‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Soundtrack: Why Peter Quill’s Mom Loved ’70s Hits
The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack features an “Awesome Mix” picked by Peter Quill/Starlord’s mother, Meredith Quill. According to director James Gunn, Meredith was a music lover, which became an important storytelling element for the Marvel film. And there was a reason she gravitated toward hits of the 1970s.
The ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ soundtrack is titled ‘Awesome Mix’
They’re more than just a bunch of a-holes. Aside from saving the galaxy (more than once, they might add), these superheroes love music.
Whether he’s being romantic toward Gamora with Elvin Bishop’s “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” or reminiscing about his mother with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, Peter Quill is always playing his favorite hits for his friends.
These songs help to tell the story in Guardians of the Galaxy. They also explain part of Peter Quill’s upbringing and relationship with his mother, Meredith.
As Peter explained, the original “Awesome Mix” is a collection of songs Meredith Quill loved growing up. It was her way of connecting and communicating with her son, especially as she was dying in the hospital.
Guardians of the Galaxy music also includes “Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone, “Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede, “Moonage Daydream” by David Bowie, “Cherry Bomb” by The Runaways, and “O-o-h Child” by Five Stairsteps.
Director James Gunn describes Meredith Quill and her love of music
The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack consists of 1970s hits chosen by Gunn. He wanted it to feel like a playlist that could have been curated by Meredith Quill.
“She’s a music lover, but she’s completely not elitist,” Gunn told Rolling Stone. “If it’s something that’s thought of as goofy and pop, she likes it. If it’s cool or funk, she likes it. She just likes hooks and melodies.”
“She’s a very quirky, young girl who fell in love with, you know, as it ends up, an alien,” he added. “And falling in love with an alien is right up there in Meredith Quill’s alley. She’s an oddball, like her son.”
Peter Quill managed to save the galaxy in Guardians of the Galaxy by singing and dancing to “O-o-h Child” by Five Stairsteps.
The ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’ soundtrack features more hits
Even the sequel to Guardians of the Galaxy features hit songs thanks to Meredith Quill (and James Gunn). Meredith had gifted Peter with a second cassette packed with more of her favorites. They include “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass, “My Sweet Lord” by George Harrison, “Southern Nights” by Glen Campbell, and “Come a Little Bit Closer” by Jay and the Americans.
The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack is available on most major streaming platforms.
