Movies With Awesome Soundtracks: Almost Famous

The semi-autobiographic film about traveling with rock stars

Penny Lane and the lovestruck William. Dreamworks Pictures

The 2000 film Almost Famous is the story of a young man who loves rock music. The film is semi-autobiographical, based on Cameron Crowe's own experience as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone.

William (Patrick Fugit) is introduced to rock music by his older sister Anita (Zooey Deschanel) before she leaves home to become a flight attendant and escape thier overprotective mother (Frances McDormand). He aspires to write for Rolling Stone magazine and actually lands a gig writing a piece about the band Stillwater. The only problem? Unbeknownst to the magazine, William Miller is only 15.

Still, William will be able to make his way to meet the band and join them on tour. The film takes place in the 1970s, so it's not like they could search him up on the internet to find out he's lying. On the way, he becomes lovestuck with groupie Penny Lane (Kate Hudson). However, Penny is in a relationship with a guitarist (and William's hero), Russell Hammond (Billy Crudup). It gets complicated as William learns it is not always a good idea to meet your heroes.

The film also features an awesome soundtrack. It features a blend of classic 1970s rock music and original songs by the fictional band, Stillwater. The soundtrack was put together with contributions from rock legends Nancy Wilson and Peter Frampton, so you know it is great.

So here is the latest entry of Movies with Awesome Soundtracks: Almost Famous. It should also be noted that these are not all songs from the official soundtrack. Instead, I am covering songs that appear in the film that stand out or are important to certain scenes.

Brenton Wood — The Oogum Boogum Song

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Okay, so the movie opens with the Chipmunks' Christmas Song, but I'm going with the first fun song in the movie. We establish that William is a young boy living in San Diego with an overbearing college professor mother and an older sister, Anita, who is in constant conflict with her.

The Oogum Boogum Song kicks in as young William is in his high school locker room. At the same time, his classmates are obviously growing facial hair. On the car ride home, he discovers he is not thirteen as he originally thought, but eleven, because his mother skipped several grades.

Brenton Woods' song is great. With its nonsense-word title, the song has a classic Motown vibe that helps set its tone. It's a great start for a great film.

Simon & Garfunkel — America

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Next up is Simon & Garfunkel's America. Anita plays this song for her mother to explain why she is leaving home. The mother groans, "Do we have to listen to rock music?" And then this song plays.

Now, I have nothing against Simon & Garfunkel. Thier music is perfectly fine. The comedy of this scene lies in the mother's cluelessness about the popular music of the time. No one would ever accuse the duo of being "rockers."

The song tells the story of a pair of lovers hitchhiking across America. It is both a literal and metaphorical story about going out and finding yourself. It is a very nice ballad that helps Anita express her need to break free and see the world.

The Who — Amazing Journey/Sparks

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After Anita leaves, she tells William she left a gift for him under his bed. It is a box of vinyl records, with her suggestion of listening to The Who's Tommy. This serves as the transition to the now fifteen-year-old William, in his senior year of high school, who is obsessed with rock music and aspires to be a music writer.

The Who classic is a great transition song for the film. It features a classic rock riff and introduces a fictionalized version of rock writer Lester Bangs (Philip Seymour Hoffman), who serves as William's mentor.

Todd Rundgren- It Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference

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After running into Lester Bangs doing a radio interview, William meets the legendary writer. It is revealed that William had been sending articles from his school newspaper to Lester, who likes his writing style.

Later at a diner, the pair talks about music and the pitfalls of being a music writer. Rundgren's song plays in the background as Lester warns William about making friends with the musicians, almost as if trying to talk him out of chasing his dream.

However, Lester realizes he can't talk William out of it and gives him an assignment to write an article about an upcoming Black Sabbath show. The song, in a way, points out that even with Lester's urging, he can't change that William will follow his destiny.

Yes — I See All Good People

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At this point in the film, William meets Penny Lane and her gaggle of band dates (their term for groupies). He is kept from accessing the backstage area to interview Black Sabbath, which Penny promises to fix if she can. He then meets the opening act, Stillwater. At first, they dismiss him as "the enemy," i.e., a rock journalist. He impresses the group with his praise, and they get him backstage.

This song plays as the road crew sets up, and William starts talking with Stillwater. Lead singer Jeff Bebe (Jason Lee) begins talking about his rockstar philosophy.

