Nova Zhang
The soundtrack for *What Men Want* is a vibrant and eclectic mix that complements the film’s comedic and heartfelt moments. Curated to reflect the diverse tastes of its characters and audience, the soundtrack features a blend of contemporary R&B, hip-hop, and pop tracks from both established and emerging artists. Highlights include songs by artists like Ariana Grande, Cardi B, and Khalid, whose music adds energy and emotional depth to the narrative. The soundtrack not only enhances the on-screen experience but also stands on its own as a collection of tracks that resonate with themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and relationships, making it a must-listen for fans of the film and music enthusiasts alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Title | What Men Want (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |
| Release Date | February 8, 2019 |
| Genre | R&B, Hip-Hop, Pop, Soul |
| Label | Milan Records |
| Total Tracks | 13 (varies by edition) |
| Artists Featured | Bryson Tiller, Ty Dolla $ign, DJ Khaled, H.E.R., Chris Brown, and more |
| Producers | Various, including DJ Khaled, London on da Track, and others |
| Notable Tracks | "What Men Want" by Bryson Tiller, "Unlock the Boss" by City Girls |
| Themes | Empowerment, relationships, self-discovery |
| Availability | Streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music), digital download, CD |
| Duration | Approximately 45 minutes (varies by edition) |
| Critical Reception | Generally positive, praised for its diverse lineup and thematic coherence |
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What You'll Learn
- Opening Scene Music: Upbeat tracks setting the tone for the film's comedic and romantic themes
- Romantic Themes: Soft, melodic pieces highlighting emotional connections and relationships in the storyline
- Comedy Tracks: Lighthearted, quirky tunes enhancing humorous moments and character interactions
- Empowerment Anthems: Inspirational songs reflecting the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and growth
- Closing Credits Music: Memorable, feel-good melodies summarizing the film's themes and resolution
Opening Scene Music: Upbeat tracks setting the tone for the film's comedic and romantic themes
The opening scene of a film is a crucial moment to capture the audience's attention and establish the tone for the narrative. In the case of *What Men Want*, the soundtrack plays a pivotal role in setting the stage for the comedic and romantic journey ahead. Upbeat tracks are strategically employed to create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, immediately signaling to viewers that they are in for a light-hearted and entertaining ride.
The Power of Upbeat Tunes: Imagine a bustling cityscape, where our protagonist navigates the chaotic streets with a spring in their step. The opening scene's music mirrors this energy, featuring a fast-paced rhythm and catchy melodies. This musical choice is not arbitrary; it serves as a sonic representation of the film's core themes. Upbeat tracks, often characterized by their lively tempo and positive lyrics, have the unique ability to evoke joy and excitement. In the context of a romantic comedy, this musical genre becomes a powerful tool to foreshadow the light-hearted moments and the potential for love and laughter.
Setting the Comedic Tone: Comedy relies on timing and surprise, and the right music can enhance these elements. Upbeat tracks in the opening scene can include playful instrumentals or humorous lyrics, providing a subtle hint at the comedic twists and turns to come. For instance, a lively jazz number with a swinging rhythm and witty lyrics about the complexities of modern dating could perfectly capture the film's comedic essence. This musical introduction prepares the audience for a journey filled with laughter, ensuring they are receptive to the humor that unfolds.
Romantic Undercurrents: While the comedic aspect is essential, the romantic theme is another critical component of the film's soundtrack. Upbeat music can also convey a sense of romance, especially when combined with specific instruments or vocal styles. A vibrant pop song with a catchy chorus and lyrics about love's excitement might play during a montage of the main character's daily life, subtly introducing the romantic element. This approach allows the audience to anticipate the development of relationships and the emotional highs and lows that come with them.
Practical Application: For filmmakers and music supervisors, selecting the right upbeat tracks involves a careful consideration of tempo, lyrics, and overall vibe. The goal is to find songs that not only match the on-screen action but also enhance the desired emotional response. A well-curated playlist for the opening scene might include a mix of classic feel-good anthems and contemporary hits, ensuring a broad appeal. Additionally, custom-composed music can be tailored to fit the film's unique requirements, allowing for precise control over the tone and theme.
In the realm of romantic comedies, the opening scene's music is a powerful tool to engage and guide the audience. Upbeat tracks, with their infectious energy and thematic versatility, provide an ideal foundation for introducing the comedic and romantic elements of *What Men Want*. By carefully selecting and integrating these musical choices, filmmakers can create an immersive experience, ensuring viewers are eager to embark on the cinematic journey ahead. This strategic use of music demonstrates the art of storytelling through sound, where every note contributes to the overall narrative.
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Romantic Themes: Soft, melodic pieces highlighting emotional connections and relationships in the storyline
The soundtrack of *What Men Want* employs soft, melodic pieces to underscore the emotional connections and relationships that drive the storyline. These compositions serve as a sonic mirror, reflecting the characters’ vulnerabilities, desires, and moments of intimacy. By using gentle instrumentation—such as piano, strings, and acoustic guitar—the music creates a tender atmosphere that amplifies the romantic arcs without overpowering them. For instance, during pivotal scenes of reconciliation or newfound understanding, the score swells subtly, enhancing the emotional weight without resorting to melodrama. This approach ensures the music complements the narrative, allowing the audience to feel the characters’ bonds rather than merely observe them.
