How the Compilation Album Came Together: Behind the Scenes of Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs
It’s not often that you come across a compilation album that embodies the very essence of a particular genre. But with “Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture,” the buzz and excitement was palpable right from its onset. The tracks on this album were not just your average soundtrack numbers. They were epic, iconic, and in a league of their own.
To understand how this masterpiece came together, we have to go back to 1981 when Heavy Metal (the animated movie) hit theaters across the US. It was an instant sensation, captivating audiences with its groundbreaking sci-fi themes, stunning animation and raunchy adult content. But the icing on the cake was undoubtedly its diverse selection of rock anthems that collectively built an unforgettable soundscape – bringing a raw energy and edge to each scene.
The producers knew they had something unique on their hands; so they enlisted legendary rockers Black Sabbath, Cheap Trick and Blue Öyster Cult amongst others – to create new tracks exclusively for the film.
They say necessity is the mother of invention; well it seems that principle applied here too! The filmmakers wanted songs that underscored specific moments in the film – hence creating dedicated new compositions seemed like a no-brainer.
But those were only half the battle-worn soldiers in this musical army; alongside these exclusive contributions came heavy hitters like Journey’s “Open Arms”, Stevie Nicks’ “Blue Lamp” and Don Felder’s “Heavy Metal (Takin’ A Ride)”. These classics added depth and balance to ensure every moment resonated with viewers’ emotions – be it adrenaline-pumping action or sensual scenes steered by ballad-like tunes.
Of course, getting all these top-tier musicians onboard wasn’t just about making cool music for a flick; it took meticulous planning, negotiation skills (and probably lots of coffee) before everyone signed up. Lee Aaron initially turned down her invitation because she wasn’t keen on singing over pre-recorded instrumental tracks – but she eventually agreed to it once the producers arranged for her to work more closely with the musicians responsible for the film’s orchestration.
Then there was Devo’s Mark Mothersbaugh, who came up with their track “Working in a Coal Mine” at the last minute. With the film’s deadline fast approaching, he quickly put together an arrangement for a cover of Allen Toussaint’s R&B hit from 1966. Despite being one of the most unique picks on this album, it perfectly underscores one of Heavy Metal’s most surreal segments.
When we listen to “Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture” now – 40 years after its release – it still packs a punch like a mosh pit! Whether you are listening to Sammy Hagar’s adrenaline-pumping “Heavy Metal,” Cheap Trick’s raging “Reach Out” or Nazareth’s haunting rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “This Flight Tonight,” this soundtrack set an unmatchable bar that paved way for future such compilations films could only dream about.
In short, putting together this compilation album required some serious musical prowess and planning; but what they got out of it was nothing less than musical history. It breathed life into rock n’ roll fans across generations, providing them with an anthem-ridden journey through space-time. And even today, when we listen to these songs, we can’t help but feel transported back in time to a place where anything felt possible – possibly heavier and probably far more electric than what we know today!
A Step-by-Step Look at the Making of Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs
The Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture soundtrack is a classic example of how music can enhance a movie’s overall atmosphere and tone. This album contains an eclectic mix of heavy metal tracks, with contributions from notable artists such as Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, Journey, and Cheap Trick.
Here’s an in-depth look at the making of various songs featured on this iconic soundtrack:
1. “Heavy Metal” by Sammy Hagar
The title track for the movie was written and performed by Sammy Hagar, who also has a cameo appearance in the film. The song perfectly captures the intensity and aggressive energy of heavy metal music while still managing to be catchy and memorable.
2. “Heartbeat” by Riggs
Riggs is one of several bands that contributed their own original songs to the Heavy Metal soundtrack. “Heartbeat” has a hard-driving beat with blistering guitar solos that lend themselves well to action scenes in the film.
3. “Veteran of the Psychic Wars” by Blue Öyster Cult
This hauntingly beautiful ballad was written specifically for Heavy Metal and performed by Blue Öyster Cult. The lyrics speak to war-torn warriors seeking refuge from conflict in distant planets but can easily be related back to our world today.
4. “True Companion” by Donald Fagen
Donald Fagen’s contribution to the soundtrack may not necessarily fit within the typical heavy metal genre, but his soulful vocals paired with jazzy rhythms provide for a much-needed break amidst all the high-octane rock anthems.
