Number 12 cranks up the synths with Beverly Hills Cop (1984). This one wasn’t just a movie we watched — it was a whole event. We saw it twice at the drive-in, twice at the theater, and of course, we had it on VHS for repeat viewing at home. Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley was larger than life, and somehow it never got old watching him outwit everyone in sight.
The soundtrack was just as unforgettable. I actually got it as a birthday or Christmas present, which made it feel extra special — like owning a piece of the movie. It’s packed with hits — Glenn Frey’s The Heat Is On, the Pointer Sisters’ Neutron Dance, Patti LaBelle’s Stir It Up — but nothing tops Harold Faltermeyer’s Axel F. Not only did it become one of the most iconic themes of the ’80s, it’s also the only instrumental to make this countdown.
This wasn’t just a soundtrack; it was the sound of mischief, chaos, and style — Axel Foley style.
I’ll be linking to each soundtrack’s Wikipedia page if you want to dig deeper, rediscover the track listings, or argue with your own memory of what played during that prom scene.
And don’t worry — this won’t be the last time we visit movie soundtracks. 🎶
12. Beverly Hills Cop (1984):
The Trailer:
My soundtrack picks:
Patti LaBelle – New Attitude (Official Music Video):
The Pointer Sisters – Neutron Dance:
Glenn Frey – The Heat Is On (From “Beverly Hills Cop” Soundtrack):
The System – Rock ‘n’ roll me again (1984)
Beverly Hills Cop • Axel F • Harold Faltermeyer:
This is an open thread
