The Barbie soundtrack is finally here in its full pink glory. Genuinely I think it’s safe to say it’s one of the most anticipated albums of the year thanks to the pandemoniac hype of the film, but also because the rollout of the album has been just as impactful. Launching with the bespoke Dua Lipa lead single “Dance The Night”, they showcased the many different artists and perspectives they have on the soundtrack and gave you bonafide internet-breaking anthems every week. 

Now with the full record out in the world along with the movie, they’ve been able to reveal the specific creative direction they lent into. Some tracks were specially made to specifically soundtrack moments minute by minute in the film like Lizzo’s opening number “Pink,” and Tame Impala’s “Journey To The Real World”, which truly needs no explanation in where it appears plot wise. While other songs like Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” and Sam Smith’s “Man I Am” were direct responses to the characters feelings during the film. Then you had songs like PinkPantheress’ “Angel” and Karol G’s “WATITI” which were just aesthetically pleasing. And let’s talk about Ryan Gosling’s acid trip solo track “I’m Just Ken”. This song shouldn’t slap as hard as it does, or we really shouldn’t love it as much as we do, but it is a clear film highlight and a soundtrack highlight too. 

Some of the songs get big airtime in the film like Charli XCX’s “Speed Drive” which is a clear standout, but other songs like HAIM’s “Home”, FIFTY FIFTY’s “Barbie Dreams”, Dominic Fike’s “Hey Blondie”, Ava Max’s “Choose Your Fighter”, and GAYLE’s “Butterflies” deserve syncing justice.

This soundtrack was created to bring the listener immediately into BarbieLand. It was also created to be a celebration of what this movie stands for in so many different ways. The serotonin it delivers on a first listen is special. And if you don’t feel that serotonin rush then maybe it’s time for a doctor’s check up. It’s not meant to be too serious. It’s meant to be a soundtrack that has its light and shade, and also is just silly, fun and liberating.