This is probably one of Yes's most well-known songs. It is a classic slow rock song, but it is fun to listen to when relaxing or driving in your car. Though you only hear a snippet of it, it is a nice touch.

The Beach Boys — Feel Flows

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This Beach Boys classic follows in the same scene, as William gets to know the band a little better. He also runs into Penny Lane again, who gives him a backstage pass, which he does not end up needing—the pair chat for a little while, with William revealing his real age to Penny.

Russell then approaches, and William introduces him to Penny. It is obvious to the audience that the pair know each other, but it takes William a bit to pick up on it.

Feel Flows is one of the later Beach Boys songs. At this point, they were past their "surf rock" days and instead were singing about more serious concepts. Brian Wilson composed the song as an almost bittersweet reflection on a band that had remained timeless. It fits as a song from a band that has seen its rise to greatness, playing as we are introduced to a band trying to make it big.

Stillwater — Fever Dog

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This is the first track from the fictional band, Stillwater. They take the stage as Penny and William stand offstage. We also see Penny teaching William a lesson about enjoying the music. He begins to take notes, and she takes the pen from his hand, shaking her head. The pair then smiles and watches the show side by side. After the show, Russell invites William to join them in Los Angeles to continue their interview (and to bring Penny along).

The song, written by Frampton and Wilson, features several session musicians. It has the feel of a classic hard rock song, and the works show that Stillwater could have been an up-and-coming band back in the 1970s.

This song also helps to set the scene for the rest of the film. William, having gotten to hang out with the band and been treated kindly by everyone, is invited to spend more time with them. He will eventually join them on their tour, and forget about Lester's advice.

Rod Stewart — Every Picture Tells a Story

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William and Penny travel to Los Angeles to meet up with the band. On the car ride to the hotel party, Penny and William further bond over music. She then reveals that she knows Russell very well, but acknowledges that he has a partner back home.

The party is at the famous Riot House, known for housing touring rock bands. William walks around, meeting other fans and musicians. William becomes more enthralled with both the band and Penny.

Every Picture Tells a Story is classic Stewart. It tells the story of a young man traveling the world, leaving a trail of broken hearts in his wake. In the end, the young man learns a valuable lesson and changes his heart. It works in several ways in this scene, as William sees that the rock star life and relationships are complicated.

Thunderclap Newman — Something in the Air

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As Penny enters the living room during the party scene, the band and guests begin an impromptu rendition of the Thunderclap Newman song. It's a fun, slower rock song that expresses the good-time atmosphere of the time.

During the party, William learns that he was there as an excuse for Penny to attend, to lower suspicion that she was there for Russell. William looks on as Russell and Penny steal glances at each other, and their relationship becomes more apparent.

The Seeds — Mr. Farmer

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Following his adventures in Los Angeles, William is contacted by Rolling Stone magazine. They came across an article he wrote about shows in San Diego. The magazine offers to pay him to join Stillwater on tour and write an article. Of course, the magazine has no idea that he is still a teenager. Still, William accepts their offer.

A shocked William reaches out to his mentor, Lester. The veteran journalist warns him about how a magazine will edit his work and that the bands will want to change stories to make them look good. Still, William is insistent. At the end, Lester encourages him, as it will be a good experience for him.

As the duo discusses the idea, Lester plays this track from the Seeds. I'll be honest, I've never heard of this band or this track. Which, from a guy like Lester who loved lesser-known bands, makes perfect sense.

It has a cool garage-rock sound that, again, fits Lester's gritty taste—another fun fact: the song was controversial at the time from some not-so-vailed references to marijuana.

The Allman Brothers Band — One Way Out

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After promising his mother he wouldn't miss any tests and still graduate (spoiler: he will miss all his tests), William is allowed to join the band on their tour. This Allman Brothers classic plays as the group boards the "Almost Famous Tour" bus.

We see the group hanging out and jamming as the bus heads down the road—they bond as William tries to get an interview with Russell. The guitarist keeps pushing it off, promising to do it later.

One Way Out is one of the Allman Brothers' most well-known songs. A fun jam track, it includes the guitar playing of the late Duane Allman. It is a fitting track as the band sets out to reach stardom.

Lynard Skynard — Simple Man

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The band reaches their first hotel, and William already has a note from his mom. She later calls him and has an interesting conversation with groupie, Sapphire (who is probably one of the best supporting characters, played by Farunza Balk).

