As a child of the ’90s, I can attest that few things bring as much nostalgic joy as the soundtrack of Whitney Houston‘s iconic hits. Each use of her music in films adds a unique charm and depth to the scenes they grace.
A “needle drop” refers to the practice of incorporating a previously released song, frequently by a well-known artist, into a film or television show. It’s often carefully planned, adding depth to the given scene, either through the song’s lyrics, its emotional resonance, or simply its overall mood. Some songs have even become inextricably linked with specific media, like “Bang Bang” by Nancy Sinatra and the first volume of “Kill Bill.
Instead of saying “Who better to needle drop than Whitney Houston, the legendary golden-voiced singer?” you could say “There’s no one more suitable for a needle drop than the iconic, powerfully voiced Whitney Houston.” Throughout her career, she has graced numerous films and TV shows with her music. While some of her songs like “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” or “I Will Always Love You” are used more frequently, each one brings a unique touch to the scene they’re played in, adding depth and beauty to the storyline. Here is a list of the most impactful Whitney Houston needle drops in movies and TV shows.
10 Firefly Lane – I’m Every Woman
Firefly Lane is a captivating television series that revolves around an enduring friendship. As young girls, Kate (portrayed by Sarah Chalke) and Tully (Katherine Heigl) crossed paths and have remained virtually attached ever since. The narrative unfolds over the span of three decades, chronicling their journey as friends, navigating through various highs and lows in their personal lives.
Tully Is Every Woman
In the fourth episode of Season 2, titled “Papa Don’t Preach,” character Tully starts her day at 3 AM for work. The decision to play “I’m Every Woman” during this scene carries significant weight as it symbolizes Tully embodying all the tireless women whose efforts are frequently overlooked. This upbeat tune honors womanhood, especially since its music video featured pregnant Houston at that time. Tully is an outstanding female protagonist who encounters challenges similar to those faced by many other women.
9 Scandal – I Believe In You and Me
Kerry Washington is the leading actress in the show Scandal. In this role, she portrays Olivia Pope, a woman who previously worked as a media advisor for the President of the U.S., but now runs her own crisis management business. As she navigates the challenges that come with such a position, she must also be cautious around some of her team members, as not all may be as reliable as they appear.
A Poignant Stand Against Sexual Harrassment
In Episode 14 of Season 7 titled “The List,” character Megan addresses a press conference concerning a character’s suicide due to being forced into sexual acts for employment. She encourages fellow women to share their stories of power or sexual misconduct, and the song “I Believe in You and Me” plays subtly in the background. This moving tune, sung softly, underscores this intense moment, adding an emotional depth. Originally a love song, its lyrics are reused here to underscore Megan’s belief in herself and other women to speak up against their harassers.
8 Love, Simon – I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)
As a passionate cinephile, let me tell you about the heartwarming tale of Simon, the central figure in “Love, Simon.” Hiding his true self as a gay teenager within the confines of high school, Simon’s life takes an unexpected turn when an anonymous threat forces him to step out of the shadows and embrace his identity. Facing this challenge head-on, he bravely comes clean to those closest to him, embarking on a journey that is both enlightening and empowering for all involved.
Simon’s Dreams of Being Free to Dance with Anybody
As Simon envisions his future life beyond confinement, he dreams of boldly revealing his true identity at school – open and proud about being gay. In the background, Whitney Houston’s empowering tune “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” serenades the scene. Known for her admiration among LGBTQ+ communities, Whitney Houston’s music often graces shows such as RuPaul’s Drag Race. This moment in Love, Simon continues this tradition. Moreover, the song’s lyrics hold significance: Simon yearns to freely “dance with” (or date) anyone he chooses, and for society to embrace that choice.
7 The Photograph – You Give Good Love
The story, titled The Photograph, revolves around a woman who is the daughter of a renowned photographer but has grown estranged from her family. She finds herself drawn into a romantic relationship with an investigative journalist, who is delving into the mysterious death of her mother. As their bond deepens, she moves both closer and further away from uncovering the truth about her mother’s disappearance, as well as the suspected role of her father in the events.
A Sultry Song for a Steamy Scene
From a movie enthusiast’s perspective, the song “You Give Good Love” adds an extra layer of heat and intrigue at a pivotal moment in the story. The lyrics, intentionally or not, are laced with sexual undertones, such as “baby, you give good love,” which could be interpreted as more than just affection, or “take this heart of mine into your hands,” suggesting a touch that’s more about intimacy than emotion. In the context of the film, these lyrics serve to underscore the romantic tension on screen.
6 This Is Us – I Will Always Love You
As a movie enthusiast, I find myself deeply immersed in the heart-wrenching storyline of “This Is Us”. In this captivating series, I, along with three other characters, Kevin, Kate, and Randall, navigate through a multitude of personal hardships that life has thrown our way. A tragic event from our shared past casts a long shadow over our lives, yet we persevere in pursuit of happiness. For instance, my character, Kate, experiences a tumultuous marriage with her husband, Toby.
