By Rylie Lockerman
As the highly anticipated live action Barbie awaits its release to theaters, we fortunately were fed a piece of what the movie experience will be like with the soundtrack. I made no hesitation to dissect and replay the songs.
9 to 5
Dolly Parton
Much like Barbie, Dolly Parton is an insanely successful and talented woman who with no doubt has introduced country music to me as such a deep, uplifting genre. 9 to 5 was the first track of hers that reeled me in and kept me for years to come.
While the movie won’t be released until July 21, I can so vividly envision all of the cinematic and meaningful possibilities that await. Barbie’s original slogan was, “You can be anything”, in order to empower young women to strive for a future where they can accomplish anything. This song discusses the injustices female’s face in the workplace, which I believe is such a great addition to Barbie’s story. It intertwines the two worlds in such a fun, but powerful way.
What Was I Made For?
Billie Eilish
When I heard that Billie Eilish would be having a track on the soundtrack, I counted down the days until the release. Her style has been evolving so much along with her voice maturity, so I was blind going into listening to it.
Of course, it ended up being a beautiful, soft ballad. Besides sounding somewhat familiar to another song, it exceeded my expectations. Because the movie is mostly pop or upbeat music, I think it is important that they have this incredibly emotional song in there. Having said that, the words still connect to Barbie and the need to discover something positive in her life.
Stayin’ Alive
Bee Gees
This song had always appeared to me as a cheesy song that was replayed so much it got painful to hear after a while. When I saw the Bee Gees on the soundtrack, I had a brief moment of excitement hoping it was “More Than a Woman” or “How deep is your love”. However as I took a closer look at the lyrics, I found much more appreciation for it and its connection to Barbie.
In Barbie, everything is fast paced and upbeat, almost like a never ending dance. “Stayin’ Alive” uncovers the truth of making it through your journey and how it is one that never ends, so the best thing to do is to keep dancing through it. As a brand that promotes positivity in a way, this song is perfect for bringing the energy the movie needs, while keeping a purposeful meaning.
Dance The Night
Dua Lipa
Climbing out of the deeper subjects, “Dance the Night” is simply a fun, disco-pop song. I think there is always a need for a purely joyful song in a film like Barbie. I can visualize this song being the opening or ending credit that ties the whole show together. It’s a perfect song that captures the Barbie vibe.
