Top 10 Best Uses of a Song in a Movie

Refers to the use of an existing song as a plot device. This means that the characters in the movie interact with the song in some way, such as listening to it or singing it. Songs that are merely in the soundtrack are not suited for this list, but they can be added to the Best Use of a Song in a Movie Soundtrack. Top ten list.

Also, songs in musicals or other songs written specifically for the movie are not included.

The Top Ten

Bohemian Rhapsody - Wayne's World

The movie scene that introduced Bohemian Rhapsody to a whole new generation of listeners. Everyone's parents seemed a little bit cooler after we found out they already had this song on vinyl.

Introduced me to Bohemian Rhapsody and, more importantly, Queen.

Every time this song comes on the radio when I'm in the car.
Johnny B. Goode - Back to the Future

Chuck. Chuck. It's Marvin, your cousin Marvin Berry. You know that new sound you're looking for? Well, listen to this.

This is a great song used to perfection in the film, and Michael J. Fox absolutely nailed it. It's high up on my top 10 list of actors who performed in a movie with Buddy Holly, Ray Charles, and the Blues Brothers.

Note for note, Fox synced that guitar solo like he made the song himself.
In Your Eyes - Say Anything

Think of the song and a boombox.
Tiny Dancer - Almost Famous

I'm not voting for Queen - sue me. I've been on a bus full of people all singing Tiny Dancer, and it's one of the best experiences I've ever had.

Who didn't want to be on that bus singing that song with Stillwater?! I know I did!
Twist and Shout - Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Old Time Rock and Roll - Risky Business

I mean, how many other movies and TV shows have copied or parodied this classic scene?
I Put a Spell on You - Hocus Pocus

This was perfect. The witches were very commanding, and they caught my attention right away. It didn't feel like one of those goofy scenes where the characters sing just to sing. There was purpose in it.
Also, I love the part with the spell. It's so enchanting.

She had your attention when she was singing that song in the movie.
Layla - Goodfellas
Leavin' on a Jet Plane

You cannot beat this film. With "Leaving on a Jet Plane" and "Miss You" by Aerosmith, it cannot be topped. The second song is not listed, but it should be and would be a close contender.
Don't Stop Me Now - Shaun of the Dead

What? They use one of the best Queen songs in yet another movie? Awesome! See, people are starting to understand!

Shut the Queen off.
No, it sounds perfect with the scene you're in. Hahaha.

The Newcomers

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Bread and Butter - The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars
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Stayin' Alive - A Goofy Movie

The Contenders

Superstar - Tommy Boy
The Banana Boat Song - Beetlejuice

That scene in this film is iconic! During a school football game, my friend and I couldn't think of a good cheer, so we just sang this song, even though we had no idea what the words were! We called it "The Beetlejuice" song. Ha ha!

This was amazing, and I couldn't help but watch and think, "Oh wow. This is funny."

Ridiculously funny, my favorite scene!
When the Sh-- Goes Down - This Is the End
Can't Take My Eyes Off You - 10 Things I Hate About You
(I've Had) The Time of My Life - Dirty Dancing
Time Is on My Side - Fallen

Great use of the song for this movie. It was great. The only movie I saw out of all of these ones listed.
Low Rider - Gone in 60 Seconds

War is a great band. Long-standing sound.
Panama - Superbad
Stayin' Alive - Saturday Night Fever
Low - Tropic Thunder
Purple Rain - Purple Rain

Just watch it. Millions of fans over twenty years are based on this musical movie moment.
You Could Be Mine - Terminator 2
All Star - Shrek
Hooked on a Feeling - Guardians of the Galaxy
I'm Shipping Up to Boston - The Departed