10 Best Rock Songs Written About Movies

Feature Photo: Toho Company Ltd., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

When musicians sit down to write, they often pull inspiration from the same place we all do: the movies. Whether it’s the storylines, characters, or themes, cinema has a way of lighting up the creative process in unexpected ways. This list of the 10 best rock songs about movies stands apart because it’s not about songs written for soundtracks or those featured in films. Instead, it’s all about songs inspired by films—tracks that artists wrote after watching a movie and feeling so moved they had to express it musically. These aren’t songs you heard as the credits rolled or in the background of pivotal scenes. These are tracks where the magic of the silver screen inspired musicians to pick up their instruments and translate that inspiration into sound.

Take Rush’s “Cinderella Man”, for example. The band’s Geddy Lee wrote the song after watching Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, drawn to its message of an honest man navigating the complexities of a big, corrupt city. Then there’s “A Girl Like You” by The Smithereens, which was inspired by the dialogue in Say Anything… but rejected from the film, making it a unique standalone tribute. The heartfelt lyrics and harder rock edge of the song perfectly capture the passion of Cameron Crowe’s film without ever appearing in it.

Blue Öyster Cult’s “Godzilla”, the closing song on the list, channels the sheer power and destruction of the legendary monster. Rather than simply being a soundtrack cut, it’s a clever, tongue-in-cheek rock anthem that has become iconic for fans of both the band and the beast. Similarly, Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” pulls from the timeless imagery of The Wizard of Oz, intertwining the fantasy of Dorothy’s journey with Bernie Taupin’s personal reflections on life and fame.

Even though the genres in this list vary—from the prog rock of Rush to the cinematic balladry of Elton John, to the playful hard rock of Blue Öyster Cult—there’s a common thread running through them all: a deep passion for the art of storytelling. These artists, all huge movie fans in their own right, prove that art inspires art. Whether it’s the haunting dystopia of The Grapes of Wrath in Bruce Springsteen’s “The Ghost of Tom Joad”, or the epic monster battles of Godzilla, these songs remind us how films can ignite the imagination of musicians and lead to new, original creations.

So, while some of these tracks might have eventually made it to a soundtrack in a different version or form, this list is all about those songs that started with a cinematic spark. These songs live outside the movies, reflecting the deep impact film can have on musicians, showing how the arts continually influence one another. Rock music and film, both beloved pillars of culture, come together in this list to remind us of the power of inspiration.

# 10 – Cinderella Man – Rush (Mr. Deed Goes To Town)

Cinderella Man by Rush is a fascinating blend of rock and storytelling, inspired by the 1936 film Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, starring Gary Cooper. The movie’s story about a small-town man who inherits a fortune and then faces the moral complexities of big-city life left a profound impression on bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, who penned the lyrics for this track. This is one of the rare instances where Lee took over lyric-writing duties from drummer Neil Peart, who generally wrote the band’s lyrics after joining in 1974. The song reflects the themes of goodness, morality, and innocence in the face of greed and societal cynicism—much like the character of Mr. Deeds in the film.

Rush recorded Cinderella Man as part of their 1977 album A Farewell to Kings at Rockfield Studios in Wales. The album, produced by Terry Brown, was notable for its ambitious fusion of progressive rock with hard rock elements. The song features all three members of Rush in top form. Geddy Lee’s bass lines and vocal performance convey the emotional intensity of the story, while Alex Lifeson’s guitar work includes some of the band’s most intricate and melodic playing. Meanwhile, Peart’s drumming, especially during the middle instrumental section, adds a rhythmic complexity that is a hallmark of Rush’s progressive sound. The “funky” middle section, as described by Peart, is a surprising twist for the band, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment.

Critically, Cinderella Man stands out for its fusion of lyrical storytelling and musicianship. The song’s narrative of a man struggling to hold onto his dreams and morality in a world that seeks to strip him of both, mirrors the broader themes of human perseverance and integrity that Rush often explored in their music.

Lyrically, the song is poetic and thought-provoking. Lines like “Because he was human, because he had goodness / ‘Cause he was moral they called him insane” reflect the protagonist’s struggle to maintain his integrity. The chorus, “Cinderella man / Hang on to your plans / Try as they might / They cannot steal your dreams,” becomes an anthem of resilience, much like the narrative in the film that inspired it. Musically, the song blends Rush’s signature progressive rock style with touches of funk and folk, adding layers to the emotional weight of the lyrics. Cinderella Man is not just a standout track on A Farewell to Kings, but also a song that exemplifies Rush’s ability to draw from diverse sources of inspiration and create music that resonates deeply with listeners.

