HBO’s Showstopper Series “Winning Time” Ups the Ante
HBO’s hit series “Winning Time: The Rise of The Lakers Dynasty” swings into its sophomore season, amping up the entertainment factor with a dynamic soundtrack that’s as bold and energetic as the Lakers’ plays. These selected tunes, an eclectic mix from the 1980s and beyond, set the mood and paint Los Angeles of the ’80s with neon hues and funk vibes. Let’s take a stroll down this melodious lane, episode by episode.
Episode 1 – “One Ring Don’t Make A Dynasty”
The season’s opening salvo is reminiscent of the Lakers’ own journey, with ups, downs, and unexpected moments. Prince & The Revolution’s “Let’s Go Crazy” captures the euphoria of an NBA Finals win, while “Magic” by Olivia Newton-John humorously ties into Magic Johnson’s rising stardom.
Moments of intrigue are plentiful, such as when “Volare” by Bobby Rydell plays in the backdrop of a conversation hinting at Larry Bird’s NBA entry. Meanwhile, the Laker’s energetic gameplay is captured with tracks like “Best of My Love” by The Emotions. Yet, not all is rosy, as Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” dramatically shifts the episode’s tone with Magic’s on-court injury.
Episode 2 – “The Magic Is Back”
A rollercoaster of emotions, episode two dives deep into Magic’s recovery and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the Lakers team. “Urgent” by Foreigner becomes the anthem of Magic’s fierce determination to reclaim his spot, while the soulful “Rocking” by Brief Encounter celebrates the Lakers’ unity in victory.
Yet, a series is nothing without its conflicts. The strains between Coach Westhead and Pat Riley come to the fore, with “In the Middle of Love” by HP Riot foreshadowing the discord, aptly followed by Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” – a nod to the whisper networks that underpin any high-stakes environment.
Episode 3 – “The Second Coming”
Episode three shifts focus to the East Coast, following the rise of Larry Bird. The poignant “No Man’s Land” by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band paints a vivid picture of Bird’s humble beginnings, while upbeat tunes like “Double Dutch Bus” by Frankie Smith juxtapose the two coasts’ distinct basketball cultures.
Larry’s raw talent shines as “Got That Feeling” by Harry Krapsho backs his awe-inspiring pickup basketball scenes. Yet, amidst this tale of rising legends, the camaraderie between Magic and Jerry Buss stands out, encapsulated by “Love Is All We Need” by Mike James Kirkland, as they discuss Magic’s potential 25-year Laker stint.
From a rambunctious celebration of wins to the pensive moments of introspection, HBO’s “Winning Time” uses its eclectic soundtrack to encapsulate the very essence of the ’80s Lakers era. It’s not just a visual treat but an aural journey, making the series an all-rounded cinematic experience. With many more episodes to come, one can only anticipate the melodies that lie ahead in this captivating series.
