It’s music Monday! At least, that’s the goal I’m working toward: a new playlist every Monday. This week, given that we just got a trailer for the much anticipated movie coming out next year, my playlist is dedicated to Wade Watts. Get prepared for lots of 80s music!
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!
We begin Wade’s obsession with the 80s with an upbeat song, to match his optimism (kind of) at the beginning of the novel.
“Dancing With Myself” by Billy Idol
Though often used in reference to James Halliday, this song also fits Wade’s predicament. And pretty much the rest of society in this time period, as everyone sits in their house playing Oasis.
“Star Wars Theme” by John Williams
There can’t be a bunch of 80s references without referencing Star Wars, am I right?
“Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo
James Halliday opens his last will and testament video with this song, which could be considered Wade’s introduction to the 80s. And the rest of the future’s obsession with the 80s.
“Wild Boys” by Duran Duran
With no parents, and growing up in virtual reality, I think this describes Wade’s situation quite well.
“Star Trek Theme” by Alexander Courage
Wade has a particular connection to Star Trek within the book, the original series of course. Though, all of his obsessions pretty much come from the 80s due to James Halliday.
“Ladyhawke Main Theme” by Andrew Powell
In addition to being one of Wade’s favorite movies, this is also an important clue to figuring out one of the keys in the novel.
“Three is a Magic Number” by Schoolhouse Rock
An important clue in Wade figuring out how to get to the last key, and eventually figuring out James Halliday’s whole scavenger hunt.
“Monty Python and the Holy Grail Ending Music”
Another one of Wade’s favorite movies, again due to James Halliday’s influence.
“Invincible” by Pat Benatar
By the end of the book, Wade feels pretty invincible and able to take on anything in the Oasis. And in real life, too.