# 9 – “A Girl Like You” – The Smithereens (Say Anything…)

“A Girl Like You” by The Smithereens is a notable entry in the band’s discography and a fascinating example of a song inspired by cinema. Written by frontman Pat DiNizio for Cameron Crowe’s iconic film Say Anything…, the track was originally intended to be part of the film’s soundtrack. However, the song ultimately didn’t make it into the movie because producers felt it revealed too much of the plot. Despite its absence from Say Anything…, the song found its home on The Smithereens’ third studio album, 11, released in 1989. The song’s backstory, along with its potent lyrics, make it a compelling piece for any fan of rock songs inspired by film.

The lyrical content of “A Girl Like You” draws directly from the dialogue and themes in Say Anything…, where a young man, played by John Cusack, is willing to do anything for the love of his life. DiNizio crafted the song to reflect this sentiment, using lines like “I’ll say anything you want to hear” and “I’ll do anything I have to do” to mirror the movie’s passionate pursuit of love. Although the song was not used in the film, it resonates with the same heartfelt urgency as the character’s grand romantic gestures, aligning perfectly with Say Anything…‘s themes of first love and heartbreak. Musically, the song’s driving guitars and dynamic production, helmed by Ed Stasium, underscore the emotion behind the lyrics, creating a sound both anthemic and personal.

The song itself became one of the band’s biggest hits, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and No. 3 on the Modern Rock chart. It also broke into the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 38 and staying on the chart for twenty weeks. The track features backing vocals from Maria Vidal, who was brought in after Madonna, who had originally been tapped for the role, failed to show up for the session. “A Girl Like You” maintains a balance between the Smithereens’ signature alternative rock sound and the pop appeal that made it a radio staple in the late ’80s, much like other movie-inspired tracks such as Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Se_eSeEAoX0

# 8 – “Stranger in Town” – Toto (Whistle Down the Wind)

“Stranger in Town” by Toto is an atmospheric and haunting rock track from their 1984 album Isolation. Written by David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, the song was inspired by the 1961 film Whistle Down the Wind, starring Hayley Mills. The film tells the story of an escaped convict mistaken for Jesus Christ by a group of children. The lyrics of “Stranger in Town” reflect the theme of an outsider who becomes entangled in a confusing and dangerous situation, much like the convict in the film. This thematic connection is a strong example of how the cinematic world influences music, even when the song doesn’t appear in the movie itself.

The song’s eerie, suspenseful atmosphere is heightened by Paich’s lead vocals, which echo the mysterious and unsettling presence of the stranger. Musically, “Stranger in Town” fuses Toto’s signature blend of rock and pop with an underlying tension that reflects the story’s darker themes. With its steady groove and sharp synth stabs, the track channels a kind of film noir energy, emphasizing the dangers lurking beneath the surface of ordinary life. The production, helmed by the band and led by Paich and Steve Lukather, is polished and dense, typical of Toto’s sound in the mid-1980s. It balances melodic hooks with a sense of suspense that drives the song forward.

The music video, directed by Steve Barron, brings this cinematic connection to life. Shot in black and white, it features Brad Dourif portraying the convict, tying the song’s narrative to Whistle Down the Wind visually. The band makes only a brief appearance in the video, allowing the storyline to take center stage. The video’s moody, stark imagery helped the song stand out on MTV, and it was even nominated for Best Direction at the 1985 MTV Music Video Awards. Chart-wise, “Stranger in Town” performed well, reaching No. 7 on the Mainstream Rock chart, making it the band’s highest-charting track in that category, and hitting the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Toto’s use of cinematic inspiration in “Stranger in Town” creates a distinctive and engaging piece that resonates with listeners beyond its chart success. While other songs on this list are more directly tied to the films they were inspired by, Toto’s ability to craft a song based on themes and ideas rather than specific plot points allows “Stranger in Town” to stand out as a deeper reflection on the film’s narrative. This blend of narrative depth and Toto’s polished rock sound places it as one of the standout tracks in their catalog and a great entry in the collection of rock songs based on movies.

# 7 – “Key Largo” – Bertie Higgins

“Key Largo” by Bertie Higgins is a nostalgic soft rock ballad that draws inspiration from classic Hollywood romance. Released in September 1981 as his debut single, the song became a significant hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1982. It remained in the top 40 for 17 weeks and earned gold certification from the RIAA, solidifying its place as Higgins’ most well-known track. In addition to its success on the pop charts, “Key Largo” topped the Adult Contemporary chart for two weeks, showcasing its wide appeal.

