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Star Wars/The Empire Strikes Back – The Original Soundtrack from the Motion Picture cover

Star Wars/The Empire Strikes Back – The Original Soundtrack from the Motion Picture

John Williams

Album 1980
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About this album

Sound: "An orchestral tapestry weaving grand themes and emotional depth, capturing the epic saga of space battles and heroism."

Where they were

By 1980, John Williams was already an established composer, having achieved fame with the scores for 'Jaws' and 'Star Wars.' 'The Empire Strikes Back' marked his continued collaboration with George Lucas, solidifying his role as a leading figure in film scoring as he followed up the groundbreaking success of the original Star Wars score.

Why it matters

This soundtrack is notable for introducing iconic themes such as 'The Imperial March,' which became synonymous with Darth Vader and the dark side of the Force. Its critical acclaim helped elevate film music to new heights, showcasing Williams' ability to enhance narrative through music and influencing countless film composers who followed.

Essential tracks

  • "The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme)" — This track not only serves as Darth Vader's iconic theme but also represents the darker undertones of the film's narrative. Its powerful orchestration has become emblematic of villainy in cinematic history.
  • "Han Solo and the Princess" — This poignant piece beautifully captures the romantic tension between Han Solo and Princess Leia, providing an emotional counterpoint to the action. It highlights Williams’ talent for creating intimate musical moments amidst epic storytelling.
  • "The Battle of Hoth: Ion Cannon / Imperial Walkers / Beneath the AT-AT / Escape in the Millennium Falcon" — This complex suite encapsulates one of the film's most climactic scenes, blending tension and excitement through its dynamic orchestration. It showcases Williams' skill at elevating action sequences with dramatic music.

Release Date

May 16, 1980

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 20th Century Fox Fanfare 0:21
  2. 2 Main Title / The Ice Planet Hoth 8:08
  3. 3 The Wampa’s Lair / Vision of Obi-Wan / Snowspeeders Take Flight 8:48
  4. 4 The Imperial Probe / Aboard the Executor 4:24
  5. 5 The Battle of Hoth: Ion Cannon / Imperial Walkers / Beneath the AT-AT / Escape in the Millennium Falcon 14:48
  6. 6 The Asteroid Field 4:15
  7. 7 Arrival on Dagobah 4:52
  8. 8 Luke’s Nocturnal Visitor 2:35
  9. 9 Han Solo and the Princess 3:26
  10. 10 Jedi Master Revealed / Mynock Cave 5:44
  11. 11 The Training of a Jedi Knight / The Magic Tree 5:15

Disc 2

  1. 1 The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme) 3:02
  2. 2 Yoda’s Theme 3:29
  3. 3 Attacking a Star Destroyer 3:04
  4. 4 Yoda and the Force 4:02
  5. 5 Imperial Starfleet Deployed / City in the Clouds 6:03
  6. 6 Lando’s Palace 3:53
  7. 7 Betrayal at Bespin 3:46
  8. 8 Deal With the Dark Lord 2:36
  9. 9 Carbon Freeze / Darth Vader’s Trap / Departure of Boba Fett 11:50
  10. 10 The Clash of Lightsabers 4:17
  11. 11 Rescue From Cloud City / Hyperspace 9:08
  12. 12 The Rebel Fleet / End Title 6:26

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