Vacations are synonymous with freedom, adventure, and unforgettable memories. And what better way to amplify those feelings than with the perfect soundtrack? Just like a great road trip needs a killer playlist, a cinematic vacation needs music that captures the spirit of the journey. The 1985 comedy classic National Lampoon’s European Vacation understood this perfectly, delivering a soundtrack that’s as hilarious and memorable as the Griswold family’s chaotic European adventure.
This article dives into the Vacation Songs that make the European Vacation soundtrack so iconic, exploring why these tunes are the perfect accompaniment to any getaway, whether you’re actually heading to Europe or just dreaming of escape. We’ll explore the key tracks, the artists behind them, and why they resonate as quintessential vacation anthems.
Setting the Scene: European Vacation and its Hilarious Chaos
For those unfamiliar, European Vacation, penned by the legendary John Hughes and directed by Amy Heckerling, throws the lovable but disaster-prone Griswold family into a whirlwind tour of Europe. Clark Griswold, Ellen, and their kids Rusty and Audrey, embark on a trip won on a game show, and hilarity, naturally, ensues. From driving on the wrong side of the road in London to accidentally blowing up Stonehenge, their vacation is a masterclass in what not to do on holiday.
But amidst the chaos, the movie captures the universal desire for a memorable vacation, and the soundtrack plays a crucial role in setting this tone. It’s a blend of upbeat pop, quirky new wave, and even some unexpected musical detours, mirroring the unpredictable nature of the Griswold’s trip.
The Soundtrack as Your Vacation Playlist
The European Vacation soundtrack isn’t just background music; it’s a curated collection of vacation songs that enhance the film’s comedic and adventurous spirit. It’s a short but incredibly effective compilation, kicking off with the ultimate vacation anthem, “Holiday Road.”
“Holiday Road”: The Quintessential Vacation Anthem
Lindsey Buckingham’s “Holiday Road” is practically the definition of a vacation song. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and lyrics about hitting the road make it instantly infectious. Originally featured in the first Vacation movie, it returns in European Vacation as the Griswold family’s theme song, instantly setting the tone for their disastrous trip. Buckingham’s performance of this song, complete with the iconic dog barks, became a highlight of his live shows, proving its enduring popularity and status as a true vacation classic.
Beyond “Holiday Road”: Exploring the Soundtrack’s Gems
While “Holiday Road” is the undisputed star, the European Vacation soundtrack is packed with other gems that perfectly capture different facets of the vacation experience:
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“Some Like It Hot” by The Power Station: This high-energy track injects pure 80s rock flair into the soundtrack. Its driving beat and catchy chorus are perfect for scenes of excitement and fast-paced travel, reflecting the Griswolds’ often frantic journey across Europe.
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“Ca Plane Pour Moi” by Plastic Bertrand: This frantic, new wave tune adds a quirky and slightly chaotic energy, mirroring the Griswold’s often bewildering experiences in foreign lands. Its French lyrics and upbeat tempo create a sense of playful disorientation, perfect for the comedic mishaps of the film.
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“Problèmes d’Amour” by Alexander Robotnick: This excellent dance track brings a cool, European vibe to the soundtrack. Its synth-heavy sound and driving rhythm evoke a sense of adventure and exploring new and exciting places, even if those places are just as confusing for the Griswolds as they are glamorous.
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“New Looks” by Dr. John: Dr. John’s contribution is a unique and unexpected track. Its distinctive sound adds a touch of musical eccentricity to the soundtrack, much like the bizarre situations the Griswolds find themselves in.
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“A Town Called Malice” by The Jam: This British Invasion-inspired track offers a taste of UK culture, fitting perfectly with the England leg of the Griswold’s vacation. Its energetic rhythm and social commentary add a layer of depth to the soundtrack’s overall vibe.
Why These Songs Capture the Vacation Spirit?
The genius of the European Vacation soundtrack lies in its ability to blend recognizable hits with slightly more obscure but perfectly fitting tracks. It creates a musical landscape that is both familiar and surprising, just like a vacation itself. The songs share common threads that make them ideal vacation companions:
- Upbeat Tempo and Energy: Many tracks are high-energy and fast-paced, reflecting the excitement and movement associated with travel.
- Catchy Melodies: Memorable tunes that stick in your head are perfect for singalongs on road trips or while exploring new places.
- Sense of Adventure and Fun: The songs evoke feelings of freedom, exploration, and lightheartedness, aligning perfectly with the vacation mindset.
- Nostalgia and Timelessness: Many of these songs have an 80s vibe, tapping into a sense of nostalgia for a classic era of vacation comedies, yet their themes of travel and escape remain timeless.
In conclusion, the European Vacation soundtrack is more than just a collection of songs from a movie. It’s a carefully curated playlist of vacation songs that perfectly encapsulates the humor, adventure, and spirit of taking a break from the everyday. Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply need a musical escape, this soundtrack is a guaranteed way to inject some vacation vibes into your life. So, crank up “Holiday Road” and let the European Vacation soundtrack be the starting point for your own musical journey!
