John Williams Popular Song Rankings [2026]

The Chamber of SecretsJohn Williams15rank/position

The Chamber of Secrets

A very dynamic piece named after the second installment in the series, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Its development builds impressively, as if gradually closing in on the mystery of what the “Chamber of Secrets” really is.

The interplay between the strings and the brass heightens anticipation for the story.

For some listeners, this single track alone may deliver the satisfaction of having watched an entire film.

It’s a hugely popular work, passionately supported by fans of the Harry Potter series.

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Araki Jakkan

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The Dueling ClubJohn Williams16rank/position

The Dueling Club

At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Lockhart announces he’s starting a dueling club.

He picks Snape as his assistant and opponent, but is promptly defeated.

The scene where he gets up while making excuses always makes me chuckle.

Then comes the serious bout between Potter and Malfoy, which somehow still feels kind of adorable.

Tension and comedy—this is a track that carries those contrasting vibes.

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Housui Sachiyo

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The Imperial March from The Empire Strikes BackJohn Williams17rank/position

John Williams – The Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back (Audio)

One more piece from Star Wars: the familiar theme of Darth Vader.

In Episodes IV and V, which were released earlier, Lord Vader was the most formidable enemy.

The terrifying feeling of this piece—like, “He’s coming! He’s coming!”—is exquisite.

When I had just started working, there was a hot-tempered boss, and all the employees used to say, “That’s his theme song.” Sometimes the boss himself would even make an entrance while humming it.

Hedwig’s Theme (Main Theme from the film “Harry Potter”)John Williams18rank/position

Harry Potter – Hedwig’s Theme (Piano Version)

When you think of the Harry Potter films, this is the song that comes to mind! Named after Hedwig, the snowy owl who is Harry Potter’s pet, this piece is used in key scenes throughout the series and is widely loved as the “Harry Potter theme.” Incidentally, it’s said to be the only piece featured in every installment of the series.

Its simple melody, which exudes a mysterious atmosphere that draws listeners into an otherworldly realm, pairs perfectly with the delicate tone of the piano.

Even casually playing the opening section is enough to get you into the Halloween spirit!

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yuri

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Rey’s ThemeJohn Williams19rank/position

John Williams – Rey’s Theme (Audio Only)

Rey, the female Jedi who becomes the protagonist of the new Star Wars chapter, Episode VII.

It’s a track without much flash, but when you listen to it, it makes your heart race and feel a bit restless, as if foreshadowing the beginning of the story.

In terms of the storyline, it’s a sequel set after Episode VI of the original trilogy, and Leia and Han Solo also appear.

The Lost WorldJohn Williams20rank/position

The Lost World (From “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” Soundtrack)

A very wild, adventure-filled piece that colors the second installment of the series, The Lost World: Jurassic Park.

In stark contrast to the glittering atmosphere of the previous film, the opening features percussion beating out an ominous rhythm that immediately draws the listener into the film’s world.

John Williams’s composition, with a melody that foreshadows a dangerous expedition, simultaneously highlights the island’s mystique.

You could say it superbly captures the film’s thrilling worldview.

For those who want to relive through music the tension of an island teeming with dinosaurs, this may be an irresistible track.

Theme from JawsJohn Williams21rank/position

Main Title

A track included on the soundtrack of the popular 1975 film Jaws, composed by John Williams, who also wrote themes for films like Star Wars.

Famous as the theme of Jaws, this piece is a simple track that skillfully mixes tension and release, yet features an unforgettable phrase that, once heard, sticks in your mind.

It heightens anxiety and fear with rich horror elements, creating music that makes your spine tingle.