With recent film and television projects such as Twisters and Landman, it seems like country music and cinema are becoming a more familiar pair. However, this is not a new occurrence in the slightest. Matter of fact, Hollywood and Nashville have had a relationship that spans several generations.
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That being so, there have been numerous acclaimed films that revolve around and or include some of country music’s finest songs and albums. Of course, biopics are some of them, however, this list will leave them out. So, here are three non-biopic films that feature incredible country music soundtracks.
‘Urban Cowboy’
Starring John Travolta, this 1980 classic features some of the best country music of the century. Given the title and the plot of the movie, it comes as no surprise that country music amplifies the atmospheric tone of the film. Compiled by Mickey Gilley, the soundtrack is a country music movie staple.
We could mention the 18 country classics featured on the soundtrack, but frankly, there are only three that need to be mentioned. “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “Hello Texas,” and “Darlin’” are just three of the acclaimed songs featured on the soundtrack. To hear the other 15, you just got to watch the movie.
‘Pure Country’
The film’s lead is George Strait, so of course there is going to be great country music. Released in 1992, the film’s soundtrack includes 10 original songs from the King of Country himself. Some of the more notable Strait songs from the film are “Heartland” and “I Cross My Heart.”
Many could argue that if it wasn’t for Strait’s music, this film would have not been nearly as successful as it was. Following its release, the soundtrack of the film became one of the best-selling country soundtracks of all time. As of now, the soundtrack has sold over six million units.
‘Crazy Heart’
Townes Van Zandt, Waylon Jennings, Buck Owens, and Ryan Bingham are just a few of the names featured on this film’s soundtrack. Released in 2010, the film’s country soundtrack is certainly one of its most notable features. That being so, the soundtrack of the film garnered the Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media.
Additionally, the theme song, “The Weary Kind,” written and sung by Ryan Bingham, won a Grammy, Oscar, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice Award. Bingham’s song is the pinnacle piece of original music on the soundtrack, but the oldies are goodies as well.
Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images
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