5. “Open Arms” by Journey
Journey’s emotional ballad wouldn’t feel out of place on any romance movie soundtrack but its inclusion on Heavy Metal transforms it into a powerful theme about sacrifice in love.
6. “The Mob Rules” by Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath’s soaring track underscores themes related to power struggles within societal structures—the sort that are central to the plot of the movie. It’s a heavy metal anthem that fans of the band will recognize as one of their most iconic songs.
7. “Heavy Metal (Takin’ a Ride)” by Don Felder
While Hagar’s “Heavy Metal” was an excellent title track, Don Felder’s version offers a more modernized feel to the song. With added synthesizers and electrifying guitar work, it is another must-have addition to any heavy metal playlist.
In conclusion, the Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture soundtrack has become widely known for its infectious heavy-metal beats and eclectic range in musical styles. Its cultural impact remains intact through connecting generations since its release in 1981- be sure to give it another listen!
Frequently Asked Questions About Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs
As a beloved cult classic film from the early 2000s, “The Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture” soundtrack remains an essential for any self-respecting heavy metal fan. However, with so many songs on the album – and quite a few editions of it – there are bound to be some questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked.
What is “Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture?”
“Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture” is an animated film from 1981 that features various visually-stunning segments set to a soundtrack that is predominantly made up of heavy metal songs. The soundtrack was subsequently released as an album, featuring artists like Black Sabbath, Blue Oyster Cult, Cheap Trick and Nazareth providing tracks that perfectly suit the movie’s sci-fi-meets-fantasy vibe.
How many editions does “Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture” have?
There have been multiple releases of this legendary album over the years, each featuring different tracks and running orders. The original vinyl release had thirteen tracks while later CD versions added extra songs that were formerly excluded due to unavailability or rights issues.
Some highly-prized variations exist including cassette tape releases, picture disc LPs (vinyl records with image printed onto them) and Japanese pressings with paper sleeves or bio inserts etc.
Who played on “Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture”?
Many popular bands contributed to this collection of hard-hitting tunes. Ozzy Osbourne performed his song Believe In It for Heavy Metal II in 2000 after he was replaced by Sammy Hagar for Good Time Zone in Heavy Metal back in 1981. Also heavily featured on this album were classic rockers like Journey and Stevie Nicks alongside up-and-coming metal bands like Riggs and Devo who put forth tunes representing different sub-genres but all united under theme of battling evil with music.
What are some of the most popular songs on “Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture”?
Many of the tracks on this album have reached icon status and continue to be played by heavy metal enthusiasts worldwide Cracked Actor (by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra), Heavy Metal, Working in Steel, and Do It Right (by Kenny Loggins) are all classic tracks that strongly resonate with fans of science fiction and fantasy realms, while tracks like Don Felder’s “Heavy Metal (Takin’ A Ride)” continues to feature regularly on Rock radio despite its age.
Why is this album so important to heavy metal music?
“Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture” is significant because it brought heavy metal music a mainstream following by incorporating it into an animated film. With its various segments reminiscent of AC/DC’s ‘Hell’s Bells’ or Black Sabbath’s ‘Iron Man,’ many young people were introduced to music that they would have otherwise dismissed as too aggressive. The album remains a crucial artifact for early connoisseurs who consider it one of the definitive examples of hard rock/heavy metal-inspired soundtracks.
In Conclusion
Any lover of heavy metal owes it to themselves to be extremely familiar with “Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture.” Filled with iconic tracks that have served as inspirations for countless bands and artists, any self-respecting rocker could tell you just how important this album is. Its vintage style may seem dated now but there is no escaping just how groundbreaking this soundtrack -and movie- was when first released back in 1981. From Doom-Rock riffage to New Wave experimentation, Heavy Metal music has continued evolving since then and just as new bands keep pushing boundaries every year there will always be interest in tracing where everything began. If you haven’t yet experienced these tunes or revisited them lately, we suggest you give your ears a treat.
Top 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs
Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture is a classic soundtrack that has been beloved by fans of heavy metal music for decades. Released in 1981, it features iconic tracks from various artists like Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, and Cheap Trick. But beyond the well-known hits, there are some interesting facts about the songs on this soundtrack that you may not have known. Here are five:
1. “Heavy Metal” by Sammy Hagar was originally written for another sci-fi movie.
