The 10 Most Overused Song Choices in Movie History

Music can elevate a movie scene, but some songs get used so often they lose their magic, becoming predictable clichés. These tracks, despite their quality, have been leaned on by filmmakers to the point of exhaustion, making audiences roll their eyes instead of feel the moment.
I’ve picked 10 songs that have been overplayed in films. Each entry digs into why these tracks became go-to choices and how their overuse dulled their impact, showing how even great songs can wear out their welcome.
‘Hallelujah’ (1984) – Used in ‘Watchmen’ (2009) and Others
Leonard Cohen’s soulful ‘Hallelujah,’ often via Jeff Buckley’s cover, has been used in countless dramas for instant emotional weight, like during love scenes or tragic moments. Its haunting melody and poetic lyrics make it a shortcut for depth, but it’s now a tired choice in everything from superhero films to rom-coms.
The song’s beauty is undeniable, but its constant use feels lazy. For me, hearing it in yet another poignant scene kills the mood more than lifts it.
‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ (1939) – Used in ‘You’ve Got Mail’ (1998) and Others
Judy Garland’s iconic song from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ pops up in nostalgic or dreamy sequences, evoking hope or innocence. Its gentle melody and wistful lyrics fit coming-of-age tales or bittersweet endings, but it’s been overdone in too many feel-good moments.
The song’s charm is timeless, but its frequent use feels like a crutch. I find it hard to stay moved when it’s the go-to for every uplifting montage.
‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ (1967) – Used in ‘Stepmom’ (1998) and Others
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s upbeat ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ is a staple for scenes of triumph or teamwork, like training montages or romantic reunions. Its catchy energy makes it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s been used so often it feels generic.
The song’s infectious vibe is great, but its overuse flattens its impact. For me, it’s become background noise in too many predictable climaxes.
‘I Will Always Love You’ (1992) – Used in ‘The Bodyguard’ (1992) and Others
Whitney Houston’s powerful cover of Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’ is a go-to for romantic or tearful farewells, amplifying emotional peaks. Its soaring vocals fit love stories or tragic goodbyes, but it’s been recycled in too many melodramas.
Houston’s voice is stunning, but the song’s constant use feels manipulative. I think it’s lost its punch when it’s the default for every big breakup scene.
‘My Heart Will Go On’ (1997) – Used in ‘Titanic’ (1997) and Others
Celine Dion’s ‘My Heart Will Go On’ became synonymous with epic romance after ‘Titanic,’ and filmmakers keep using it for sweeping love stories or tragic endings. Its dramatic melody and heartfelt lyrics scream emotional climax, but it’s now a cliché.
The song’s grandeur fit ‘Titanic’ perfectly, but its overuse elsewhere feels forced. For me, it’s hard to feel moved when it’s shoehorned into every sad moment.
‘Fortunate Son’ (1969) – Used in ‘Forrest Gump’ (1994) and Others
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ‘Fortunate Son’ is a shorthand for Vietnam War-era scenes, blasting during helicopter shots or anti-establishment themes. Its gritty energy captures rebellion or wartime chaos, but it’s been overused in every military montage.
The song’s raw power is awesome, but its constant play feels like a lazy nod to the 60s. I find it repetitive when it’s the default for every war flashback.
‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ (1981) – Used in ‘Rock of Ages’ (2012) and Others
Journey’s ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ is a staple for uplifting finales, like underdog victories or nostalgic sing-along moments. Its anthemic chorus screams hope and perseverance, but it’s been used in too many coming-of-age or sports films to count.
The song’s energy is infectious, but it’s become a predictable trope. I think it’s lost its spark when it’s the go-to for every feel-good ending.
‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (1975) – Used in ‘Wayne’s World’ (1992) and Others
Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is a favorite for comedic or triumphant scenes, like headbanging montages or dramatic reveals, thanks to its theatrical flair. Its iconic status makes it a bold choice, but it’s been overplayed in quirky or nostalgic moments.
The song’s genius is clear, but its frequent use feels like a gimmick now. For me, it’s less thrilling when it’s tossed into every fun car ride or flashback.
‘Gimme Shelter’ (1969) – Used in ‘The Departed’ (2006) and Others
The Rolling Stones’ ‘Gimme Shelter’ is a go-to for gritty crime dramas or war scenes, its dark, driving beat setting a tense tone. It’s perfect for chaos or impending danger, but its constant use in mob films or battle sequences has dulled its edge.
The song’s raw energy is electric, but it’s become too predictable. I find it less impactful when it’s the default for every intense showdown.
‘Sweet Home Alabama’ (1974) – Used in ‘Con Air’ (1997) and Others
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ is a staple for Southern-settled scenes or rowdy celebrations, evoking carefree Americana. Its catchy riff and laid-back vibe fit road trips or bar fights, but it’s been so overused it’s become a stereotype for rural settings.
The song’s fun spirit is great, but its overuse feels lazy. For me, it’s become a tired shorthand for any scene needing a Southern twang.
Which overused movie song makes you cringe, or did I miss a track that’s been done to death? Drop your thoughts in the comments!