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[Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies: those unforgettable classics and popular tunes

Putting aside silent films and the like, one of the elements essential to movies is, of course, music.

Many film fans would probably say that the brilliance of the scores that play during iconic scenes becomes part of their memories and stays with them.

So in this article, we’ve gathered a selection of great pieces centered on main themes from foreign films that have colored the history of cinema!

Rather than theme songs by singers or bands, we focus on main themes composed by the film’s score composers.

We’ve included many famous works across eras and genres, making this an article that both movie lovers and music fans can enjoy.

[Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies. Those unforgettable masterpieces and popular tracks (41–50)

Superman

Theme From SupermanJohn Williams

Superman • Main Theme • John Williams
Theme From SupermanJohn Williams

Superman is a 1978 American film based on an American comic book work.

The theme song was composed by John Williams, the master of film music also known for Star Wars.

Familiar from wind band performances and more, its famous melody is unforgettable after just one listen.

At the 1979 Saturn Awards, it won the award for Best Music along with honors such as Best Science Fiction Film.

The score delivers a grand and powerful sound that perfectly suits the brave hero, Superman.

[Film Music] Theme songs from foreign films. Unforgettable classics and popular tracks (51–60)

The StoryNorah Jones

The gem-like melodies that color the film My Blueberry Nights are heartwarming pieces that beautifully fuse elements of jazz and pop.

Norah Jones’s translucent vocals and the piano’s simple yet deeply resonant lines gently envelop the film’s world.

Released in 2007, this Wong Kar-wai film features the song in both the opening and closing, adding depth to the story.

With the expressive singing only Norah Jones—who won five Grammy Awards for the album Come Away With Me—can deliver, it masterfully conveys the film’s emotions centered on loneliness, hope, and renewal.

It’s a perfect track to listen to alone on a quiet night, or when you want to reflect on memories with someone special.

Amélie

La Valse d’AmélieYann Tiersen

The piece whose accordion tone evokes the image of Paris, France is “La valse d’Amélie.” It is the theme song of the French film Amélie, which won the Grand Prix at the 2001 Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, and it was composed by Yann Tiersen.

Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet reportedly fell in love with his music and asked him to compose for the film.

The pieces he provided are all nostalgic and charming, characteristic works by Tiersen influenced by classical music and French folk music.

Snow White

Breath Of LifeFlorence & The Machine

Florence + The Machine – Breath Of Life
Breath Of LifeFlorence & The Machine

A mystical track where the vocalist of Florence + The Machine pours her soul into a sweeping soundscape woven by a grand orchestra and a 60-member choir.

It brilliantly captures the dark-fantasy atmosphere of the film Snow White, and sparked widespread buzz upon its release in April 2012.

Inspired by the complex inner world of the evil queen Ravenna, the song strikes a powerful balance between strength and sorrow, leaving a lasting impression.

Recorded at Abbey Road Studios, it exudes a majestic tone worthy of the film’s end credits.

A highly recommended piece for those seeking an epic musical experience that lingers in the heart as you bask in the film’s afterglow.

pink panther

The Pink Panther ThemeHenry Mancini

Do you know the piece called “The Pink Panther Theme”? Some of you might not immediately recognize the title.

But if I say “that song from The Pink Panther,” you’ll probably know it right away.

This piece is the main theme of the very first film in the Pink Panther series, The Pink Panther.

In Japan, it’s also frequently used on variety shows! As a side note, in the first film of the series, Inspector Clouseau was only a supporting character.

Hide And SeekImogen Heap

Imogen Heap – Hide And Seek (Official Video)
Hide And SeekImogen Heap

The dreamlike soundscape woven by the vocals and harmonizer gently stirs the listener’s heart.

Imogen Heap’s translucent voice delicately expresses feelings of parting and loss, blending with a unique, floating acoustic effect that seems to drift in midair.

Released in May 2005, the track captured many listeners as part of the album “Speak for Yourself.” Beginning with its striking use in the Season 2 finale of the hit drama The O.C., it has colored pivotal scenes in numerous visual works, including Normal People and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

It’s a resonant song that stays close to you during quiet nights spent alone or moments when you contemplate saying goodbye to someone dear.

Start A FireJohn Legend

This uplifting, up-tempo track blends a variety of genres into a moving piece that enriches the film’s story.

Set to a melody where jazz and pop are beautifully harmonized, John Legend’s expressive vocals resonate deeply.

Released as part of the soundtrack for the December 2016 film La La Land, it is included on the album “La La Land: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.” The song is featured in an impressive scene where John Legend’s character, Keith, performs it, further enhancing the film’s world.

It’s a perfect pick for those who want to revel in an exhilarating melody and refined vocals, or for anyone who wishes to relive their memories of La La Land through music.