Sammy Hagar’s unforgettable song “Heavy Metal” wasn’t actually written specifically for Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture. In fact, it was originally intended to be used in another science fiction film called Flash Gordon. However, after Hagar saw an early cut of Heavy Metal: The Movie and learned more about its high-energy concept, he knew his own track would be an ideal fit for that project instead.
2. “Veteran of The Psychic Wars” was first meant to be played by Devo
The hauntingly beautiful “Veteran of The Psychic Wars” is one of Blue Öyster Cult’s most famous tracks and is probably best remembered among cinephiles as the end credits song of Heavy Metal: The Movie however it almost never came into existence and even when it did Devo were supposed to play the track not Blue Oyster Cult! Although BOC ended up recording this epic tune themselves we cant ignore what pivotal role Devo once had in making all these come alive.
3. “I Must Be Dreamin’” was written especially for Heavy Metal
At odds with how few realise Veteran Of The Psychic Wars nearly missed our ears today entirely so little knowledge surrounds Riggs’ contribution ‘’I Must Be Dreamin’’. Written by Don Felder (lead guitarist of famously contentious Eagles), Jeff Baxter (also from Steely Dan ) and Keith Richards’ go-to saxophonist Bobby Keys paired with Kurtis Scott Phelps the track ‘I must be dreamin’ was written especially for Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture. In less than 3 minutes this piece captures the essence of all that heavy metal stood for in the early 80’s and beyond.
4. “Queen Bee” was originally written as a more somber ballad
Rhino’s contribution Queen Bee, a traditional rock number that has some impressive pipes behind it, sang by Grand Funk Railroad’s Mark Farner still packs a punch three decades on but its origins are up in arms because Funer originally intended to write something entirely different ! When he started to compose his tune he initially envisioned a somber ballad with lyrics about lost love, but upon hearing that Heavy Metal was looking for upbeat anthems, he decided to switch gears and turned it into the high-energy track we now know and love.
5. “Reach Out” features renowned musicians from multiple bands
Finally when namedropping “Reach Out” by Cheap Trick it is important not to forget who else contributed t this anthem – People deal so often associate just legends of Cheap Trick left out is Carmen Appice brings drums & percussion after performing with Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart and others—“Reach Out” hops aboard a moving train of musical talent propelled forward by each member’s individual prowess . Kicking off Cheap Trick section on Heavy Metal Soundtrack will be kicking off your weekend!
Analyzing Each Track on Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs
Heavy metal music, with its thunderous drums, face-melting guitar solos and guttural vocals, has always been a staple of the rock genre. So it’s no surprise that the Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs album is a tribute to this not-so-subtle form of musical expression.
Released in 1981 as the soundtrack for the animated cult classic film “Heavy Metal,” this album features songs from some of the biggest names in heavy metal at the time including Black Sabbath, Blue Oyster Cult and Nazareth. Here’s an analysis of each track on this iconic album:
1. “Heavy Metal” (Sammy Hagar) – This song kicks off the album on an upbeat note with Sammy Hagar’s vocally-driven rock anthem about being invincible amidst chaos. The perfect track to set a tone for the soundtrack and movie itself.
2. “Heartbeat” (Riggs) – With haunting opening bars followed by powerful guitar licks, Riggs’ “Heartbeat” is easily one of the best tracks on this album. Combining gritty lyrics with high-pitched screams and an almost Ozzy Osbourne-like vocal delivery sets them apart from anything else on this record.
3. “Working in the Coal Mine” (Devo) – Devo’s synth-pop take on Lee Dorsey’s classic tune might be considered odd to be included in a heavy metal compilation but it works perfectly in showing diversity within genres represented by different bands.
4. “Veteran of The Psychic Wars” (Blue Öyster Cult) – Blue Öyster Cult takes us into their imaginary world with “Veteran Of The Psychic Wars,” creating a soundscape which highlights Eric Bloom’s distinct vocal style accompanied by Buck Dharma’s impressive guitar riffs unique to BOC music till date.
5. “Reach Out” (Cheap Trick) – Cheap Trick’s infectious melodies are their trademark, and “Reach Out” is no exception. Robin Zander’s vocals are smooth while Rick Nielsen’s guitar licks offer complexity that satisfies the metal head in all of us.
6. “Heavy Metal (Takin’ a Ride)” (Don Felder) – “Taking a ride” truly sums up the album and the film it was written for- fast-paced adrenaline-pumping escapade! With its electrifying riff– Don Felder’s track adds another feather to this wild ride!