That evening, the group hung out by the pool. William again attempts to interview Russell, who only speaks to him off the record. Russell asks William to make the band look cool. Russell explains to William that some of the guys have wives and girlfriends back home, and that not everyone needs to know what goes on behind the scenes. Russell and William begin to bond and become friends.

Simple Man is a classic song by Lynyrd Skynyrd about a mother giving her son life advice. She warns him not to be too ambitious and to live a simple life, saying he will be happy. It works as a nice juxtaposition to the conversation between William and Russell, who are both seeking fame in their own way.

Led Zeppelin — That's The Way

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During a set, Russell is shocked by a poorly grounded microphone. When a crooked promoter refuses to let the band leave without finishing their set, the bus rams the gate as this Led Zeppelin track kicks on. It then continues as the bus continues down a calm stretch of highway, while Penny and William discuss a dream trip to Morocco.

"That's The Way" is one of the band's slower tunes. It is a calm, reflective tune that fits well with the scene. The band rests as William and Penny talk about each other, the band, and Russell. It also cuts to a montage of the band on the road.

This track is also unique in that Led Zeppelin is very picky about letting films use their music. However, the fact that the band let director Cameron Crowe use "Kashmir "In his film Fast Times at Ridgemont High may have helped in solidifying the track.

Elton John — Tiny Dancer

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This song is featured in probably the most memorable scenes in the film, so instead of an official music video, I included the clip above. After a fight between Jeff and Russell, William accompanies Russell to a house party with some fans. Russell gets high and jumps off a roof into a pool (after declaring himself a "Golden God"). The next morning, the band collects Russell and William and gets back on the bus. The band rides in silence until this track plays. One by one, the members begin singing together, and all is well.

"Tiny Dancer" is one of Elton John's greatest hits. The song was written by his friend Bernie Taupin about his wife, Maxine Feibleman, who was really John's seamstress. It's a sweet little piano ballad that, once you hear it, you are almost required by law to sing along to the chorus.

It's a fun song and helps to ease the tension from the previous scene. A band that could have been on the verge of breaking up comes back together over what bonded them in the first place: great music.

Nancy Wilson — Lucky Trumble

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Nancy Wilson's music pops up a few times in this film, which makes sense since she helped score it. Lucky Trumble is a fun, slow guitar tune that captures the innocence in William that is about to change.

In one of the hotels, three of the groupies decide it is time for William to lose his virginity. At first, William seems a bit terrified, then holds a staring contest with Penny as the girls dance around him. A smile crept across William's face, and the audience was left to assume that William had a very fun night.

David Bowie — I'm Waiting for the Man

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As the band arrives in Cleveland, they are swarmed by fans. William takes a moment to call his mom. She is angry at him for missing school, and Russell instead grabs the phone to try to smooth things over. She cuts him off, tells him to take care of her son, and then says that Russell is capable of greatness. Her words take him aback, and she later tells William, "Your mom really freaked me out."

The band, like many songs at the time, referenced drug culture in the 1970s. The song, written by Lou Reed and sung by Bowie, talks about a man trying to meet his heroin dealer in Harlem.

Cat Stevens — The Wind

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"The Wind" is a very short ballad by Cat Stevens. The song talks about being a wandering soul, being at peace with the world, and letting life take you where it will.

The song is featured in a short scene. After the Cleveland scene, the band is talked into leaving the bus behind for a private jet, and Penny dances alone in the empty hall for the show. It's a nice, small scene that shows that, despite her worldly lifestyle, Penny still has innocence.

Jimi Hendrix — Voodoo Child

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The film only features the opening riff of this Hendrix classic, but I got to include it. It is one of the greatest classic guitar riffs of all time, played by one of the greatest ever.

The riff is played as the band walks away from their old faithful tour bus to board their private jet. William looks back at the vehicle with a hint of sadness as the group boards the plane to continue the tour.

Clarence Carter — Slip Away

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A major turning point in the film occurs during the "manager's poker game." Clarence Carter, known for his R&B and soul music, had a hit with "Slip Away." The song tells the story of a man who is making the wrong decisions and prays to God to do better.

In the scene in question, the band's manager, Dick Rosewell (Noah Taylor), is playing cards with the managers of some bands they are performing with. William, still desperate to get an interview with Russell, sits in. At one point, Dick puts in a side bet, he offers Penny and the other band dates for $50 and a case of Henieken to the manager of Humble Pie. This is also a ploy to ensure Penny is not with the band in New York (since Russell's girlfriend will be there).

