Singer Joe Talbot commented on the meeting, saying: “This has been a huge opportunity for us that seemingly came about after a chance meeting backstage at Fallon when we both happened to be guests on the same day.
“This lucid dream has been a lifetime in the making and one that I will live over and over with a huge sense of humility and joy.”
The tracks created for the film are titled Doom, Cheerleader, Rabbit Run and Police & Thieves, with the film released in the UK on Friday August 29.
This got us thinking, which other musicians have dipped their toe into the cinematic waters and tried their trade on the big screen? Let’s take a look.
Tron: Legacy – Daft Punk
Daft Punk joined Walt Disney in 2010 for Tron: Legacy, creating a soundtrack composed of 22 songs. The album is an intriguing mix of electronic and orchestral percussion which transcends reality and immerses you in a futuristic society. Reflecting the film, its fast paced, energetic and laced with Daft Punk’s robotic brilliance. The project received very favourable reviews and even charted in the Top 40.
Submarine – Alex Turner
Artic Monkeys frontman Alex Turner provided his own six track EP which was used by director Richard Ayoade in the 2010 indie feature film Submarine. Turner’s debut EP strays away from the chaos of the Artic Monkeys to a more slow, emotional and folky sound, matching the melancholic and heartfelt feeling that is present within the film. Submarine EP also made it into the Top 40, peaking at Number 35.
Flash Gordon – Queen
Rock legends Queen‘s ninth studio album soundtracked the science fiction classic Flash Gordon in 1981. Interestingly, although written by the band, only two songs contain lyrics including the universally known Flash’s Theme. This film was made for Queen. It allowed them to experimentally explore new ways to symphonically encapsulate watchers, and it worked.
The soundtrack also performed incredibly well in the UK, breaking the Top 10 on the Official Albums Chart.
Superfly – Curtis Mayfield
The 1972 crime drama Superfly embodies the swaggering, sensual feel of the ’70s, capped off by the critically acclaimed soundtrack written and produced by Curtis Mayfield. This has been regarded as one the pioneering soul and funk albums to date, being praised for its rawness, commentary on social issues and willingness to stand alone. It is poetic, rhythmic and an essential piece of art. Mayfield’s masterful creative breakthrough.
A commercial success in the US, Superfly also made it into the UK Top 40 Albums Chart, reaching Number 26.
Superfly amazingly outgrossed the film it was supporting, further highlighting its excellence. Moreover, Superfly was so well loved, it was nominated for a Grammy as well as being inducted into the music Hall of Fame in 1998. There wasn’t much this soul genius couldn’t do.
Black Panther – Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick was approached by director Ryan Coogler whom he had met before and was instantly eager to collaborate with him. Lamar was inspired to contribute to the film and its deep message. He matched that in true Kendrick style with an upbeat, lyrical triumph. With multiple features, including Travis Scott, SZA and The Weeknd to name a few, the soundtrack echoed the beauty of this film.
Which other artists can you think of who’ve contributed to film soundtracks?
