One of the earliest memories I have of cinema is when my dad took me to see Edward Scissorhands in the movie theatre. I was just 8 years old, but I can still vividly remember being transported to another world by the beautiful music on screen. The iconic film score fills the space, elevating the movie to richly emotional experiences that might not be possible otherwise.
When the movie was over, I made my dad stay in the theatre and sit through the end credits. I had to know who was responsible for creating this beautiful music! I had to find out, in the hopes that I could find even more music by this person. (Think pre-internet and streaming days when we discovered music through our own due diligence, researching and acquiring cassettes and CDs when available.) I discovered that the composer was Danny Elfman, and since that day, as a very impressionable 8-year-old, I have been a dedicated fan.
I've always been curious about the music I listen to: the artist, composer, songwriter, producer, which album, etc. So, I noticed right away that Danny Elfman was always linked to the films of Tim Burton, who I also fell in love with at an early age. This duo of Burton and Elfman has been extremely influential on my personal style and a mainstay on my journey through film and music. They create such a uniquely rich aesthetic that is instantly recognizable. Haunting and beautiful, spooky but whimsical, jarring and elegant, forlorn yet heroic, ICONIC. One can’t help but notice the music of Danny Elfman.
Just in time for Halloween, I’ve curated a playlist of my favorite Danny Elman scores, mostly from Tim Burton Films, but also a few from other projects. These tunes are sure to set the spooky vibe of the season. I hope that you give it a listen, and remember that we can find music that inspires us in all kinds of places, especially in our favorite films.