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The ‘La La Land’ soundtrack is a masterpiece of modern musical cinema, featuring 12 unforgettable songs that capture the film’s themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams. The film, which stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as two struggling artists in Los Angeles, has become a modern classic for its inventive storytelling, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music.
The soundtrack, composed by Justin Hurwitz with lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, features a mix of classic Hollywood musical styles and modern pop sensibilities, resulting in a truly unique and captivating listening experience.
The soundtrack’s standout tracks include the dreamy and romantic “City of Stars,” which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, as well as the rousing and energetic “Another Day of Sun,” which opens the film with a spectacular dance number set in the middle of a traffic jam. Other highlights include the tender and introspective “Audition (The Fools Who Dream),” the upbeat and optimistic “Someone in the Crowd,” and the charming and whimsical “A Lovely Night.”
The La La Land soundtrack has received critical acclaim and widespread popular success, and has helped to reignite interest in the musical genre for a new generation of audiences. With its unforgettable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and stunning vocal performances, the soundtrack is a testament to the enduring power and magic of the musical form.
1. Another Day of Sun
“Another Day of Sun” is a vibrant and upbeat song from the 2016 musical film “La La Land.” The song opens the movie with a colorful and energetic musical number set in the middle of a traffic jam in Los Angeles. The lyrics speak to the dreams and aspirations of the characters as they navigate their way through the challenges of pursuing their passions in Hollywood. The lively melody and harmonies, accompanied by a brass-heavy orchestra and catchy percussion, make for an unforgettable and toe-tapping tune that sets the tone for the entire film. Overall, “Another Day of Sun” captures the essence of the film’s theme of chasing one’s dreams in the face of adversity.
2. Someone in the Crowd
“Someone in the Crowd” is a song from the same 2016 musical film “La La Land.” The song is a lively and upbeat ensemble number featuring the film’s lead actress, Emma Stone, along with other characters, as they search for excitement and success in Los Angeles. The song’s lyrics encourage taking chances and embracing opportunities, all while having a good time. The melody is infectious, with a jazzy, pop-inspired sound that makes it impossible not to tap your foot along to the beat. The song’s overall message is one of hope and optimism, reminding us that there’s always someone in the crowd who can help us achieve our dreams.
3. A Lovely Night
“A Lovely Night” is a charming and romantic song from “La La Land.” The song features the film’s lead actors, Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, as they dance and sing through a magical evening in Los Angeles. The song’s melody and lyrics convey a sense of joy and whimsy, capturing the excitement and anticipation of a potential new romance. The vocals are soft and playful, with a touch of old Hollywood glamour. The song’s lighthearted lyrics and catchy tune make it an instant classic, with the characters playfully teasing each other as they try to navigate their feelings. Overall, “A Lovely Night” is a delightful and heartwarming song that captures the magic of falling in love.
4. Mia and Sebastian’s Theme
“Mia and Sebastian’s Theme” is a hauntingly beautiful instrumental piece from “La La Land.” The song’s melody is both melancholic and romantic, with a touch of nostalgia that captures the bittersweet nature of the film’s central love story. The piano-led melody is simple yet evocative, conveying the emotions of the characters without the need for words. The song’s use of strings and other orchestral elements adds depth and richness to the arrangement, creating a lush and cinematic sound. “Mia and Sebastian’s Theme” is a powerful piece of music that captures the essence of the film’s central love story, leaving a lasting impression on the listener long after the film has ended.
5. Herman’s Habit
“Herman’s Habit” is a fast-paced and energetic punk rock song by the American band NOFX. The song features aggressive guitar riffs, thundering drums, and politically charged lyrics that criticize corporate greed and the negative impact of capitalism on society. The song’s lyrics also touch on themes of conformity and the dangers of blindly following authority. Despite the serious subject matter, the song’s catchy melody and sing-along chorus make it a crowd favorite at live shows. “Herman’s Habit” is a classic example of NOFX’s signature style of punk rock, and remains a beloved track among fans of the genre.
6. City of Stars
“City of Stars” is a romantic ballad from the hit musical film La La Land. The song is performed by the film’s stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, and features a beautiful piano melody and dreamy orchestral arrangement. The lyrics tell the story of two aspiring artists who fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Hollywood, and the hope and uncertainty that comes with pursuing a creative career. “City of Stars” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2017 and has become a modern classic, loved by audiences all over the world for its nostalgic and romantic appeal.
7. Planetarium
“Planetarium” is a dreamy and ethereal song by the American indie rock band Sufjan Stevens, Bryce Dessner, Nico Muhly, and James McAlister. The song features lush orchestration and otherworldly vocals that create a hypnotic and otherworldly atmosphere. The lyrics evoke a sense of wonder and awe at the vastness of the universe and our place within it, and the song’s gentle melodies and celestial soundscapes transport listeners to a place of introspection and contemplation. “Planetarium” is a standout track from the eponymous album, which explores themes of space, time, and the cosmos, and has received critical acclaim for its ambitious and innovative approach to indie rock.
8. Summer Montage/Madeline
“Summer Montage/Madeline” is a fun and upbeat song from the popular musical comedy-drama TV series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. The song features catchy pop melodies and humorous lyrics that poke fun at the stereotypical summer fling, and follows the show’s protagonist as she embarks on a whirlwind romance with a new love interest. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of the show, and it perfectly captures the light-hearted and quirky spirit of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. “Summer Montage/Madeline” is a prime example of the show’s clever and witty songwriting, which has helped make it one of the most beloved TV musicals of all time.
9. Start a Fire
“Start a Fire” is an anthemic and powerful song by the British singer-songwriter John Legend. The song features a driving beat, soaring vocals, and an uplifting message about the power of love to change the world. The lyrics encourage listeners to be a force for positive change and to use their voice to make a difference in the world, and the song’s rousing chorus is a call to action that inspires and empowers. “Start a Fire” is a standout track from Legend’s album Darkness and Light, and its message of hope and resilience has resonated with audiences around the world.
10. Audition (The Fools Who Dream)
“Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” is a heartfelt and emotional song from the hit musical film La La Land. The song is performed by the film’s star Emma Stone, and features a tender piano melody and raw, vulnerable vocals that perfectly capture the character’s hopes, dreams, and fears. The lyrics reflect on the challenges of pursuing a creative career, and celebrate the bravery and resilience of those who dare to dream despite the odds. “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” has become one of the film’s most beloved songs, and has resonated with audiences around the world for its message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.
11. Epilogue
“Epilogue” is a moving and emotional song from the hit Broadway musical Les Misérables. The song serves as the finale to the show, and features a sweeping orchestral arrangement and powerful vocals that bring the story’s themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption to a poignant and stirring conclusion. The lyrics reflect on the characters’ journeys and the lessons they have learned, and express a sense of hope and renewal for the future. “Epilogue” is a beloved song among fans of musical theater, and has become a classic finale to one of the most iconic shows in the genre’s history.
12. City of Stars (Humming)
“City of Stars (Humming)” is a charming and whimsical reprise of the popular song from the hit musical film La La Land. The song features a simple melody and sparse instrumentation, and showcases the vocal talents of the film’s stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as they hum the tune in unison. The humming version of “City of Stars” serves as a quiet and introspective moment in the film, and conveys a sense of intimacy and connection between the two characters. “City of Stars (Humming)” is a delightful and memorable moment in the film, and has become a fan favorite for its understated beauty and emotional resonance.