Barbie the Album
Updated: Apr 19
By James Yu Apr. 3, 2024
In light of Women’s History Month, I found it fitting to review the soundtrack of a Blockbuster film celebrating women—the “Barbie” movie. Featuring a diverse set of contemporary music superstars, “Barbie The Album” offers listeners a tune to jam out to enjoy for every occasion.
Opening both the album and the film, Lizzo’s “Pink” is proficient in not only introducing Barbie Land in the movie, but also setting the theme for the following songs: energetic, classy and bold. Similarly, the following track, Dua Lipa’s “Dance The Night,” catches listener’s attention through a disco melody.
Building upon the theme set by the preceding songs, Nicki Minaj, Ice Spice and Aqua’s “Barbie World” utilizes Minaj’s lionhearted rap, Spice’s iconic “Jersey Club” beat style and an iconic sample from the original television “Barbie World” song to synthesize a dauntless hip-hop song which gets listeners bouncing to the beat.
Ricocheting out of “Barbie World,” Charlie XCX’s “Speed Drive” accelerates the album’s tempo to the max. Charlie XCX’s static yet nimble vocals blast through listener’s ears, joined by an ecstatic synth instrumental accompaniment.
Slowing down the rhythm, Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” delivers an emotionally exhilarating track which perfectly encapsulates Ken’s desire throughout the film for recognition from Barbie. Although the quicker instrumental interlude momentarily distorts Gosling’s riveting vocal performance, overall “I’m Just Ken” perfectly accompanies Ken throughout the film. Moreover, Gosling’s “Push” on the “Best Weekend Ever Edition” of “Barbie The Album” enhances Gosling’s desperate vocal performance, as Ken makes use of his enthralling guitar skills to nail for Barbie’s approval.
Recognizing Barbie’s accomplishments, Dominic Fike’s “Hey Blondie” mixes Fike’s affectionate voice with lovestruck lyrics. Similarly, PinkPantheress’ “Angel” blends PinkPantheress’ unique sweetheart vocals with a country inspired instrumental to form an angelic tune.
On the other hand, HAIM’s “Home” and Billie Eilish’s “What was I made for?” shift the mood from joyous to serene. Eilish’s “What was I made for?” trades in the album’s speed and rhythm for a lonely piano accompaniment to Eillish’s wispy voice, flipping the album’s script by twisting the mood from snappy and upbeat to sentimental and tender.
Overall, by covering any potential feeling a listener could possibly be desiring, Barbie recognizes the beauty and diverse accomplishments women have achieved.
About the contributors
James Yu
staff writer
James Yu is a sophomore at Leland High School and a staff writer for The Charger Account. During his free time, he's obsessing over Speech and Debate, an active Boy Scout, and hanging out with friends.
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