The song’s lyrics are a direct reference to the 1948 film Key Largo, starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, evoking the classic romance of the golden age of cinema. Higgins cleverly intertwines the imagery of this glamorous couple’s on-screen chemistry with the storyline of a fading romance in the song. Lines like “We had it all, just like Bogie and Bacall” bring a sense of wistful yearning, as the narrator pleads with a lover to reconsider the end of their relationship. The song’s lyrical references to Casablanca with the famous lines “Here’s looking at you, kid” and “Play it again” further emphasize the cinematic feel, blending two iconic films to frame the emotional weight of the song.

Musically, “Key Largo” is characterized by its smooth, easy-listening sound, with gentle instrumentation that complements Higgins’ tender vocal delivery. The soft rock style and laid-back tropical vibes of the song mirror the escapist themes of the lyrics, which paint a picture of sailing away to a far-off paradise, much like the characters in the films that inspired it. Included on Higgins’ album Just Another Day in Paradise, “Key Largo” has become a soft rock classic, remembered for its nostalgic charm and its clever intertwining of pop music with Hollywood’s romantic imagery.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U95Zk5nBQIM

# 6 – “Heartlight” – Neil Diamond (E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial)

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial - 40th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray + DVD + Digital

“Heartlight” by Neil Diamond is a tender ballad inspired by the 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Released in August 1982 as the lead single from Diamond’s album Heartlight, the song became a major hit, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary chart for four weeks. The song’s themes of friendship, hope, and saying goodbye reflect the heartwarming and emotional elements of E.T., even though the song does not appear in the film itself.

Diamond, along with songwriting collaborators Carole Bayer Sager and Burt Bacharach, penned “Heartlight” after being moved by the story of E.T., particularly the bond between the alien and his human friend, Elliott. While the lyrics do not explicitly reference E.T., the inspiration is clear in lines like “Turn on your heartlight, let it shine wherever you go” and “Let it make a happy glow for all the world to see”, which capture the film’s central message of love, friendship, and connection.

Musically, “Heartlight” is a gentle, uplifting track that showcases Diamond’s signature smooth vocal delivery, accompanied by soft piano melodies and rich orchestration. The song’s warm, soothing arrangement reflects the emotional warmth of E.T., and its feel-good nature resonated with audiences, becoming one of Diamond’s most beloved songs. Though not an official part of the E.T. soundtrack, “Heartlight” captures the spirit of the movie, making it a fitting tribute to the beloved 1980s classic.

The song’s connection to E.T. extended beyond its emotional inspiration—there were reports that Diamond, Sager, and Bacharach had to pay a settlement to Universal Studios due to the song’s clear association with the film, though “Heartlight” never directly mentions E.T. by name. Regardless, “Heartlight” remains a standout track in Neil Diamond’s discography, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and timeless appeal.

# 5 – The Ghost Of Tom Joad – Bruce Springsteen (The Grapes Of Wrath)

“The Ghost of Tom Joad” by Bruce Springsteen is a poignant and politically charged song inspired by John Steinbeck’s classic novel The Grapes of Wrath and the subsequent 1940 film adaptation directed by John Ford. Released as the title track on Springsteen’s 1995 acoustic album The Ghost of Tom Joad, the song serves as both a tribute to Steinbeck’s character and a reflection on the ongoing struggles of the poor and disenfranchised in modern America. The song resonated with listeners, even though it did not become a mainstream hit, and remains one of Springsteen’s most critically acclaimed works.

In The Grapes of Wrath, Tom Joad is a Depression-era ex-convict who becomes a symbol of resilience and social justice as he fights for the rights of migrant workers. In his song, Springsteen imagines Joad’s spirit haunting modern America, a ghost of the working class who continues to wander through desolate highways and broken communities. The lyrics “Now Tom said, ‘Mom, wherever there’s a cop beating a guy / Wherever a hungry newborn baby cries / Wherever there’s a fight ‘gainst the blood and hatred in the air / Look for me, Mom, I’ll be there'” echo the famous speech from Steinbeck’s novel, where Joad promises to fight for justice even after he’s gone.

Musically, “The Ghost of Tom Joad” is a stripped-down, haunting folk ballad, with Springsteen’s voice and acoustic guitar taking center stage. The minimalist production enhances the bleakness and sorrow of the song’s message, much like the hardships portrayed in The Grapes of Wrath. Springsteen’s lyrics also address modern issues, such as economic inequality, immigration, and the failure of the American Dream, drawing a direct connection between the struggles of Steinbeck’s era and those of the 1990s.

