Music of the Galaxy

John Williams spectacular score for Star Wars has some of the most recognizing soundtracks ever. The Imperial March, Cantina Band, The Main Theme and Duel of the Fates resonate with audiences. What would the movies be like without the love theme for Padme and Anakin, the Duel of the Fates between Darth Maul and the jedi, Obi-Wan and Anakin's climactic battle? What about the quiet moment of yearning when Luke looks at the setting suns just before his adventure begins? They warn us of impending danger, of lurking evil, of love mixed with impending tragedy. As Star Wars spreads into video games, yet more music soundtracks are needed, and the inspiration continues to grow with new artistic interpretations. And if you look hard, you'll find Star Wars mentioned, if not inspiring, other songs by other artists in a galactic celebration.

The Soundtracks

All of the music for the Star Wars Movies was created by John Williams, and the London Symphony Orchestra. It's been released, movie by movie, in everything from the original 'vinyl' records (original trilogy) to cassettes, to CDs.
In addition, there are various versions of cover art, some limited edition.

Interesting things to hunt for include:

• The Phantom Menace Ultimate Edition includes every single soundtrack, in order, from the movie.
• Return of the Jedi versions: changes to the soundtrack include added music at the end of the Return of the Jedi, and alterations of the music in Jabba the Hutt's court. Does this music exist on the old vinyl? Is it on an old soundtrack, or buried only in the ancient versions of the story told on vinyl record?
• Recreations of the soundtrack by other artists.
• Sheet Music, for those who want to learn the music for themselves.

• Fun spin offs. Christmas in the Stars (What do you get a Wookie for Christmas...) Star Wars and other Galactic Funk, among others.
  
• Your personal idea of Star Wars songs. Due to it's timeless themes of love, courage, redemption and more, you may find a perfectly ordinary, unrelated song on the radio that has you thinking of Anakin and Padme's tragic love, Luke's courageous fight for his friends, or the loneliness of Obi-Wan Kenobi in his exile.
  Just check out Youtube and you'll find many, many examples.

Don't forget to check out the music videos in the extras section!