Exactly nine years ago, on May 7th, 2010, Marvel’s Iron Man 2 soared into theaters, bringing audiences more of Tony Stark’s high-flying adventures and rock-infused persona. While the film is packed with action and iconic moments, one scene stands out for its heartfelt tribute and electrifying music: the cameo of the legendary DJ AM. This wasn’t just another needle drop; it was a carefully curated moment, deeply personal to the cast and crew, and a lasting homage to a beloved figure in music and culture, making it more impactful than simply an “I Am Iron Man Song.”
Directed by Jon Favreau, Iron Man 2 continued to solidify the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s blend of superhero action with a cool, contemporary soundtrack. The film featured a memorable party scene at Tony Stark’s mansion, and at the turntables was none other than Adam Goldstein, known to the world as DJ AM. Tragically, Adam had passed away a few months prior to the film’s release, making his appearance even more poignant. The movie was dedicated to his memory, a testament to the profound effect he had on those around him.
Kevin Scott, a close friend of DJ AM, was brought in by Favreau to ensure Adam’s scene was not only included in the final cut but also honored his musical legacy authentically. Favreau shared with Scott the significant impact Adam had on both himself and Robert Downey Jr. during filming. However, a crucial element was missing: the music for Adam’s DJ scene. Favreau entrusted Scott with the task of creating a mix that would be a fitting tribute.
Working directly with Jon Favreau at Marvel Studios, Scott was given creative freedom to craft the music for this special scene. He visited the studio multiple times, reviewing rough cuts and participating in production meetings to ensure the music seamlessly integrated with the film’s final mix. Favreau’s openness to collaboration allowed Scott to deeply involve himself in the process, ensuring the scene would be a genuine reflection of DJ AM’s style and taste.
The starting point for the mix was Queen’s iconic track, “Another One Bites the Dust,” a song already cleared for use in the film. This was a significant breakthrough, as it was a song Adam frequently played and provided a foundational BPM range for the rest of the mix. Scott envisioned a dynamic, fast-paced minute-long sequence showcasing DJ AM’s mixing prowess. He decided to blend “Another One Bites the Dust” with Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock’s “It Takes Two,” a track that thematically resonated with the on-screen fight between Iron Man and War Machine and musically complemented Queen’s hit in tempo and energy.
To complete the mix and truly honor Adam’s musical influences, Scott incorporated Daft Punk, Adam’s favorite musical act. “Robot Rock” emerged as the perfect choice. Its tempo aligned with the other tracks, and its robotic theme subtly mirrored the Iron Man suits, while its high-energy vibe amplified the intensity of the battle scene. Music supervisor Dave Jordan successfully navigated the complex and costly process of clearing these tracks, making Scott’s vision a reality.
In the film, DJ AM, referred to as “Goldstein” by Iron Man, is seen DJing at Tony Stark’s party. The scene culminates with the three-song mix Scott created playing as Iron Man and War Machine engage in their now-iconic clash. This moment is more than just background music; it’s an integral part of the narrative, infused with personal significance and musical authenticity.
Photo: Larry Graham captures a moment during the production of Iron Man 2.
Behind-the-scenes footage reveals Adam’s involvement beyond just the cameo. A video shot by Adam on his Blackberry shows the DJ AM and Iron Man stickers being applied to his laptop, while Jon Favreau practices DJing on set. These personal touches emphasize the genuine appreciation and respect for DJ AM’s craft and persona.
Adam’s personal archives contain set photos that offer a glimpse into his time on the Iron Man 2 set, further highlighting his participation and the warm atmosphere of the production.
Kevin Scott’s involvement extended beyond the music mix. He was invited to the Hollywood premiere of Iron Man 2 and even DJed the afterparty, a further testament to the close collaboration and personal connection forged during the film’s production.
Tragically, DJ AM never witnessed the film’s global success, as he passed away in August 2009, months before Iron Man 2‘s release. The film became a box office hit, grossing over $623 million worldwide, but more importantly, it served as a lasting tribute to Adam’s talent and personality.
The inclusion of DJ AM in Iron Man 2 transcends the typical movie cameo. It is a heartfelt dedication, meticulously crafted music scene, and a celebration of a life that touched many. It stands as a powerful reminder of DJ AM’s artistry and the enduring impact he had on both the music world and the people around him, making his appearance in Iron Man 2 a truly unforgettable moment, far beyond just an “I am Iron Man song.”
