The Transformers film franchise has gained acclaim for its memorable soundtrack, and this month, as we commemorate 50 years of hip-hop, Transformers: Rise of The Beasts celebrates the iconic genre with its killer hip-hop soundtrack.
Set in the 1990s, the film immerses us in the era, taking us on a nostalgic journey with 90s hip-hop classics from legendary artists like Wu-Tang Clan, A Tribe Called Quest, and The Notorious B.I.G.
To celebrate the home entertainment release of this epic film, we explore some of our favourite tracks featured and how each artist’s legacy lives on through their memorable music.
So, let’s dive in and discover how these unforgettable artists and their music bring the film to life in a spectacular fashion.
Warning: If you haven’t seen Transformers: Rise of The Beasts yet, be aware that this feature contains spoilers!
Wu-Tang Clan – C.R.E.A.M (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)
American hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan have not only established themselves as one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history but also as pop-culture legends. Pioneers of the East Coast hip-hop scene, they continue to inspire many artists today, through their innovative use of unconventional production techniques, gritty lyricism and innovative style.
Wu-Tang Clan’s iconic song “C.R.E.A.M” has become a cultural phenomenon, having also been featured in the 8 Mile soundtrack and now setting the stage for the introductory scene of the protagonist Noah Diaz in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Set in 1994, the scene shows Noah working on electronics in his bedroom while talking to his brother Kris on a walkie-talkie. The song not only adds to the nostalgic vibe of the era but also enriches the overall atmosphere of the scene. The room is filled with posters of 90s artists, a film playing on the TV that Noah fixes, and a collection of cassette tapes featuring hip-hop artists like De La Soul.
The anti-capitalist song’s lyrics resonate with the narrative of Noah’s quest to find employment and secure funds to cover his ill brother Kris’s healthcare expenses. The lyrics’ catchphrase “cash rules everything around me” or “cream” is a slang term for money which reflects Noah’s struggle to make ends meet.
SWV – Anything (Old Skool Radio 7” Version)
R&B trio SWV has undoubtedly made their mark in the music industry as one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, having sold over 25 million records worldwide. Their hit remix single “Anything,” featuring Wu-Tang Clan (it even samples “C.R.E.A.M”), plays during the introduction of the movie’s other human protagonist, Elena Wallace, who interns as an artefacts researcher at a museum.
In the scene, Elena is running late for her job and accidentally discovers an ancient artefact that turns out to be a powerful Transformers relic called the transwarp key. “Anything” not only showcases SWV’s soulful vocals but also adds to the dynamic and fast-paced energy of the scene. The scene sets the stage for Elena’s journey and the critical role she plays in the story, alongside the Transformers.
Nas – Represent
No hip-hop soundtrack would be complete without featuring one of the greatest rappers of ever. Nas, the celebrated rapper, is known for his extraordinary lyrical ability and socially conscious themes in his music. Nas’ legendary debut Illmatic is first seen as a poster in Noah’s room. Later in the film, the track “Represent” plays whilst Noah is planning with his friend Reek to steal a luxury Porsche (which we find out is Autobot Mirage later on). In the certified banger, Nas’ hard-hitting lyrics about his life in the streets and his criminal ties mirror the stakes of the illegal game that Noah and his friend are playing.
The film pays homage to the rap legend and his contribution to hip-hop more than once as he also features on the track written for the film, “On My Soul”, alongside Toby Nwigwe and Jacob Banks. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts showcases Nas’ phenomenal skills as an artist and how his music remains relevant and influential, even almost two decades later.
LL COOL J – Mama Said Knock You Out
“Mama Said Knock You Out” by two-time Grammy Award winner, LL Cool J proved to be an exceptional choice for Bumblebee’s epic comeback. The song, inspired by LL’s grandmother, who told him to “knock out” critics who were disappointed in his previous album, reflects Bumblebee’s resilience and refusal to be defeated. In the film, Bumbee’s fate is left uncertain until the transwarp key releases an outburst of energy which resurrects him. The punchy power anthem plays as a recharged Bumblebee becomes a powerful weapon of mass destruction that knocks out many of Scourge’s minions.
So, get ready to witness Bumblebee’s triumphant return, all while the iconic words of LL Cool J echo in our ears: “Don’t call it a comeback, I been here for years.”
The Notorious B.I.G – Hypnotize
“Hypnotize” is regarded as one of the greatest rap songs of all time and is a masterpiece that continues to transcend time. Created by the legendary Notorious B.I.G., this iconic track not only represents the artist’s final release before his tragic demise but also solidifies his status as one of the greatest rappers in history. With its unparalleled blend of powerful storytelling and infectious beats, “Hypnotize” has achieved monumental success both as a posthumous chart-topper and as a prominent feature in several hit films such as Oceans 8, 10 Things I Hate About You and Spider-man: Into The Spiderverse, elevating it to legendary status within the realm of rap and cinema.
“Hypnotize” firmly establishes its legendary status by making not just one, but two appearances in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts in pivotal scenes, as Noah and Mirage venture into an abandoned location and during the credits.
So, what are you waiting for? Take a trip back to the 1990s by listening to the full playlist here!
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is available to Download & Keep from the 14th August from Paramount Home and on DVD, Blu-ray™, 4K UHD™, 4K UHD™ + Blu-ray™ SteelBook® and HMV exclusive 4K UHD™ + Blu-ray™ SteelBook® 9th October.