7. “True Companion” (Donald Fagen) – This appears more like a change of pace at first glance with Donald Fagen’s ballad-esque tune but hearing his masterful work with chords, embellishments, and mood-setting phrases- provides an excellent break from the previous tracks on this list.
8. “Crazy (A Suitable Case for Treatment)” (Nazareth) – Scottish glam rockers Nazareth bring their own unique style to the album with Crazy featuring nasal, almost whiny voice set against some brilliantly executed guitar riffs which typify what Nazareth represents – melodic rock brilliance.
9. “Radar Rider” (Riggs) – Back on Riggs land again; Radar rider takes you on a sonic journey through a strange dystopian landscape where you can feel yourself speeding away from danger yet being tracked by something ominous-an ultimate nostalgic track representing Heavy Metal universe well.
10. “Open Arms” (Journey) – Journey’s classic hit ‘Open Arms’ showcases Steve Perry’s soulful voice against assertive power chords playing in the background in perfect equation between hard-rocking instrumentals and sentimental lyrics making it that chart-topping song we enjoy revisiting time and again.
11. “Queen Bee” (Grand Funk Railroad) – If there were ever an anthem for taking life by horns as it nears its end stage; Queen Bee would be it! Grand Funk Railroad gave us a hard-rock anthem that hits us straight in the face with powerful lyrics matched by muscular instrumental prowess
12. “I Must Be Dreamin'” (Cheap Trick) – Closing out the album is yet another song of Cheap Trick, whose dreamy melody mixed with a slight edge in the vocals comes as a soft landing from this wild ride combining all flavors of Heavy Metal music on one plate.
In conclusion, Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs is a classic soundtrack album that pays homage to the genre we all love. With its explosive opening and diverse tracks showcasing different styles within heavy metal, it stands testament to why this style of music continues to inspire and unite fans worldwide.
Legacy and Impact of Various Artists Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture Songs on Heavy Metal Culture
Heavy metal is a genre of music that has been popular since the late 1960s and early 1970s, and it has had a significant impact on popular culture around the world. It’s not just about the music; Heavy metal also embodies an entire subculture with its own fashion, lifestyle, and worldview.
One of the most significant contributions to heavy metal culture is the movie Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture. This animated feature premiered in 1981 and features stories based on various short stories published in Heavy Metal magazine. The movie’s soundtrack included songs from some of the most prominent heavy metal acts of that era.
The impact of this movie still reverberates today in different aspects of pop culture. We cannot underestimate how crucial it was to turn people’s heads toward the heavy metal genre back then. The artists who wrote those songs went from being part of an underground movement to making an impact in mainstream media.
But besides its influence on pop culture as a whole, Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture marked a significant shift in terms of what we think about when we say “heavy metal music” related to visual arts.
The animation style used for each vignette allowed for pure creativity to take hold without many limits stablished by physical bodies or real-life scenes. And yet, due to their eeriness or idiosyncrasy precisely prohibited by traditional cinema, they echoed perfectly among headbanging audiences looking for new realms within themselves beyond standard storytelling structures.
Moreover, while most great movies have influential soundtracks, few have them as undeniably integral components like Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture does. Some bands even managed here to reach immortality through their songs featured in this classic animated film!
For instance -who can forget- Black Sabbath’s “E5150” heralding Den atelier’s worldwide dark magic that made every person shiver with anticipation? Or Sammy Hagar’s cheekier “Heavy Metal” making everyone feel like they could take on the world when another Monday morning rolled around?
And then again, where would we be without Nazareth’s brooding anthems -“Crazy (A Suitable Case for Treatment)” and “Love Hurts”- helping us get over that intense heartbreak or self-pity that would eventually lead to a breakthrough? Or maybe even the iconic theme song by Don Felder, who alongside Stevie Nicks’ “Blue Lamp” allowed viewers to settle into this awesome metal-centric cinematic experience.
In conclusion, the legacy left behind Heavy Metal: Music from the Motion Picture may be more significant than just serving as a nostalgic reminder of our youth. It helped shape an entire culture that still lives and breathes today. From music and fashion to cinema and art – heavy metal has infiltrated it all! And we are forever grateful to those musicians and filmmakers whose contribution kickstarted this rebellious movement represented in this legendary movie for all eternity.