For many people in the ‘80s, the first place they heard bands like The Smiths, New Order, Echo & The Bunnymen and Psychedelic Furs was at the movies — specifically movies by filmmaker John Hughes. He filled his soundtracks with alternative rock and pop, and much it from the U.K.

Hughes’s interest in alternative music and culture was reflected in how his film's characters talked and dressed, what music they listened to, and how he styled his sets — including featuring alternative band posters on the walls of characters' bedrooms. The soundtracks of John Hughes's films were incredibly influential, and for many alternative artists, essential to getting them their first airplay in the United States.

This week on Teenage Kicks, we're spinning some of the music featured in those iconic 80s movies by John Hughes.

(And to dig even deeper, I suggest checking out the compilation/box set Life Moves Pretty Fast: The John Hughes Mixtapes.)

Program playlist, hour 1

Program playlist, hour 2

Gallery: John Hughes

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