Pick Yourself Up - Nat King Cole

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOpSDNBPepk]

Originally recorded by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers for the film Swing Time, this song soon become a classic and seen covers by Sinatra and Cole among others. It was even performed on The Muppet Show by Nancy Walker and Fozzy Bear. It has remained a feature in television and movies today, even making an appearance in a recent AMC hit.

Breaking Bad has introduced me to some great music, albeit over some strange visuals, but I think the mix of smooth music with disturbing scenes is what makes the show and the music all that more memorable. If you're not familiar with the show, it's about a high school chemistry teacher that resorts to cooking meth to cover his medical bills and final expenses after being diagnosed with cancer. Well, as often happens, things don't turn out quite as planned. If you aren't up-to-date on the show...

::SPOILER ALERT::

This song plays over a scene where Walter, the aforementioned chemistry teacher/meth cook, has to order a hit on a list of nine incarcerated accomplices to keep them quiet. The song plays on as each person is murdered in jail/prison. The calm, poetic sound of Cole's voice rings loud and clear over the stabbings and other violent deaths. It's strange how the two work together.

The scene described above can be watched below. Be warned it's definitely not fit for all eyes. It's probably one of the most brutal scenes I've witnessed on TV, especially the first victim's death. The song is also significant, because this is sort of Walt's time to step out on his own, pick himself up, and start all over again.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2uLNioVW-M]