"Space Jam" hit theaters 20 years ago today. It has aged remarkably well and still makes for a thrilling and rewarding experience from start to finish: the slapstick humor, Muggsy Bogues, the the greatness of Stan Podolak, the implication that the Looney Tunes universe actually exists, the terrifying prospect of the Looney Tunes slaving away on Moron Mountain, and the R&B- and rap-focused soundtrack that gives the movie its (delicious!) flavor.
The "Space Jam" soundtrack went double platinum within eight weeks of its release. Click through the gallery to revisit five of its best songs, from "The Monstars' Anthem" to "I Believe I Can Fly."
Honorable mention: Monica's "For You I Will"; D'Angelo's "I Found My Smile Again."
B-Real, Coolio, Method Man, LL Cool J, & Busta Rhymes - "Hit Em High" (The Monstars' Anthem)
In the film, the Monstars' Anthem is played while the five aliens rush the recently spit-shined gym to flex for MJ and his motley crew of Looney Tuners. It's a disheartening moment that comes immediately after MJ agrees to suit up for the Tune Squad. The track features five rappers, one for each Monstar (Pound, Bang, Nawt, Bupkus, and Blanko).
Seal - "Fly Like An Eagle"
A perfectly executed cover of the Steve Miller Band's 1976 original, Seal's "Fly Like An Eagle" is the soundtrack to the triumphant MJ workout. Its elements are cleanly divided -- the airy organ and guitar provide lift, while an earthy bass-and-drum groove propel the song forward -- and bound together by Seal's raspy vocals.
Barry & Chris Rock - "Basketball Jones"
A remake of a popular Cheech and Chong track, "Basketball Jones" provides the backdrop for the montage in which Charles Barkley and the rest of the NBA players attempting to come to terms with (and find a medical cure for) the loss of their basketball powers. Chris Rock runs his mouth about three octaves above Barry White's reassuring, syrupy drawl over a slowed-down version of the "Impeach the President" break.
Quad City DJs - "Space Jam"
Along with the numerically themed 2 Live Crew, 95 South, and 69 Boyz, the Quad City DJ's were a paragon of the glorious and short-lived Miami bass. They are responsible for most lit title sequence in the history of cinema.
R. Kelly - "I Believe I Can Fly"
Oboe was finally given the chance to shine on "I Believe I Can Fly" and delivered with flying colors. In the context of the film's introduction, which features a young Michael Jordan shooting hoops late into the night, it symbolizes youth, humility, hope, and the quest for greatness.