The Ghost of Tom Joad is often compared to Springsteen’s earlier work, particularly the Nebraska album, which also dealt with themes of isolation and injustice in America. The song has been covered by Rage Against the Machine, whose version adds a harder, more aggressive edge to the original folk melody, further amplifying its message of rebellion and resistance.

This song is a standout in the list of best rock songs inspired by films because it not only pays homage to The Grapes of Wrath but also elevates its themes into a contemporary context, making it timeless in its relevance and power.

# 4 – ” “2HB” Roxy Music, about Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca

“2HB” by Roxy Music is a subtle, art-rock tribute to the iconic actor Humphrey Bogart, particularly celebrating his role in Casablanca. Featured on Roxy Music’s 1972 self-titled debut album, the song blends Ferry’s admiration for Bogart with the band’s signature experimental sound. The title itself, “2HB,” stands for “To Humphrey Bogart,” a clever abbreviation that encapsulates the song’s tribute nature without being overtly obvious.

Musically, “2HB” stands out on Roxy Music due to its sophisticated, moody atmosphere, largely driven by Ferry’s Hohner Pianet N electric piano. The song features a prominent saxophone solo from Andy Mackay that directly references Casablanca‘s famous theme, “As Time Goes By.” Mackay’s solo, enhanced by Brian Eno’s innovative tape echo effects, offers a haunting, cinematic quality, underscoring the timelessness and romance associated with Bogart’s screen persona. The production is atmospheric and layered, adding a melancholic feel that mirrors the wistfulness of Casablanca.

Lyrically, the song touches on themes of immortality and stardom, with lines like “You gave your love to me softly” evoking the romance and mystique associated with Bogart’s characters. Ferry’s understated vocal delivery further reinforces the song’s subtlety and elegance.

Though not a commercial hit, “2HB” has left a lasting impression, particularly in its influence on other artists. The track has been covered by The Venus in Furs—a supergroup featuring members like Jonny Greenwood and Thom Yorke for the 1998 film Velvet Goldmine. Its understated tribute style also inspired bands like Madness and The Human League to create their own homage songs, “4BF” and “4JG” respectively.

In many ways, “2HB” captures the spirit of a rock song based on a movie, fitting perfectly into a list of best rock songs that draw inspiration from film. The song doesn’t just reference Casablanca but artfully reinterprets its emotional core, creating an atmospheric tribute that resonates with the iconic status of Humphrey Bogart.

# 3 – Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival about The Devil and Daniel Webster

The Devil & Daniel Webster (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

“Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival is a quintessential example of a rock song inspired by cinema. Written by John Fogerty and released on their 1969 album Green River, this classic tune takes its dark imagery from The Devil and Daniel Webster, a 1941 film about a man who makes a deal with the devil, only to face disastrous consequences. Fogerty specifically cited a scene where a hurricane ravages a town as the spark for the ominous lyrics, like “I hear hurricanes a-blowin’, I know the end is comin’ soon.”

While musically upbeat, with its signature swamp-rock rhythm and jangly guitar work, the lyrics tell a much darker story. Themes of destruction and impending doom dominate the song, with lines like “I see bad times today” and “Looks like we’re in for nasty weather.” Fogerty’s intent was to evoke an apocalyptic feeling, reflecting a sense of inevitable disaster. The contrast between the song’s lively tempo and its apocalyptic lyrics is one of its defining features, creating an unsettling tension.

Chart-wise, “Bad Moon Rising” was a significant success for Creedence Clearwater Revival, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of their most enduring hits. Its mixture of rock, blues, and a hint of country helped define the band’s unique sound, and it has been widely covered by artists across genres.

Fogerty’s ability to capture cinematic intensity in the lyrics elevates the song, making it a strong candidate for any list of rock songs inspired by movies. With its memorable refrain “Don’t go around tonight, Well it’s bound to take your life, There’s a bad moon on the rise,” the song embodies the chilling tension of the movie that inspired it, while also taking on broader interpretations related to personal and social upheaval.

# 2 – “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” – Elton John – Title and imagery inspired by The Wizard Of Oz

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John, with lyrics by Bernie Taupin, is a masterful song that intricately intertwines personal reflection with cultural references, notably drawing imagery from The Wizard of Oz. Released in 1973 as the title track of Elton John’s double album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, the song has become one of his most beloved and iconic hits.

The title itself makes an immediate connection to The Wizard of Oz, where the yellow brick road is a symbol of the journey toward something grand, mysterious, and often unattainable. In the film, Dorothy follows the yellow brick road to the Emerald City, a place of promises and dreams. In Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, however, Bernie Taupin flips this concept on its head. The lyrics speak of rejecting the glitz and glamour of fame, with Taupin essentially saying goodbye to the fantasy and opting for a simpler, more grounded life.

