Goodfellas Movie Song Soundtrack Listing

The Unforgettable Melodies of Goodfellas: A Look into the Iconic Soundtrack

Summary

Table of Contents

Goodfellas features a remarkable soundtrack comprising Italian classics, pop-rock hits, and American standards.
Martin Scorsese’s meticulous selection of music enhances the film’s narrative and character development.
While the official soundtrack includes 12 mainstream songs, the movie incorporates a total of 43 tracks, each contributing to its cinematic brilliance.

From the very first scene, Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas captivates audiences with its compelling storytelling and unforgettable soundtrack. Released in 1990, the film transports viewers into the gritty world of organized crime, accompanied by a soundtrack that seamlessly weaves through decades of music history. In this in-depth exploration, we’ll dissect every song featured in Goodfellas, uncovering the significance of each track and its contribution to the film’s iconic status.

Every Song in Goodfellas: A Musical Journey

In Goodfellas, music is more than just background noise; it’s a narrative device that adds depth to each scene and character interaction. Let’s take a closer look at the 12 featured songs and the additional tracks that enrich the film’s sonic landscape:

1. “Rags to Riches” – Tony Bennett 2. “Sincerely” – The Moonglows 3. “Speedo” – The Cadillacs 4. “Stardust” – Billy Ward and His Dominoes 5. “Look in My Eyes” – The Chantels 6. “Life Is But a Dream” – The Harptones 7. “Remember (Walkin’ in the Sand)” – The Shangri-Las 8. “Baby I Love You” – Aretha Franklin 9. “Beyond the Sea” – Bobby Darin 10. “Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream 11. “Mannish Boy” – Muddy Waters 12. “Layla” – Derek and the Dominos

In addition to these main tracks, the Goodfellas soundtrack includes a diverse selection of songs that enhance the film’s atmosphere and themes. From Italian ballads to rock anthems, each song contributes to the rich tapestry of Goodfellas‘ musical landscape.

Musical Moments: When Each Song Takes the Spotlight

The brilliance of Goodfellas lies not only in its storytelling but also in its use of music to evoke emotion and atmosphere. Here’s a breakdown of key moments in the film accompanied by their iconic musical selections:

“Rags to Riches”: Sets the tone for the film’s opening scene, establishing Henry Hill’s desire for a life of luxury and power.
“Speedo”: Accompanies Jimmy Conway’s introduction, foreshadowing the violence and chaos that lie ahead.
“Then He Kissed Me”: Scores the famous Copacabana tracking shot, showcasing Henry’s rise in the criminal underworld.
“Life Is But a Dream”: Captures the bliss of Henry and Karen’s early romance, juxtaposed against the darker elements of their relationship.
“Gimme Shelter”: Heightens the tension during the cocaine-fueled paranoia of the film’s climax, reflecting Henry’s unraveling psyche.
“Layla”: Accompanies a montage of violence and betrayal, underscoring the consequences of Henry’s actions.

Each song in Goodfellas is carefully selected to enhance the mood and narrative of the film, creating a cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.

Scorsese’s Soundtrack Rules: The Secret to Musical Mastery

Martin Scorsese’s approach to selecting music for his films is both meticulous and strategic. By adhering to two strict rules, Scorsese ensures that each song serves a purpose and enhances the overall impact of the film:

Avoidance of Anachronisms: Every song must be from the same era as the scene it accompanies, maintaining authenticity and immersion.
Narrative Relevance: Each song must convey a direct or subtle meaning related to the scene’s themes or character development, adding depth and resonance to the storytelling.

These rules not only create a seamless integration of music and visuals but also enhance the audience’s understanding and emotional connection to the film’s narrative.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Perfect Soundtrack

While Martin Scorsese is credited with curating the Goodfellas soundtrack, he’s not alone in shaping its musical identity. Music editor Chris Brooks played a crucial role in translating Scorsese’s vision into reality. In an interview with Esquire, Brooks reflects on the collaborative process of selecting and placing songs within the film’s narrative.

Brooks reveals that Scorsese had a deep understanding of each song’s significance long before filming began, mapping out the soundtrack with precision and foresight. As the film took shape in the editing room, Brooks worked alongside Scorsese and editor Thelma Schoonmaker to fine-tune the placement of each track, ensuring that the music complemented the visuals seamlessly.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Goodfellas’ Soundtrack

Goodfellas is not just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Central to its enduring appeal is its unforgettable soundtrack, which elevates the storytelling to new heights. From the opening notes of “Rags to Riches” to the haunting strains of “My Way,” each song in Goodfellas contributes to its status as a cinematic masterpiece.

As we revisit the world of Henry Hill and the Lucchese crime family, we’re reminded of the power of music to evoke emotion, illuminate character, and transport us to another time and place. Goodfellas may be a story of crime and betrayal, but it’s also a celebration of the enduring power of music to shape our lives and experiences.

Goodfellas

Goodfellas is a 1990 crime film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta. Based on Nicholas Pileggi’s book Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, the film chronicles the rise and fall of mobster Henry Hill and is celebrated for its innovative storytelling and iconic soundtrack.