Quentin Tarantino is renowned for his masterful use of music to elevate his films, and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is no exception. This listicle explores the most surprising and memorable music choices Tarantino made in this film, offering insights for film enthusiasts, music lovers, and Tarantino fans alike. Whether you’re interested in why certain tracks were selected or how they enhance the storytelling, this breakdown reveals the artistry behind Tarantino’s soundtrack curation.
1. “Bring a Little Lovin’” by Los Bravos
In the opening scenes, Tarantino uses Los Bravos’ “Bring a Little Lovin’,” a 1967 garage rock track, to set a nostalgic yet gritty tone. Its energetic rhythm and raw vocals evoke the late 1960s California vibe, immersing viewers immediately into the film’s era. The song’s upbeat yet slightly rebellious feel underscores the carefree yet tense atmosphere that pervades the film’s early moments.
2. “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” by Vanilla Fudge
This cover of The Supremes’ classic is a slow, psychedelic rendition that Tarantino employs during a pivotal scene at the Spahn Ranch. Its distorted, haunting sound contrasts sharply with the original Motown hit, emphasizing the eerie, unsettling mood of the scene. Tarantino’s choice here highlights his knack for reinterpreting familiar songs to deepen emotional resonance.
3. “Out of Time Man” by Mick Jagger
During the film’s climax, Mick Jagger’s “Out of Time Man” plays subtly in the background, adding a layer of introspection. Its bluesy, soulful tone complements the themes of change and nostalgia, reflecting Rick Dalton’s internal struggles. Tarantino’s inclusion of this lesser-known Jagger track demonstrates his deep knowledge of music history and his ability to find perfect sonic matches for nuanced storytelling.
4. “The 5.5” by The Rolling Stones
While not a traditional choice, Tarantino’s use of “The 5.5” by The Rolling Stones in a scene at a drive-in showcases his interest in lesser-known tracks from iconic bands. The song’s upbeat tempo and vintage sound evoke the era’s carefree spirit, reinforcing the film’s nostalgic aesthetic. Its placement also subtly hints at the shifting cultural landscape of 1969.
5. “Hush” by Deep Purple
Deep Purple’s “Hush” is featured during a lively scene at the Playboy Mansion, adding a sense of energy and decadence. Its heavy, psychedelic rock sound underscores the excess and hedonism of Hollywood’s golden age. Tarantino’s choice reflects his love for classic rock and his ability to blend popular tracks with the film’s mood.
6. “California Dreamin’” by Jose Feliciano
In a surprising twist, Tarantino opts for Jose Feliciano’s soulful cover of “California Dreamin’,” rather than The Mamas & the Papas’ original. This version’s warm, intimate tone lends a reflective quality to the scene, emphasizing themes of longing and change. It exemplifies Tarantino’s penchant for reimagining familiar songs with unique interpretations that deepen emotional impact.
7. “Bring a Little Lovin’” by Los Bravos
Reiterating its importance, this song bookends the film, framing the narrative with a nostalgic reflection on youth and freedom. Its energetic, rebellious spirit encapsulates the film’s overarching themes, making it a fitting musical motif that Tarantino weaves throughout the story.
8. “The Wreck of the Old 97” by Johnny Cash
This haunting folk ballad appears during a contemplative scene, adding a layer of Americana and storytelling depth. Cash’s deep voice and the song’s tragic narrative echo the film’s themes of fate and inevitable change. Tarantino’s use of this track highlights his mastery in selecting music that enhances narrative subtext.
9. “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel
Although not in the original cut, Tarantino considered using this iconic song during a key scene to evoke the 1960s counterculture. Its inclusion would have added a layer of irony and cultural commentary, but ultimately, he opted for other tracks that better suited his vision. This choice exemplifies how Tarantino carefully curates his soundtrack to match specific storytelling goals.
10. “Goodbye” by Jack Jones
As the film concludes, Jack Jones’ “Goodbye” offers a bittersweet farewell, encapsulating the nostalgic tone Tarantino crafts. Its lush orchestration and emotional depth provide a fitting end to a story rooted in memory and change, showcasing Tarantino’s ability to evoke complex feelings through music.
How to Choose
When selecting music for a film or project inspired by Tarantino’s approach, focus on a few key factors. First, consider the era and cultural context—songs that evoke the 1960s and 1970s are essential for authenticity. Second, think about how the mood of the track complements or contrasts with the scene—Tarantino often uses irony or subversion through unexpected song choices. Lastly, pay attention to lyrical content and tone; the right song should deepen the emotional undercurrent or reinforce thematic elements. Ultimately, what matters most is how the music enhances storytelling rather than just filling silence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did Tarantino choose obscure tracks over popular hits? Tarantino often prefers lesser-known songs to create a sense of discovery and to give his films a unique sonic identity, adding depth and authenticity.
- How does Tarantino match music to scenes? He considers the emotional tone, narrative context, and historical accuracy, selecting tracks that either complement or intentionally contrast the visuals for effect.
- Are the songs in the film licensed for commercial use? Yes, Tarantino meticulously secures licensing rights for each track, often negotiating unique agreements to use songs in ways that serve his storytelling.
- Does Tarantino write the music into the script? Not typically; he usually selects music during editing, ensuring each song fits seamlessly with the visual pacing and narrative flow.
- Can I recreate Tarantino’s soundtrack style for my own projects? Absolutely, but focus on authenticity, thematic relevance, and mood—choose songs that evoke the era and emotional landscape you want to portray.
Final Thoughts
Quentin Tarantino’s surprising and deliberate music choices in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” exemplify his mastery of soundtrack storytelling. From obscure garage rock to soulful covers, each track is carefully selected to evoke a specific era, mood, or emotional response. His ability to blend popular and lesser-known songs creates a layered auditory experience that enriches the visual narrative. For filmmakers, music enthusiasts, or anyone inspired by Tarantino’s style, understanding his approach offers valuable insights into how music can elevate storytelling and deepen audience engagement. Whether you’re curating a playlist or analyzing film soundtracks, Tarantino’s choices remind us that music isn’t just background—it’s an integral part of the story itself.
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