The Soundtrack of 1987 – Movie Music of the Year!  

In music history, 1987 stands out not only for its legendary albums but also for its soundtracks that defined an era. As movies grew into cultural events, their soundtracks became vital extensions of storytelling—mixing timeless hits, contemporary tracks, and groundbreaking compositions. From blockbusters to cult classics, 1987 was a year when soundtracks soared, blending music and cinema into unforgettable cultural milestones. 

 

The Phenomenon of Dirty Dancing 

Few soundtracks from 1987 can rival the cultural impact of Dirty Dancing. The movie, a romantic drama set in the summer of 1963, was an unexpected box-office hit. Its soundtrack became a cultural juggernaut, catapulting songs like “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” to iconic status. 

Blending ’60s classics with original tracks, the Dirty Dancing soundtrack was a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience. Songs like “Be My Baby” by The Ronettes and “Love Is Strange” by Mickey & Sylvia transported audiences to the film’s era, while new tracks like Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes’ Oscar-winning duet brought contemporary flair. The album’s massive commercial success—reaching multi-platinum sales—turned it into a staple of ’80s pop culture. 

Beyond the music, the soundtrack’s success reflected its ability to connect across generations. Parents who remembered the original songs and teens drawn to the new material found common ground. Its legacy endures, inspiring anniversary editions, stage adaptations, and karaoke nights where everyone knows the moves to “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” 

 

Celebrating Rock ‘n’ Roll Roots with La Bamba 

Another standout from 1987 was the soundtrack to La Bamba, a biographical film about Ritchie Valens, one of rock ‘n’ roll’s earliest pioneers. With Los Lobos providing soulful renditions of Valens’ hits, the album bridged generations and genres, introducing Valens’ legacy to a new audience. 

“La Bamba,” a Mexican folk song turned rock anthem, became a chart-topping single, showcasing the enduring power of Valens’ music. Other tracks like “Come On, Let’s Go” and “Donna” captured the vibrancy of the rock ‘n’ roll era while staying relevant in the late ’80s. The La Bamba soundtrack didn’t just celebrate Valens’ life; it honored the roots of rock ‘n’ roll itself, cementing its place as one of the year’s most significant releases. 

 

Blockbuster Soundtracks: The Power of Pop and Rock 

1987 also marked the era of blockbusters leveraging music to enhance their appeal. Take The Lost Boys, a stylish vampire flick that paired its edgy aesthetic with an equally bold soundtrack. Featuring INXS and Jimmy Barnes’ rollicking cover of “Good Times” and Echo & the Bunnymen’s haunting “People Are Strange,” the soundtrack amplified the film’s cool, dark vibe. 

Meanwhile, Beverly Hills Cop II continued the franchise’s tradition of melding action and music. With contributions from Bob Seger (“Shakedown”) and The Jets (“Cross My Broken Heart”), the album was as dynamic as the film’s high-octane car chases. These soundtracks transcended their cinematic origins, becoming standalone hits that extended the films’ lifespans in popular culture. 

 

Soundtracks as Cultural Time Capsules 

Soundtracks in 1987 didn’t just accompany movies; they encapsulated the cultural zeitgeist. Films like Some Kind of Wonderful reflected the angst and aspirations of Gen X, with a soundtrack featuring bands like The Jesus and Mary Chain and Flesh for Lulu. The music resonated deeply with young audiences navigating the complexities of adolescence, love, and identity. 

These soundtracks also served as gateways to discovering new music. In the pre-streaming era, a movie’s soundtrack often introduced audiences to artists they might not have encountered otherwise. This symbiotic relationship between music and cinema ensured that both mediums thrived, feeding off each other’s creative energy. 

 

The Hidden Gems of 1987 Soundtracks 

While blockbusters dominated the charts, 1987 also delivered lesser-known soundtracks that left a lasting impact. Withnail & I, a cult British film, featured a haunting rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “All Along the Watchtower,” blending perfectly with the film’s melancholic tone. Similarly, Adventures in Babysitting brought an eclectic mix of rock and blues to a family-friendly comedy, including tracks like “Then He Kissed Me” by The Crystals. 

These hidden gems showcased the versatility of soundtracks in the ‘80s, where even niche films could create a powerful musical experience. They also demonstrated the foresight of music supervisors, who curated albums that elevated their films and stood the test of time. 

 

The Legacy of 1987 Soundtracks 

The soundtracks of 1987 have left an indelible mark on both the music and film industries. Albums like Dirty Dancing and La Bamba proved that soundtracks could drive a movie’s success and vice versa. Their impact is still felt today in how modern filmmakers approach music in their projects. 

For instance, Dirty Dancing’s enduring popularity has spawned tribute albums, anniversary editions, and even live performances. Meanwhile, the influence of rock-heavy soundtracks like The Lost Boys is evident in contemporary films that use music as a character in the story, such as Guardians of the Galaxy or Baby Driver. 

In 1987, music and movies collided in a way that elevated both art forms. Soundtracks like Dirty Dancing and La Bamba transcended their films, becoming cultural phenomena that defined an era. Others, like The Lost Boys and Beverly Hills Cop II, amplified the cinematic experience with bold, unforgettable tracks.  These albums didn’t just accompany films; they shaped how audiences experienced them, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire today’s creators.