If you didn’t know about the British music invasion before the London Games Opening Ceremony, you were sure to know about it when you left. Many people don’t realize just how many British bands influenced the rock and roll revolution.
While director Danny Boyle insisted this was a ceremony about athletes, it certainly felt like an awesome concert. In fact, a total of 17 musicians took part in carrying the Olympic Torch. The selection of music covered several different generations. With songs from the Beatles and Rolling Stones, the cheering crowd worked itself into a frenzy. Another rock classic played was “My Generation” by The Who. Adding to the collection was music from David Bowie, Queen, the Specials and Jam, Stone Roses and the Eurithmics. It was clear what an important role British music has maintained throughout the years.
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As the athletes made their way around the track, the music played as if it was a soundtrack for their own personal journey to the Games. While 204 national teams marched on parade, songs like “West End Girls” by the Pet Shop Boys rang loud and clear.
In addition to rock and roll from the past, Mr. Boyle chose to include two of the hottest English acts in music. Dizzee Rascal performed his musical hit “Bonkers.” Singer Emeli Sande and the Arctic Monkeys also performed during the Opening Ceremonies.
Once the British team entered the stadium, the crowd roared with applause and gave their home team a proper welcome. Under the thunderous applause, David Bowie’s “Heroes” and The Sex Pistols’ “Pretty Vacant” could be heard. During the fireworks display, Mr. Boyle chose to play Pink Floyd’s very fitting “Dark Side of the Moon.”
Closing out the Opening Ceremonies, the crowd was in for a great surprise as Paul McCartney walked out to take the stage. The former Beatle gave a stellar performance, closing the show with an amazing rendition of “Hey Jude.” Toward the end of the song, Sir Paul led the entire stadium in a sing along of “na-na-na, Hey Jude” On a side note, Paul McCartney must have found the Fountain of Youth somewhere because he still looks pretty darn young.
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Nikki Seay
Contributing Writer
(Image courtesy of NBC)
Contributing Writer, BuddyTV
