For all that Michael Jordan achieved on a basketball court docket, his signature sneakers are an equally necessary a part of his legacy. And within the new film AIR—which Ben Affleck directs and stars in alongside Matt Damon, Viola Davis, and Jason Bateman—followers can uncover how one of many world’s most legendary footwear got here to be.
But extra than simply exploring the mythology of Air Jordan and his game-changing kicks, the film additionally stands out for its soundtrack. Featuring the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Run-D.M.C., REO Speedwagon, and Chaka Khan, the AIR soundtrack is a continuous parade of iconic ’80s hits.
To have fun AIR’s launch, Ben took the nostalgia a step additional and created a playlist of the ’80s classics that impressed him throughout filming. Jumping from pop to rock to hip-hop (and every part in-between), 1984 consists of tracks from Prince, Dolly Parton, Daryl Hall and John Oates, Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five, Van Halen, Sheila E., and extra.
For the Record had the chance to talk with AIR’s music supervisor, Andrea von Foerster, who gave us the within scoop on how she and Ben helped deliver the film to life by way of its music.
Were there methods you used the soundtrack to reinforce the narrative?
Ben directed an incredible movie that feels authentically ’80s, visually and musically. There was a lot good music from that point, and we used lots of the songs from a story standpoint. Using lyrics that matched what was taking place in sure scenes was an effective way so as to add power and comedy. For instance, Run-D.M.C.’s “My Adidas” performs as Michael Jordan meets with Adidas, and REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling” helps set the tone as Nike CEO Phil Knight goes on a run and decides whether or not or to not make a suggestion to Michael.
Were there any songs that turned a must-include for the soundtrack?
Right at the beginning of the method, Ben despatched me a 1984 playlist as a leaping off level. As we received nearer to the ultimate edit, the tune selections advanced. Sometimes we determined we may beat what we initially had in thoughts, and different instances we would have liked to pivot as a result of budgetary restrictions. “My Adidas” and “Born In The U.S.A.” are mentioned within the movie, so we positively needed to maintain these.
We additionally didn’t have a composer on this movie, so we licensed current scores from different ’80s movies. Seven of these have been from the digital group Tangerine Dream. But then we would have liked to seek out the best music for 2 spots within the movie, so we commissioned Paul Haslinger, a former member of Tangerine Dream, to compose music for these moments.
Andrea von Foerster
Are there any songs on the soundtrack that you simply contemplate deep cuts or forgotten gems?
I believe it is determined by how previous you’re. I’m not that far behind Matt and Ben in age, so we now have the identical consciousness of music. But in case you’re youthful, you won’t know all of the songs. So I believe most individuals will know “Born in the U.S.A.,” however they could not know the Violent Femmes’ “Prove My Love.” Rufus and Chaka Khan’s “Ain’t Nobody” can be an incredible tune that some folks may uncover for the primary time. There was a second when it performed throughout the premiere and everybody within the theater began singing it. It’s such an excellent tune.
If you needed to guess, what would Michael Jordan have had in his Walkman in 1984?
I believe it’s secure to say he was listening to Prince, like all self-respecting human alive at the moment.
And then I’d guess Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Van Halen, Run-D.M.C., Chaka Khan, Michael Jackson, David Bowie, Whodini, Kool & The Gang, Fleetwood Mac, and The Sugarhill Gang.
Check out all of the sights and sounds of 1984 in AIR, taking part in in theaters now. And to find extra classics of the period, try our playlist ’80s Hits.