I love music so much. It’s such a deeply influential part of my existence that I don’t think I could live without it. Not just musicals, where the characters sing out the plot and stage big dance numbers. I’m talking about movies that center around the theme of music, and that are fueled by a love of it. These are some of my favorite films that celebrate music.

5.) Empire Records – A great little movie from 1995 that stars of group of virtual unknowns at the time. Of those unknowns were Renee Zellweger and Liv Tyler, two girls who work at an independent record store that is threatened by a huge music chain. It is filled with quirky performances and a terrific soundtrack from the 80s and early 90s. Hey, it’s Rex Manning Day!

4.) This Is Spinal Tap – A hilarious send-up of over the top stage shows and rock and roll antics. The film that launched the long and glorious career of comedic director Christopher Guest, seen here cranking up the knob to eleven.

3.) Cherish – An independent film from 2002, this film stars Robin Tunney as a shut-in who continually calls in to her favorite radio station to request weird pop tunes. She’s framed for hitting, and killing, an officer with her car, and is put under house arrest. Her ankle bracelet technician, played by the awesomely strange and wonderful Tim Blake Nelson (of O Brother, Where Art Thou?), finds himself drawn to this unusual woman. Love this movie, fantastic soundtrack that includes Hall and Oates, Animotion, and Tom Petty.

2.) Once – The little movie that could. It took home the Best Original Song Academy Award last year for the beautiful gem, “Falling Slowly.” A heartbreaking movie, it concerns the lives of two poor people living and breathing music as they attempt to struggle through their feelings for one another.

1.) Almost Famous – My favorite because it truly embraces rock and roll. It is funny, sad, sweet, and intelligent. Kate Hudson as Penny Lane would describe my life if I had been a beautiful, carefree girl in the 70s. I would be a free spirit, following my favorite band across the country, just to hear them play.