From Local Hero to Robin Hood:
Iconic Movie and TV Scores That Defined a Decade
The 1980s forged a unique musical identity in film and television, moving beyond just big hair and shoulder pads. This decade was a groundbreaking era for scores, where synthesizers took center stage, blending with orchestral arrangements to create unforgettable sonic landscapes that captured the spirit of the times—from epic dramas to gritty crime sagas and futuristic tales. Grab your Walkman, because we’re taking a trip down memory lane with some truly classic instrumental tracks!
Vangelis – “Chariots of Fire” (1981)
When you hear those majestic, pulsing synths, you immediately picture slow-motion runners on a beach. Vangelis’s iconic theme for Chariots of Fire isn’t just a movie score; it’s practically the soundtrack to triumph itself. It perfectly captures the film’s blend of athletic determination and spiritual reflection, earning an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Its sweeping, electronic grandeur became a staple for dramatic moments in pop culture for years to come. It’s the sound of victory, pure and simple.
Ennio Morricone – “Chi Mai” (1981)
While Ennio Morricone’s “Chi Mai” was actually composed in 1971, it truly found its global fame in the 80s. Its hauntingly beautiful, melancholic melody became a huge hit after being featured in the 1981 French film Le Professionnel and, notably, as the theme for the British TV series The Life and Times of David Lloyd George. It perfectly showcased Morricone’s genius for creating unforgettable emotional depth with just a few notes. It’s the kind of instrumental piece that stays with you long after you’ve heard it, proving some melodies don’t need words to tell a powerful story.
Harold Faltermeyer – “Axel F” (1984)
No discussion of 80s instrumentals is complete without Harold Faltermeyer. This guy’s work became synonymous with the decade’s cool, electronic sound. His “Axel F” from Beverly Hills Cop is pure 80s fun. This bouncy, instantly recognizable synth riff is quirky, catchy, and perfectly embodies the film’s comedic action, becoming a massive global hit in its own right. You can practically hear Eddie Murphy’s laugh when it plays!
Jan Hammer – “Miami Vice Theme” (1985) & “Crockett’s Theme” (1986)
This Czech-American composer’s work is absolutely synonymous with the decade’s cool, electronic sound, particularly through his groundbreaking contributions to Miami Vice.
“Miami Vice Theme”: This electrifying, instantly recognizable synth masterpiece kicked off every episode with a jolt of high-octane, neon-soaked energy. It perfectly set the mood for Crockett and Tubbs’ adventures in the sun-drenched, gritty world of Miami, becoming a massive global hit and even topping the Billboard Hot 100!
“Crockett’s Theme”: On the other hand, Hammer also gave us this more laid-back and melancholic track, perfectly capturing the cooler, more reflective side of the show’s hero. Together, these two iconic pieces from Jan Hammer truly defined the sound of 80s cool, complete with pastel suits and fast cars.
Clannad – “Robin (The Hooded Man)” (1984)
For something completely different, Clannad’s theme from the British TV series Robin of Sherwood brought a unique, ethereal blend to the 80s soundscape. Their haunting, atmospheric, and often mystical music, rooted in Celtic traditions but incorporating modern instrumentation, gave the legend of Robin Hood a truly distinctive and memorable feel. It stands out for its beautiful, melancholic melodies and pioneering use of Gaelic vocals in a mainstream production. It’s truly enchanting.
Mark Knopfler – “Going Home: Theme of the Local Hero” (1983)
And speaking of beauty, Mark Knopfler’s “Going Home: Theme of the Local Hero” is an absolute gem. This instrumental, from the film Local Hero, is pure warmth and gentle optimism. With its distinctive guitar melody (played by Knopfler himself, naturally) and soulful saxophone, it evokes a feeling of quiet contentment and a longing for home. It’s less about grand drama and more about those subtle, heartfelt moments that stick with you, perfectly complementing the film’s charming story.
Helen St. John – “Love Theme from Flashdance” (1983)
When you think of the 1983 movie Flashdance, your mind might go straight to those high-energy bangers like “Maniac” and “Flashdance… What a Feeling.” But amidst all that sweat and steel, there’s a truly tender moment with the “Love Theme from Flashdance.” This beautiful, quiet instrumental was performed by Helen St. John and composed by the legendary Giorgio Moroder. It pops up at just the right times, offering a gentle piano melody layered with soft synth sounds, perfectly highlighting the vulnerable side of Alex Owens and capturing the film’s romantic heart.
This collection of tracks really showcases the diverse and innovative instrumental soundscapes that defined the 80s, proving that you don’t always need words to make a powerful impact.