To craft similar romantic themes in a soundtrack, focus on simplicity and restraint. Begin with a single melodic line—perhaps a piano motif or a solo violin—that evolves gradually as the relationship on-screen deepens. Layering is key, but avoid overcomposing; each additional element should serve the emotional core. For example, introducing a soft cello line can add warmth, while a light pad of synthesized strings can create a sense of longing. Tempo is equally crucial; slower tempos (60–80 BPM) naturally evoke introspection and tenderness. Experiment with dynamics, allowing the music to ebb and flow in sync with the characters’ emotional journeys.
Comparing *What Men Want*’s romantic themes to those in *La La Land* or *The Notebook* reveals shared techniques but distinct executions. While *La La Land* uses jazz-infused melodies to convey both joy and heartbreak, *What Men Want* leans into contemporary minimalism, prioritizing emotional clarity over stylistic flair. Similarly, *The Notebook*’s sweeping orchestral arrangements emphasize grand, timeless love, whereas *What Men Want* opts for a more intimate, modern sound. This comparison highlights the importance of tailoring the musical style to the story’s tone and era, ensuring the themes resonate authentically with the audience.
Practical tips for integrating romantic themes into a soundtrack include studying the screenplay to identify emotional peaks and valleys. Collaborate closely with the director to align the music with the intended mood, but don’t be afraid to suggest counterintuitive approaches—sometimes a softer touch can heighten tension or a brighter melody can underscore bittersweet moments. Use reference tracks sparingly; instead, let the story itself inspire the composition. Finally, test the music with temp tracks during editing to ensure it enhances, rather than distracts from, the on-screen chemistry. By grounding the score in the narrative, you create a seamless blend of sound and emotion that elevates the romantic elements of the film.
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Comedy Tracks: Lighthearted, quirky tunes enhancing humorous moments and character interactions
Comedy tracks in the *What Men Want* soundtrack serve as the secret sauce, amplifying the film’s humor through lighthearted, quirky tunes that sync perfectly with on-screen antics. These songs aren’t just background noise; they’re active participants in the comedy, using playful rhythms, whimsical instrumentation, and unexpected twists to mirror the characters’ absurdities. For instance, a scene where the protagonist misreads a social cue might pair with a jaunty piano melody that stumbles mid-tune, mimicking her awkwardness. The key here is timing—the music must hit the comedic beats with precision, acting as a comedic sidekick rather than a mere observer.
To craft such tracks, composers often lean on instruments like ukuleles, kazoos, or xylophones, which inherently carry a playful tone. These choices instantly signal to the audience that a humorous moment is unfolding. Layering in unexpected sound effects, like a cartoonish slide whistle or a comically timed drum fill, can further heighten the absurdity. For example, during a slapstick sequence, a bouncy bassline paired with a chaotic brass section can turn physical comedy into a symphony of silliness. The goal is to create a musical environment that feels as unpredictable and lively as the characters themselves.
One practical tip for filmmakers is to treat comedy tracks as dialogue extensions. Just as a well-timed punchline relies on delivery, these tunes should accentuate the rhythm of the scene. A character’s exaggerated reaction might be paired with a sudden tempo shift, or a witty exchange could be underscored by a playful call-and-response melody. This approach ensures the music doesn’t just accompany the humor—it becomes an integral part of it. Think of it as adding a comedic filter to the scene, where every note amplifies the absurdity.
Comparing comedy tracks to their dramatic counterparts highlights their unique role. While dramatic scores often build tension or evoke emotion, comedy tracks aim to disarm and delight. They’re less about depth and more about immediacy, using simplicity and repetition to keep the mood light. For instance, a recurring comedic motif—like a three-note trumpet riff—can become a character in itself, signaling humor whenever it appears. This technique not only enhances individual scenes but also creates a cohesive comedic language throughout the film.
In conclusion, comedy tracks in the *What Men Want* soundtrack are a masterclass in subtlety and timing. By embracing lightheartedness and quirkiness, they transform humorous moments into memorable ones. Whether through instrument choice, rhythmic playfulness, or strategic timing, these tunes prove that music isn’t just a complement to comedy—it’s a co-conspirator in the laughter. For anyone crafting a comedic soundtrack, the lesson is clear: let the music join the joke, and the audience will follow.
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Empowerment Anthems: Inspirational songs reflecting the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and growth
The soundtrack of *What Men Want* isn't just a collection of songs; it's a carefully curated journey mirroring the protagonist's transformation. Empowerment anthems, in particular, serve as sonic milestones, marking her evolution from self-doubt to self-assurance. These tracks aren't merely background noise; they're strategic tools, amplifying the emotional arc and providing a relatable soundtrack for anyone navigating their own path to self-discovery.
