Movie soundtracks are very different now than they were even ten years ago. Nowadays soundtracks just collect existing songs that fit into the film. Back in the day people actually wrote music specifically for a movie. Like these songs.

Mickey Dolenz “Talk To The Animals” (From Dr. Dolittle)
It can’t be easy being an ex-Monkee. You have to find something to do with yourself between reunion tours. Mr. Dolenz really should have cultivated some other hobby. Any other hobby.

You’d never know it from this version but the song won an Oscar for Best Original Song.

Jon Langford “The Perfect Nanny” (From Mary Poppins)
You may know Mr. Langford from his work with the Mekons, the Waco Brothers, or the Pine Valley Cosmonauts. You might know him from his work to help eliminate the death penalty. You might know him as a nationally-renowned artist. In addition to all that Mr. Langford managed to record this little two-step for the NPR radio show This American Life.

The International Karate Plus “Grease (Reprise)” (From Grease)
I know what you’re thinking. Grease was a Broadway musical. This tune was written by Barry Gibb specifically for the movie version.

Moby “James Bond Theme” (from Dr. No)
Update: Alert reader Amy pointed out that Moby changed the time signature on this song from 3/4 to 4/4. That sort of thing is pretty unusual outside of the world of jazz.

A little disco for my taste but a pretty thorough updating of the well-worn song.

Ronnie Ong “Buttons and Bows” (from The Paleface)
Another Best Original Song Oscar. Great fuzz guitar.