Top 10 Anthems: John Williams

Top 10 Anthems: John Williams

He may not be a household name, but legendary composer John Williams has definitely made his profound impact in the music world. He has created many of the very famous theme songs featured in classic movies like Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Jaws, and many more.

His songs are timeless, with many achieve legendary status, making this list extremely difficult to create. Here’s the top ten:

 

10) “Main Title” (Jaws, 1975)

The “Main Title” of Jaws is the ultimate suspense builder. It leaves the viewers on the edge of their seats, and awaits  the reveal of the monster, and is a must listen to any John Williams fan.

 

9) “Princess Leia’s Theme” (Star Wars: A New Hope, 1977)

Featured in the very first Star Wars movie, “Princess Leia’s Theme” transports the listeners into a galaxy far far away. A rather calming tune, it is a must for any soundtrack playlist one could create.

 

8) “Leaving Hogwarts” (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, 2001)

“Leaving Hogwarts” is the type of song that you simply cannot stop listening to. The calming nature of the melodies played is just magical, as are the movies.

 

7) “The Imperial March” (Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, 1980)

When “The Imperial March” begins every single viewer knows who’s about to walk in. Arguably the greatest villain in fictional history, Darth Vader is not only phenomenal, but so is his iconic theme song.

 

6) “Hedwig’s Theme” (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, 2001)

Don’t let the name fool you, “Hedwig’s Theme” is the theme song of yet another very famous fictional character. He is indeed a wizard, and this tune transports a listener to the wondrous world of Harry Potter.

 

5) “Duel of The Fates” (Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, 1999)

Although “Duel of The Fates” is widely considered to be Darth Maul’s theme, it appears in many other instances. Besides a few others, it is arguably the most iconic Star Wars song to date, becoming very popular in the newer generations of Star Wars fans.

 

4) “Theme from Jurassic Park” (Jurassic Park, 1993)

The “Theme from Jurassic Park” is easily one of the most recognizable soundtrack songs of all time. The second one hears the theme, they see the ford explorers and T-rexes of the failed amusement park.

 

3) “Superman March” (Superman: The Movie, 1978)

The world’s greatest superhero comes with one of the greatest theme songs of all time. “Superman March” is almost always guaranteed to be followed by a majestic flight by the man himself, Superman.

 

2) “Star Wars Main Title” (Star Wars: A New Hope, 1977)

There is only one idea in mind when hearing this song: it’s time for Star Wars. “Star Wars Main Title” is arguably the most famous song of all time, as it is instantly recognizable. It brings joy to any movie watcher when it is played.

 

1) “Raiders March” (Raiders of the Lost Ark, 1981)

The fedora. The whip. The theme song. Indiana Jones, who is already one of the greatest characters ever to be created is followed by his phenomenal theme song. “Raiders March” without an argument is not only John Williams’ best song, but goes down as the greatest theme song of all time. 

 

Honorable Mentions:

  • “Olympic Fanfare and Theme”
  • “Cantina Band”
  • “Anakin’s Betrayal”
  • “E.T.:Flying Theme”
  • “Yoda’s Theme”

 

With Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny coming in June, John Williams crafts his final soundtrack as he finishes his storied career with one last adventure.