John Williams Popular Song Rankings [2026]

The Imperial March from The Empire Strikes BackJohn Williams16rank/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 Williams17rank/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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Hedwig’s Theme: Harry Potter and the Chamber of SecretsJohn Williams18rank/position

Harry Potter – Hedwig’s Theme – John Williams | WDR Funkhausorchester

When you think of the Harry Potter films, this is the song that surely makes everyone nod in agreement.

Composed by John Williams, this piece brims with a mysterious allure that whisks listeners into a magical world in an instant.

The melody, opening with the sparkling timbre of the celesta, is perfect for heightening Halloween’s spooky-yet-festive mood.

It first debuted on the album Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and went on to color the story in the soundtrack for the sequel, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (released in November 2002).

Incidentally, it’s such an emblematic piece of the series that it’s even quoted in the spin-offs.

Play it on Halloween night, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into a school of witchcraft and wizardry!

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.

Theme from JawsJohn Williams20rank/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.