As Taupin explained, the song reflects the differences in lifestyle between him and Elton John. While John had embraced the extravagant life of a rock star, Taupin preferred to keep things low-key, avoiding the wild excess that came with fame. In many ways, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is Taupin’s farewell to the glittering, showbiz lifestyle that he was not interested in living. Lines like “So goodbye yellow brick road, where the dogs of society howl, you can’t plant me in your penthouse” highlight his desire to escape the artificial and materialistic world he feels trapped in.

The album cover for Goodbye Yellow Brick Road furthers the connection to The Wizard of Oz. It features Elton John stepping out onto the yellow brick road, dressed flamboyantly, but symbolically looking toward the vast unknown. This imagery perfectly encapsulates the song’s themes of breaking away from the fantasy and returning to something more real.

The Goodbye Yellow Brick Road project itself was a monumental one in Elton John’s career. Not only did the album become one of his most successful, topping charts worldwide, but it also established him as a global superstar. With hits like “Bennie and the Jets”, “Candle in the Wind”, and “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting”, the album cemented John’s place in pop culture, much like The Wizard of Oz remains a lasting part of cinematic history.

Over time, the song has grown beyond its original meaning, resonating with listeners as an anthem for leaving behind toxic relationships, unhealthy lifestyles, or simply walking away from something that no longer serves them. Much like Dorothy’s journey in The Wizard of Oz, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road speaks to the human desire to find a path toward authenticity, making it a timeless classic in both music and pop culture.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_3T4DGw10U

# 1 – “Godzilla” by Blue Öyster Cult – about Godzilla

Godzilla, the Showa-Era Films, 1954 1975 (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

“Godzilla” by Blue Öyster Cult is a raucous and playful ode to the iconic Japanese monster, drawing direct inspiration from the 1954 film Godzilla, directed by Ishirō Honda. The film introduced the world to Godzilla, a massive prehistoric reptile awakened by nuclear radiation. Initially conceived as a metaphor for nuclear destruction—particularly in the wake of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings—Godzilla became an enduring symbol of both destruction and, in later iterations, reluctant heroism. The monster’s epic battles against other kaiju, like King Ghidorah and Mothra, cemented its status as the “King of the Monsters.” The cultural impact of the film was so profound that Godzilla spawned an entire genre of kaiju films, over thirty Japanese and American movies, and became an international pop culture icon. In the song, Blue Öyster Cult capture the chaos, destruction, and awe-inspiring power of Godzilla, while also maintaining a sense of fun with tongue-in-cheek lyrics.

Released in 1977 on their Spectres album, “Godzilla” became one of Blue Öyster Cult’s most beloved tracks, alongside hits like “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” and “Burnin’ for You.” While the song didn’t initially chart, it received significant airplay on rock radio and has remained a staple in their live performances. The lyrics tell the story of Godzilla’s rampage, with lines like “Oh no, there goes Tokyo, go go Godzilla!” paying homage to the towering monster as it wreaks havoc on cities. This clever mixture of humor and classic rock power made the song a fan favorite, blending the colossal imagery of Godzilla with the band’s signature hard rock sound. Guitarist Buck Dharma’s driving riffs and Eric Bloom’s powerful vocals capture the destruction and chaos Godzilla brings wherever it goes. The song’s iconic riff is instantly recognizable, and its inclusion in various media over the years—most notably covered by Serj Tankian in the 2019 film Godzilla: King of the Monsters—has solidified its place in rock history.

The music video for “Godzilla” features black-and-white clips from the original Godzilla films, emphasizing the song’s cinematic roots. The band members themselves appear only briefly, as the spotlight remains on the legendary kaiju. This video further connects the song to the rich cinematic history of the monster, even though the track was not featured in any of the early Godzilla movies. In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John, which draws from The Wizard of Oz, and “A Girl Like You” by The Smithereens, based on Say Anything…, “Godzilla” stands out for directly paying tribute to the iconic monster without straying into metaphor. While the track wasn’t used in the 1998 Godzilla film, Blue Öyster Cult responded with a lighthearted parody called “NoZilla,” continuing their long-standing connection to the character.

“Godzilla” is the perfect closing track for this list. It celebrates not just the monster itself, but the broader impact movies can have on rock music. Blue Öyster Cult’s homage to one of cinema’s most enduring monsters perfectly encapsulates the theme of this article: rock songs inspired by the big screen. Whether through lighthearted tributes or deep metaphorical connections, films have influenced countless rock songs, and none do it better than Blue Öyster Cult’s monstrous anthem.