Bryn Mawr Film Institute Executive Director Scott Fisher picks Philly Soul, Sinatra, The Stones, more for Ears We Trust

With our 885 Countdown of the Greatest Songs from Movies and TV looming (submit your songs here), we wanted to branch out for Ears We Trust and ask someone in the cinema world to chime in. Scott Fisher, Executive Director of the Bryn Mawr Film Institute is up for this installment.

BMFI—a non-profit, member-supported film and education center—reached a milestone in 2026: the historic venue turned 100 and has been celebrating A Century of Cinema all year long.

“I start each day blasting tunes at my office at the theater before our staff and patrons arrive,” Fisher said. “Often with vintage vinyl which along with analog movie projection (a BMFI specialty) is making a big comeback! Over the past few weeks, here is a playlist I have enjoyed.”

Johnny Cash — “I’ve Been Everywhere”

Johnny Cash is a great storyteller and this song reminds me of the many places I have lived and worked including Wilson and Raleigh in North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Washington, DC; Buffalo, New York; and now Bryn Mawr.

Jimi Hendrix — “Crosstown Traffic”

The guitar and vocals on this track always get my creative juices flowing and are a surefire wake me up! I particularly like this one during my exercise time.

The Rolling Stones — “Under My Thumb”

If I had to pick just one band to listen to for the rest of my life it would be The Stones. Mick and the boys bring passion and energy to all of their tracks with a nod to the blues and soul pioneers. They are ageless and that inspires me to stay young.

Frank Sinatra — “Fly Me to the Moon”

Frank did it his way. This tune has been covered by so many artists which is a tribute to his work. This one always picks me up if I have had a tough day or things didn’t go our way at the theater (a rarity).

The Blues Brothers & Ray Charles — “Shake your Tail Feather”

Another terrific track to get you out of your chair and moving about with a bounce in your step. Can you do the “Mashed Potato,” “The Twist,” “The Bird?”

Buck Owens and the Buckaroos — “Act Naturally”

Brandon, one of our top projectionists here at Bryn Mawr Film Institute, and I share a love for country music. This track spins the yarn of a would-be movie star who just has to “act naturally.” We like to listen to country tunes prior to projecting classic movies on 35MM. Gets us in the zone!

Us3 feat. Rahsaan and Gerard Presencer — “Cantaloop (Flip Fantasia)”

This blues track features so many instruments and a groovy horn section with some rap. Need I say more.

The Sugarhill Gang — “Rappers Delight“

I worked as a part-time DJ at a soul music radio station in Rocky Mount, North Carolina when I was in high school. I still have the album from those days with the sheet where I handwrote the lyrics down. Wonder Mike, Hank, and Master G could sure rap a story… “Hotel Motel Holiday Inn!” Songs remind me of moments in time.

B.J. Thomas — “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head”

We recently had a flood at the theater with all the heavy rains from the summer. This one felt appropriate during the peak of that challenge which has now been resolved. I had to rewatch Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid as a result.

Young MC — “Bust A Move”

What a great beat and sure to get you out on a dance floor. Loved watching George Clooney and the cast of Up in the Air dancing to this classic.

Amy Winehouse — “Rehab”

One of the best female vocalists of our time. Such a distinctive sound and an amazing storyteller. The horn section and drums on this track are such a great complement to the voice of Amy!

The Four Tunes — “Far Away Places”

I love to travel and this song gets me in the mood to plan a trip with my wife and son. We’ve traveled to Finland, Greece, and Turkey in the last few years.

Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes — “The Love I Lost”

No list of mine would be complete without some Philly Soul! I used to make mixtapes in my youth, and this song was on every single one. Might be on a tape coupled with Electric Light Orchestra and some Pink Floyd, but what the heck. Teddy could belt it out. Remember the iconic Soul Train performance?

Van Morrison — “Back on Top”

Van needs no commentary. Such a prolific catalog of songs.