Most of the fun I have on the show involves music in one way or another. Music is a big part of my life. I tried to put together an eclectic list of songs that compliment Scanlan, but you’ll see that his tastes–like mine–are kind of all over the map.
Enjoy and keep singing!
Sam Riegel – Scanlan’s Soundtrack
Killing Me Softly With His Song – Roberta Flack
Very fitting tune for bards, in general. Scanlan is pretty sarcastic about the power of his music. But in reality, music is powerful. It can move people; it can affect change. It can kill.
Sweet Painted Lady – Elton John
Scanlan loves ladies, what can I say? And when he has some downtime, well, he’s a grown gnome. He can make his own decisions. This is a catchy tune that pays homage to the paid women in Scanlan’s life.
Liar Liar – The Castaways
Part of my duties on Critical Role is being the party’s liar-in-chief. It’s genuinely fun. So here’s a campy surf song about telling fibs, with a pretty catchy guitar riff.
(You’re The) Devil in Disguise – Elvis Presley
Actually the lyrics are about a rotten, scheming woman… but whatever, it’s a great tune about persuading someone you’re harmless when you’ve got ulterior motives. Which, again, Scanlan does a lot.
Sexual Healing – Marvin Gaye
The classic from Marvin Gaye perfectly encapsulates two facets of Scanlan: he heals, and he sexes. Sometimes at the same time. Also I sang this song on the stream to a brain-controlling Illithid, which is kinda cool.
Hey There Delilah – Plain White T’s
Another song I performed on the show. Also, it’s a kickass ballad with a chorus that will burn into your head for days.
I Write The Songs – Barry Manilow
Cheesy? Yes. Egotistical? Sure. But a classic nonetheless. And for someone who has to cough up a handful of songs every episode, it’s wonderful to hear. Plus, Barry’s voice is smooth like butter.
Respect the Mustache – Action Bronson with Statik Selektah
Full disclosure, I wanted to include “Let’s Do Something Cheap and Superficial” by Burt Reynolds, but it’s not on Spotify. So I found this song instead. The lyrics are still egotistical, which I dig: “I’m straight raw like Carpaccio / I’m just a heartthrob straight off the screen, just like DiCaprio”
Killer Queen – Queen
Queen was all about drama, flair, and surprise. They were loud and proud. This track keeps syncopating and changing constantly, but maintains a powerful mood throughout that says “check me out, mofo, or I will cut you down.”
Lose Yourself – Eminem
True fact: Scanlan’s backstory is loosely based on Eminem’s. He rose up from troubles and found salvation in his passion for music. Music literally saved his life. And he will keep “dropping bombs” until he makes his mark or dies. You only get one shot.
Featured Image Credit: Thomas Brin