All Songs Considered

Is John Williams the GOAT?

16 snips
Jul 13, 2025
Mark Rivers, a producer for All Things Considered, joins host Scott Detrow to dive deep into the iconic legacy of John Williams. They discuss how Williams' memorable scores, from Jurassic Park to Superman, shape cinematic experiences. The conversation touches on Williams' emotional resonance and his status as a potential greatest of all time. Personal anecdotes reveal the lasting connections people have with his music, along with the challenges new composers face in a shifting film landscape.
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INSIGHT

John Williams' Iconic Musical Impact

  • John Williams' music is instantly recognizable and transports listeners to iconic movie moments.
  • His films' themes are deeply embedded in popular culture, becoming synonymous with classic cinema.
INSIGHT

Williams' Borrowing and Score Range

  • John Williams' most famous scores are deeply beloved but borrow from classical composers.
  • His output includes a handful of legendary scores among many other, less remarkable works.
INSIGHT

Timelessness of Williams' Music

  • John Williams' music feels classical and timeless, not locked to any decade.
  • This timelessness helps his compositions remain popular in concert venues decades later.
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