9 Songs from the Reservoir Dogs Soundtrack

‘The Reservoir Dogs’ soundtrack, released in 1992, is a seminal work of art that helped to redefine the role of music in film. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, the film tells the story of a group of criminals brought together to pull off a diamond heist. The soundtrack features a diverse mix of songs, ranging from rock and roll classics to lesser-known gems from the 70s and 80s. Each song on the soundtrack is expertly chosen to complement the film’s themes and enhance the emotional impact of each scene.

One of the standout tracks on the soundtrack is “Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus provide a sharp contrast to the violent and disturbing scene that it accompanies in the film, creating a sense of unease and discomfort that lingers long after the scene is over. Another standout track is “Little Green Bag” by the George Baker Selection, which opens the film with a sense of cool swagger and sets the tone for the rest of the movie.

Overall, the Reservoir Dogs soundtrack is a masterclass in the art of music supervision and curation. Each song on the album is a perfect fit for the film, adding depth and richness to the story and characters. The soundtrack remains a beloved classic to this day and stands as a testament to the power of great music to elevate and enhance the film-going experience.

1. Little Green Bag – George Baker Selection

“Little Green Bag” by George Baker Selection is a classic rock song that was released in 1969. The song has a groovy and catchy rhythm that makes it perfect for dancing. It features a combination of brass instruments, guitar, and drums, with the lead singer’s voice being the cherry on top. The song is known for its memorable opening bass line, which has been sampled in several other songs and movies. Overall, “Little Green Bag” is a fun and upbeat song that is sure to get you moving.

2. Hooked on a Feeling – Blue Swede

“Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede is a 1974 pop-rock song that features a unique combination of instruments and vocals. The song begins with a distinctive “ooga-chaka” chant, followed by a catchy melody that features a mix of electric guitar, drums, and synthesizers. The lead singer’s deep and powerful voice adds an emotional dimension to the song, making it a popular classic. “Hooked on a Feeling” has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, solidifying its place as a timeless hit. The song is perfect for singing along and will undoubtedly get stuck in your head.

3. I Gotcha – Joe Tex

“I Gotcha” by Joe Tex is a classic soul and funk song that was released in 1972. The song features a blend of funk rhythms, brass instruments, and Joe Tex’s soulful vocals. The lyrics are filled with playful and suggestive innuendos, making it a popular dance song. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious groove have made it a staple of 70s dance floors. “I Gotcha” is a timeless classic that will undoubtedly get you moving.

4. Magic Carpet Ride – Bedlam

“Magic Carpet Ride” by Bedlam is a rock song that was released in 1970. The song features a heavy and groovy guitar riff that is instantly recognizable. The song’s memorable chorus, powerful drumming, and psychedelic sound effects make it a classic of the rock genre. The lead singer’s raspy voice adds an extra layer of intensity to the song, making it a popular choice for sports arenas and action movies. “Magic Carpet Ride” is a high-energy rock anthem that will get you pumped up and ready for anything.

5. Madonna Speech – Steve Buscemi, Harvey Keitel, Lawrence Tierney, and Eddie Bunker

“Madonna Speech” is a memorable scene from the 1992 movie “Reservoir Dogs” directed by Quentin Tarantino. The scene features Steve Buscemi, Harvey Keitel, Lawrence Tierney, and Eddie Bunker sitting around a table discussing the meaning behind Madonna’s song “Like a Virgin.” The conversation is tense, with each character holding strong opinions and taking jabs at each other. The scene is an excellent example of Tarantino’s signature dialogue style, which is characterized by witty banter and pop culture references.

6. Fool for Love – Sandy Rogers

“Fool for Love” by Sandy Rogers is a country-rock song that was featured in the 1985 movie “Fool for Love,” directed by Robert Altman. The song features Rogers’ soulful voice, accompanied by a combination of acoustic and electric guitars, drums, and harmonica. The song’s lyrics tell a story of heartbreak and longing, making it a popular choice for country music fans.

7. Stuck in the Middle with You – Stealers Wheel

“Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel is a classic rock song from the 1970s that features upbeat acoustic guitar riffs, catchy lyrics, and a memorable chorus. The song has become a cultural icon and has been featured in several films and TV shows, including the Quentin Tarantino movie “Reservoir Dogs.” The song’s whimsical and upbeat tone belies its darker lyrics about being stuck in a difficult situation with no clear way out.

8. Harvest Moon – Bedlam

“Harvest Moon” by Bedlam is a hauntingly beautiful folk song that showcases the raw, emotive vocals of lead singer Anne-Marie Helder. The song’s melancholic melody and introspective lyrics create a haunting and evocative atmosphere that lingers long after the song has ended. The use of acoustic guitar and strings adds to the song’s introspective nature, making it a poignant and reflective ode to love and loss.

9. Coconut – Harry Nilsson

“Coconut” by Harry Nilsson is a fun and upbeat song that is instantly recognizable from its opening chords. The song is built around a catchy, repetitive melody and features a range of unusual instruments, including a marimba and a steel drum, that give the song a distinct tropical vibe. The lyrics are nonsensical and playful, telling the story of a man who is thirsty and goes to a doctor, who tells him to put the lime in the coconut and drink it all up. The song is a great example of Nilsson’s whimsical and irreverent songwriting style and remains a beloved classic to this day.