Music and movies: Ranking John Carney’s songs from his musical trilogy!
John Carney, one of the most underrated directors of our time, has left an indelible mark on the world of music with his captivating musical trilogy that has captured the hearts of audiences everywhere. The first installment, Once, tells the story of a vacuum repairman who moonlights as a street musician and forms a musical bond with a Czech immigrant. The second film, Begin Again, follows a disillusioned music producer who discovers a talented singer-songwriter just when he has given up hope in life. Lastly, Sing Street revolves around a young boy who forms a band to escape his troubled family life and impress a girl he admires.
These films have stood the test of time, continuing to amass dedicated followings as the years go by. Notably, Once and Sing Street have even made their way to Broadway, solidifying their lasting impact. Additionally, Carney has showcased his talent by developing and directing episodes of Modern Love, an American romantic comedy anthology based on The New York Times‘s weekly column of the same name. As the showrunner, he has curated a rich soundtrack that features some of his own work.
Today, we present a countdown of our favorite tracks from Carney’s trilogy! This is an invitation for you to delve into the magical, poignant, and hopeful soundscapes that grace his films. From Once to Sing Street, let this list serve as a reminder to revisit the trilogy. Or, if you haven’t had the pleasure, let it convince you to embark on this musical journey!
Music and movies: Ranking John Carney’s songs from his musical trilogy!
5. Tell Me If You Wanna Go Home (Begin Again, 2013)
Why not kick off our list with one of his films’ heartwarming songs? Written by Gregg Alexander (known for A Walk to Remember) and Nick Lashley, and performed by Keira Knightley, who also stars in Begin Again, this song perfectly captures the essence of living in New York City. With its memorable chorus and lively rhythm, it will make you want to leave everything behind and embark on an adventure in the Big Apple!
Interestingly, the song has two versions: the original and the rooftop mix. The latter features an electrifying extended outro by Hailee Steinfeld, who portrays Violet Mulligan in the film. Her reconciliation with his father in the movie through their shared passion for music is something you should look out for! Moreover, It’s worth noting that there are two versions, where one of which is the rooftop mix from the recording scene in the film. Regardless, both versions still evoke the enchantment of aimlessly wandering through the bustling city streets!
4. Step You Can’t Take Back (Begin Again, 2013)
Written by Carney, Alexander, and Danielle Brisebois (known for her work on All in the Family) and performed by Knightley, this song sets the stage for a delightful experience early on in the film. It is placed near the beginning, where Gretta, portrayed by Keira, reluctantly takes the stage and delivers a heartfelt acoustic rendition. Unbeknownst to her, Dan, a washed-up record producer played by Mark Ruffalo, happens to be in the audience.
In a brilliant twist, the film takes us into Dan’s imagination as he envisions a fully produced version of Gretta’s performance. Then, as each instrument begins to join in, orchestrated within Dan’s mind, it creates an unforgettable moment that will leave you compelled to rewatch the film time and again. Clearly capturing the magic of the scene, this imagined rendition is what we hear on the soundtrack album. Granted it’s a breathtaking sequence that cannot be described in words, you simply have to see it for yourself!
3. Up (Sing Street, 2016)
Sing Street has gradually garnered a well-deserved following throughout the years. The film’s soundtrack continues to enchant listeners with its refreshing and dreamy tunes. One standout track, Up, composed by John Carney, Graham Henderson, Carl Papenfus, Ken Papenfus, and Zamo Riffman, with lyrics by Gary Clark, captures the essence of a unique and extraordinary romance that transcends the ordinary.
Up is the second song created by Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) and Eamon (Mark McKenna) in Eamon’s living room. It serves as an expression of Conor’s deepening emotions for Raphina (Lucy Boynton). Picture the music playing in the background as Raphina removes her makeup, the band eagerly performs, and Eamon’s mom joyfully embraces the rhythm. Such a perfect montage that enhances the song’s poignant impact while flying above Cloud 9!
2. Go Now (Sing Street, 2016)
The Sing Street soundtrack is truly remarkable, blending new wave hits and original songs that flawlessly capture the essence of 80s pop music. It’s a playlist that appeals to all ages, delivering an unforgettable musical experience. However, amidst its impressive lineup, there’s one particular song that defies expectations and leaves a lasting impact. Go Now, written by John Carney, Glen Hansard, and Adam Levine, and passionately performed by Maroon 5’s lead singer, serves as the perfect culmination of the entire film, evoking heartfelt emotions.
In the film, Brendan (Jack Reynor) persuades his brother to chase his dreams beyond their secluded island, prompting Conor and Raphina to embark on a new life in London. Then, while Brendan watches them sail into the distance, he cheers with overwhelming joy. After seeing him depressed for a long time, seeing him regain his confidence from knowing that his younger brother has taken a leap toward greater things just makes us fall in love with the movie even more. These emotionally-charged scenes unfold while Adam serenades us with Go Now until the very end. Definitely, it’s a poignant conclusion that exemplifies the power of music and the pursuit of dreams in the movie.
1. Falling Slowly (Once, 2007)
Finally, we’ll conclude our list with the song that started it all. Falling Slowly, written and performed by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová in the movie, earned critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Talk about the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Song in 2008. The song is played in a music store in one of the scenes, with Glen on acoustic guitar and Markéta on the piano. Its delicate musicality, coupled with poetic verses and a soulful blend of their voices, evokes a profound emotional response in anyone who had seen its fruition in the film.
Truly majestic, Falling Slowly has since become a standout song that continues to captivate audiences. Moreover, it has been featured multiple times in the Broadway adaptation of Once, solidifying its status as one of the most poignant compositions in Carney’s musical repertoire. Ultimately, the song beautifully portrays the struggles and resilience of a couple as they navigate the complexities of their relationship, transcending and descending through time with each heartfelt note.
Of course, we’re not done with the awesome director. So, watch out for our future features with the man, John Carney! But before you leave, you might want to watch the newest interview on IMDb with the cast of Carney’s new film, Flora and Son!
