James' "Super Freak," has made its way into the soundtracks of 39 movies and TV shows. Tapping into boundless confidence, this rap anthem stands as one of the defining hits of its era. Notable TV appearances include iZombie, Fuller House, MacGyver, and Lucifer, while its silver screen credits include Tag, White Chicks, and Sandy Wexler. However, it is perhaps most fondly remembered for its scene-stealing moment in The Proposal, where it served as the pulsating soundtrack to Margaret's bachelorette party held at a male strip club.

2 PUSH IT by Salt-N-Pepper

"Push It" by Salt-N-Pepa, a captivating blend of hip-hop and dance, has made its mark in an impressive 43 TV shows and movies. This infectious track has found its way into popular TV series such as Scandal, Derry Girls, and Brooklyn 99, as well as hit movies like What Men Want, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, and The King of Staten Island. The song embodies the spirit of hitting the dance floor with your closest girlfriends, leading to a memorable and lively scene in the film Something Borrowed. Here, Darcy and Rachel synchronize their moves to the pulsating beats of "Push It."

1 EYE OF THE TIGER by Survivor

Survivor's iconic "Eye of the Tiger" has resonated in countless films and TV shows, an anthem that epitomizes the characters' determination to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. With notable appearances in Cobra Kai, Billions, Breaking Bad, Shazam!, Kicking and Screaming, and Night School, it has left an indelible mark. However, its true association lies with the Rocky franchise, particularly during Rocky's fierce battle against Clubber Lang in Rocky III. Interestingly, Sylvester Stallone himself requested Survivor to create this theme song for the film [via Louder].

Sources: My Nintendo News, Louder, ALL MUSIC