12 Best Songs from Guardians of the Galaxy (the Movie)

“Guardians of the Galaxy” is a Marvel superhero film that was released in 2014 and quickly became a box office sensation. One of the most notable aspects of the film is its soundtrack, which features a collection of iconic rock and pop songs from the 60s and 70s that perfectly complement the movie’s retro-futuristic aesthetic and irreverent tone.

The songs are handpicked by the character Star-Lord, who is portrayed as a die-hard music fan and carries a cassette player with him at all times. The soundtrack, titled “Awesome Mix Vol. 1,” has since become a cultural phenomenon and a fan favorite, propelling classic songs to newfound popularity and introducing younger generations to the music of the past. Among the standout tracks on the “Awesome Mix Vol. 1” are “Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone, “Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede, and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.

These songs perfectly capture the movie’s blend of humor, action, and heart, and have become synonymous with the film and its beloved characters. Other tracks on the soundtrack, such as “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 and “O-o-h Child” by The Five Stairsteps, have also become fan favorites, showcasing the range and diversity of the film’s musical selections. The success of the soundtrack has since spawned a sequel, “Awesome Mix Vol. 2,” which features even more classic hits and has helped to further cement the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise as a cultural phenomenon.

1.Hooked on a Feeling – Blue Swede

“Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede is a 1974 hit single that gained immense popularity in the 2010s, after being featured in the movie “Guardians of the Galaxy.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and a memorable “ooga-chaka” chant that became an iconic part of pop culture. With its mix of pop, rock, and soul elements, “Hooked on a Feeling” is a feel-good classic that will have you tapping your feet and singing along.

2.Go All the Way – Raspberries

“Go All the Way” by Raspberries is a 1972 power pop anthem that showcases the band’s dynamic vocal harmonies and driving guitar riffs. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy make it a quintessential rock classic that still resonates with fans today. With its unabashed lyrics about pursuing love, “Go All the Way” captures the youthful, exuberant spirit of rock and roll and remains a timeless gem in the genre’s canon.

3.Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum

“Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum is a psychedelic rock hit from 1969 that has become a cultural touchstone. The song’s driving guitar riff and Greenbaum’s soulful vocals create a sense of spiritual transcendence that speaks to listeners across generations. With its uplifting message of hope and redemption, “Spirit in the Sky” has remained a beloved classic that continues to inspire and connect people.

4.Moonage Daydream – David Bowie

“Moonage Daydream” by David Bowie is a glam rock anthem from his iconic 1972 album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.” The song’s bold and experimental sound, with its hypnotic bassline and spacey synths, perfectly captures the album’s otherworldly, gender-bending themes. With its theatrical flair and futuristic aesthetic, “Moonage Daydream” exemplifies Bowie’s genius and artistic vision, cementing his status as one of the most influential and beloved musicians of all time.

5.Fooled Around and Fell in Love – Elvin Bishop

“Fooled Around and Fell in Love” by Elvin Bishop is a 1976 blues rock classic that has remained a beloved hit for decades. The song’s soulful vocals and melodic guitar riffs create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere that perfectly captures the bittersweet feeling of falling in love. With its catchy chorus and smooth, easygoing vibe, “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” is a timeless anthem that has the power to transport listeners to a bygone era of rock and roll romance.

6.I’m Not in Love – 10cc

“I’m Not in Love” by 10cc is a melancholic ballad that explores the complexities of love and relationships. Released in 1975, the song features a hauntingly beautiful melody and ethereal vocals that perfectly capture the sense of longing and heartache that comes with unrequited love. The song’s layered production, including the use of a chorus of voices to create a hauntingly beautiful soundscape, is both innovative and emotionally powerful. With its introspective lyrics and lush soundscapes, “I’m Not in Love” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners to this day.

7.I Want You Back – The Jackson 5

“I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 is a Motown classic from 1969 that helped launch the career of one of the most iconic musical families in history. The song’s catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Michael Jackson’s electrifying vocals create a pop sensation that still holds up to this day. With its irresistible energy and youthful exuberance, “I Want You Back” is a feel-good anthem that will have you singing and dancing along. It remains an essential part of the pop music canon, inspiring new generations of fans and artists alike.

8.Come and Get Your Love – Redbone

“Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone is a 1974 hit that remains a staple of classic rock radio. The song’s upbeat, infectious rhythm and hook-laden chorus create an irresistible pop sensation that will have you dancing along from the first beat. With its blend of rock, funk, and Native American elements, “Come and Get Your Love” is a unique and memorable contribution to the pop music landscape. The song’s positive, feel-good message and catchy guitar riffs have made it a timeless classic that still resonates with audiences today, and its inclusion in the movie “Guardians of the Galaxy” has introduced it to a whole new generation of fans.

9.Cherry Bomb – The Runaways

“Cherry Bomb” by The Runaways is a punk rock anthem that helped to establish the band as trailblazers for women in rock. Released in 1976, the song’s driving guitar riffs and rebellious lyrics captured the spirit of the punk movement and empowered women to claim their place in the male-dominated rock scene. With its raw energy and unapologetic attitude, “Cherry Bomb” remains a defining moment in rock history, inspiring generations of female rockers to follow in The Runaways’ footsteps. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the band’s groundbreaking contributions to the music industry.

10.Escape (The Piña Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes

“Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes is a 1979 pop hit that has remained a classic and a cultural touchstone. The song’s catchy melody and clever lyrics about a man seeking a new love interest through the personals section of a newspaper, only to discover that his current girlfriend had responded to the ad, create a memorable and fun listening experience. With its upbeat rhythm, sing-along chorus, and tropical vibes, “Escape” has become a beloved classic that continues to inspire and connect people across generations.

11.O-o-h Child – Five Stairsteps

“O-o-h Child” by Five Stairsteps is a soulful and uplifting song that has become an anthem of hope and positivity. Originally released in 1970, the song’s optimistic lyrics and catchy melody create a sense of joy and possibility that speaks to listeners of all ages. With its powerful message of encouragement and resilience, “O-o-h Child” has become a beloved classic that continues to inspire and uplift people in times of hardship and adversity. Its inclusion in popular movies and TV shows has also introduced it to new generations of fans, cementing its status as a timeless classic.

12.Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell is a classic Motown hit that remains one of the most iconic duets in music history. Originally released in 1967, the song’s soaring melody and powerful vocals express the unbreakable bond between two people in love. With its optimistic message of perseverance and triumph over adversity, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” has become an anthem of hope and resilience that inspires and uplifts listeners to this day. Its inclusion in popular movies and TV shows has also introduced it to new generations of fans, cementing its status as a timeless classic.