Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 100 Greatest Soundtracks of All Time, representing a varied cross-section of films and musical genres. Click “Next Soundtrack” below to explore each soundtrack in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & soundtrack index here.
Beat Street
Atlantic (1984)
Selected by Andy Healy
Growing up amidst the emergence of hip-hop and breakdancing movies, there were a few that captured the imagination from the overly mainstream Breakin’ to the underground Krush Groove and Wild Style. But for me, the movie and soundtrack that connected most was Beat Street.
Split over two volumes (though it should have been condensed into one), the soundtrack hits when it really embraces the hip-hop energy and sadly fails when it crosses over into pop with unforgettable love themes and by-the-numbers R&B. But the volumes are saved by Grand Master Melle Mel and The Furious Five’s “Beat Street Breakdown,” the production wizardry that is the seminal “Breaker’s Revenge” by Arthur Baker, Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force’s “Frantic Situation” and the high energy “Battle Cry” by Rockers Revenge. As much a study of the birth of hip-hop as a commentary on its broadening cultural appeal, Beat Street still holds some charm.
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