Think of them as audible affirmations, each one a step towards embracing authenticity and power.
Consider the strategic placement of a song like Beyoncé's "Run the World (Girls)." Its pulsating beat and assertive lyrics ("Who run the world? Girls!") don't just energize a scene; they symbolize the protagonist's growing confidence and refusal to be defined by societal expectations. This isn't just a catchy tune; it's a declaration of independence, a sonic manifestation of her inner strength emerging. Similarly, a ballad like Alicia Keys' "Girl on Fire" could underscore a moment of vulnerability, its soaring melody mirroring the protagonist's internal struggle and eventual acceptance of her own power.
The soundtrack becomes a character in itself, a chorus of voices cheering her on as she navigates challenges and triumphs.
Not all empowerment anthems need to be overtly aggressive. A song like Andra Day's "Rise Up," with its soulful melody and uplifting message, could provide a moment of quiet reflection, a reminder of resilience during a low point in the protagonist's journey. The key lies in the song's ability to resonate with the character's emotional state at that specific moment, offering a sense of connection and hope. Imagine a scene where our protagonist, feeling lost and overwhelmed, hears the lyrics "You’re broken down and tired / Of fighting on your own / But rise up, rise up" – the song becomes a catalyst for her to regroup and continue her journey.
The soundtrack, therefore, becomes a personalized playlist for growth, each song a carefully chosen companion for the protagonist's (and the listener's) journey.
The beauty of these anthems lies in their universality. While they reflect the protagonist's specific struggles, their themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment transcend the narrative. They become tools for the audience, offering a sense of solidarity and inspiration. Just as the protagonist finds strength in these songs, listeners can draw upon their energy and message, creating a powerful connection between fiction and reality. The *What Men Want* soundtrack, with its carefully selected empowerment anthems, becomes more than just a collection of songs; it becomes a roadmap for anyone seeking their own path to self-discovery and growth.
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Closing Credits Music: Memorable, feel-good melodies summarizing the film's themes and resolution
The closing credits of a film are often the last impression a viewer takes away, and the music that accompanies them can either cement the film's impact or leave it fading into obscurity. In the case of *What Men Want*, the soundtrack's final moments are a masterclass in crafting a memorable, feel-good melody that encapsulates the film’s themes of understanding, connection, and personal growth. The music here isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a deliberate echo of the protagonist’s journey, blending upbeat rhythms with soulful undertones to mirror her transformation from a disconnected workaholic to an empathetic leader. This approach ensures the audience leaves the theater humming, not just because the tune is catchy, but because it resonates with the emotional resolution of the story.
To achieve this effect, composers often employ a few key strategies. First, they revisit motifs introduced earlier in the film, creating a sense of continuity and closure. In *What Men Want*, the closing credits might reintroduce the lighthearted piano riff from the opening scene, now layered with richer instrumentation to signify the character’s newfound depth. Second, the tempo and key signature are crucial. A shift to a major key or an accelerated tempo can signal optimism and resolution, even if the film’s ending is bittersweet. For instance, a feel-good melody in 4/4 time with a prominent bassline can physically engage the listener, making the resolution feel tangible and uplifting.
One practical tip for composers and filmmakers is to test the closing credits music with test audiences to gauge its emotional impact. Does it leave viewers feeling satisfied? Does it align with the film’s tone? For *What Men Want*, a blend of R&B and pop influences could appeal to a broad demographic while staying true to the film’s urban, contemporary setting. Additionally, incorporating lyrics that subtly reference the film’s themes—like lines about "hearing the unspoken" or "finding harmony"—can add an extra layer of depth without being overly on-the-nose.
Comparatively, the closing credits of *What Men Want* stand out when juxtaposed with films that opt for a more somber or ambiguous ending. While a melancholic score might suit a drama, this romantic comedy thrives on leaving its audience with a smile. The key difference lies in the music’s ability to summarize the film’s resolution without oversimplifying it. It’s not just about a happy ending; it’s about a fulfilling one. The melody should feel earned, reflecting the challenges overcome and the lessons learned, much like the protagonist’s journey from misreading minds to truly understanding them.
Ultimately, the closing credits music of *What Men Want* serves as a blueprint for how to end a film on a high note. By combining memorable melodies, thematic callbacks, and a feel-good vibe, it transforms the credits from a passive experience into an active celebration of the story. For anyone working on a soundtrack, the takeaway is clear: the final minutes of your music should be as thoughtfully crafted as the film itself, leaving audiences with a tune—and an emotion—they won’t forget.
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Frequently asked questions
The soundtrack for *What Men Want* was composed by Michael Abels, known for his work on *Get Out* and *Us*.
Yes, the soundtrack includes popular songs from artists like Cardi B, Lil Yachty, and Teyana Taylor, among others.
Yes, the soundtrack is available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
The soundtrack features both original score composed by Michael Abels and a curated selection of popular songs that appear in the film.