I Will Never Love You Again
In episode “Katoby” from Season 6, Kate and Toby officially part ways legally. As they ride the elevator back down to the lobby, Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” plays over the speakers, causing them both to chuckle. The song, played in a non-traditional way, injects humor into the scene; it symbolizes that even amidst tough times, joy can still be discovered, which is the essence of the series. This is an unusual instance where a Whitney Houston song is utilized for secondhand comedy instead of primary understanding.
5 The Preacher’s Wife – Joy to the World (with Georgia Mass Choir)
In my perspective, The Preacher’s Wife narrates a tale about me, a Baptist minister named Reverend Henry Biggs, who finds myself in a tough spot financially, trying to maintain our church. My personal life isn’t any better; I’ve been distant from my son Jeremiah and my beloved wife Julia. Romantically, things aren’t looking up either. But just when I thought there was no hope, divine intervention seems to be in the works as an angel, Dudley, descends to lend a helping hand.
Houston’s Christian Values ShineThrough
In the film, Houston takes on the character of a choir member, a part that seems tailor-made for her exceptional talent. She performs numerous songs alongside the choir, several of which have gained recognition beyond the movie’s scope. One such song is “Joy to the World,” a cover of a traditional church hymn, that beautifully conveys the joy Houston felt as a Christian and her constant desire to bring positivity into the world. This was indeed reflected in her actions throughout her life. The way this role aligns with the film’s narrative and mirrors the singer herself is a testament to one of Whitney Houston’s most effective musical appearances.
4 The Bodyguard – Run to You
In this movie titled “The Bodyguard,” Whitney Houston portrays a famous pop star pursued by a menacing stalker. Meanwhile, Kevin Costner plays a skilled U.S. Secret Service officer tasked with protecting her as her personal bodyguard. Their relationship evolves through the storyline, moving from closeness to separation.
A Slower Moment in an Action Film
In this film titled “The Bodyguard“, a significant portion of its soundtrack is derived from Whitney Houston’s songs, contributing to its recognition. While not all instances of using her music are completely justified, the song “Run to You” fits perfectly when the singer and the celebrity grow closer. This moment is accentuated by a romantic, slow-tempo tune, making it an apt choice. Love songs often feature prominently in films, but incorporating “Run to You” amidst an action movie adds a refreshing change of rhythm.
3 Spider-Man: Far From Home – I Will Always Love You
As a movie critic, I found myself immersed in the thrilling tale of Spider-Man: Far From Home, set in a world that’s still reeling from the aftermath of Tony Stark, or Iron-Man, heroically defeating Thanos. The story unfolds in a unique scenario where half of the global population miraculously awakens from a four-year slumber, as if they had been in a prolonged coma, only to find that time had moved on and everyone else had grown older while they remained unchanged.
There’s Humor in Grief
The emotional song I Will Always Love You is used over a student slideshow to honor Tony Stark, Captain America, Black Widow and Vision, shown on the high school’s televisions. This is a hilarious use of an otherwise very serious song, which shows the sadness that the world has lost one of its heroes, but putting it over a slideshow brings humor to the situation. There were many ways to use this song, probably Houston’s most famous, and respect its deep meaning, but this scene was somehow the best.
2 13 Going on 30 – I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)
13 Going on 30 is a beloved movie from the early 2000s that falls into the category of teen and young adult films. The storyline is straightforward: At thirteen, Jenna yearns for adulthood, only to miraculously find herself transformed into her thirty-year-old self, portrayed by Jennifer Garner. However, despite her physical transformation, she retains her youthful spirit, and things don’t unfold as she had imagined.
A Pop Hit for ’90s Jenna
In the scenario when Jenna applies makeup and steps into the elevator accompanied by her youthful neighbor Becky, the tune “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” starts playing. The lively pop song adds a dash of humor to the situation as Jenna, appearing in 90s youth attire and adjusting her attire, navigates her way towards her fresh start in adulthood. This moment is renowned in cinematic history, a cleverly placed song reference that was a signature move of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
1 I Wanna Dance with Somebody – I Didn’t Know My Own Strength
As a devoted fan, I can’t imagine anything more fitting than starting with the documentary, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” which beautifully narrates the life story of the legend herself. It delves into her meteoric rise to fame, yet doesn’t shy away from revealing her battles and hardships that she faced along the way. Although it may not have received the highest ratings, this musical documentary is a goldmine of anecdotes about the singer that every fan should cherish.
A Song about Getting Out of Rehab
The powerful moment to utilize “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength” arises when she steps out of rehabilitation following her battles with drug and alcohol addiction, and delivers her inaugural concert. This song, brimming with emotion, narrates the tale of a woman who has lost her dream and inner self, requiring a fresh start much like someone who successfully completes rehab. Could there be a more fitting musical cue than in a film about the artist herself?
Regardless of its length, a scene incorporating a Whitney Houston song will undeniably infuse it with soul. In fact, some films have been built around Whitney Houston’s music, such as “The Bodyguard” and “The Preacher’s Wife,” creating an experience that is indelible in memory. Even though Whitney Houston passed away in 2012, her voice and impact live on.
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2024-10-20 05:32