Russell takes William aside to explain the situation. William then gets into an argument with Penny, where he reveals that she was traded to Humble Pie. He tries to explain to her that Russell does not want her there and calls Penny out for living in a fantasy land. She tears up, but then laughs it off, asking what kind of beer they got in the deal.

Led Zeppelin — Misty Mountain Hop

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The band and William arrive in New York as this Zeppelin track plays in the background. Another rolling song that sets the scene’s good-time feel. I guess the guys in Led Zeppelin really like Crow's work.

William rides along with the band as they talk about finally getting to New York. Russell comments, "We showed you America. And tried everything we could do to get you laid."

William then shrugs and gives the guys a look. It dawns on the group that both missions were accomplished as they all share in a good laugh. It's a nice moment before some of the drama comes.

The song continues as the band arrives at their hotel and meets with Leslie (Liz Stauber), Russell's girlfriend. We also learn that Penny has come to New York against William's warning.

Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show — Cover of the Rolling Stone

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Probably the band's best-known hit, "Cover of the Rolling Stone," tells the story of a rock band dreaming of being on the cover of the famous magazine. A fun song that talks about how great the band is and the lifestyle they live, but the greatest thrill is being on the cover of Rolling Stone.

When William informs the band at dinner that they will be a cover story, the band breaks into an a cappella version of the song. It's a joyful scene at first, until Penny shows up in the background, trying to catch Russell's eye. Liz notices, and the other band members try to cover it up, saying that Penny is with them.

Dick approaches Penny and informs her that she has to leave. William looks on as a sad and hurt Penny leaves the restaurant.

Elton John — Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters

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William leaves the restaurant in search of Penny. This Elton John track plays in the background. The song was inspired by songwriter Brian Taupin's first trip to New York and by hearing a gunshot outside his hotel. It talks about his love for people, but also a desire to be alone. It's another touching piano ballad by one of the best.

He finds her at her hotel, where she has taken pills and has been drinking. All the other band dates have left, and she begins a slurry goodbye to William. He calls the hotel doctor, as the film also cuts to William missing his high school graduation. William takes the moment to proclaim his love for her and share his first and only kiss with Penny before she passes out.

While a serious scene, the fact that the Crow then chooses to have Ed Blair's "Day Dreaming" play as Penny gets her stomach pumped almost gives it a comedic turn. Maybe he felt it was needed to lighten the mood.

The film then cuts to Penny and William walking in Central Park, where they have their first real conversation. She also reveals her real name: Lady Goodman. Nancy Wilson's "Cabin in the Air" played as Penny takes a plane home, and she sees William waving goodbye to her from the airport.

Neil Young and Crazy Horse — Cortez the Killer

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This slowed-down Neil Young song plays as William and Stillwater land in Tupula after almost dying in a storm. The band went around telling secrets and airing some final grievances before the weather cleared.

As the band heads to their next gate, William stops and tells Russell he needs to go home. Russell tells William to write what he wants before the two part ways. William meets with Rolling Stone, where they discover he is a kid and give him the night to finish writing his article.

William, feeling lost and confused, once again turns to Lester. The elder writer gives his protege some comfort and some final advice. He tells William to be unmercifully honest with his article. Unfortunately, the band later denies everything.

Led Zeppelin — The Rain Song

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After Rolling Stone rejects William, he meets his sister at the airport on his way home. This leads to a family reunion between Anita and her mother. William collapsed, exhausted, in his bed.

The scene then cuts to backstage at a Sillwater show as this Zeppelin hit plays softly in the background. Sapphire sits with Russell, discussing William, Penny, and their shared love of music. Russell then calls Penny and asks her to meet him.

Penny then gives Russell an address. However, Russell and the audience soon learn that she has given him William's address. Russell meets with William, apologizes to him, explains that they told Rolling Stone the truth, and finally grants him the interview he had blown off.

Led Zeppelin — Tangerine

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The film ends with a montage of clips with William and his reunited family, Stillwater on tour with their bus, and Penny finally taking her trip to Morocco.

Crow managed to secure the budget for one final Zeppelin song. A great, melancholy tune, it is one of my personal favorites. The song also plays during the closing credits and includes a montage of polaroids of the cast, providing the vibe of a band on the road, making memories.

Closing

Almost Famous is one of those movies I can watch over and over again. My wife calls it one of her "desert island" movies. The cast and story are great. And of course, it has a soundtrack that rocks.