From sweeping epics to intimate moments, Ennio Morricone has created some of the most memorable and inspiring soundtracks in the film industry. Here are the maestro’s Top 15 Greatest Musical Compositions.
It’s a challenge trying to condense a career spanning over 66 years and 200 films into a Top 15 list. Honestly, it started being a Top 10 list. However, I just couldn’t leave out some of the pieces that I grew up with. Yes, Ennio Morricone had that kind of impact on me! Alas, some of Ennio Morricone’s personal favorites may never have hit a chord with global audiences like the hits that follow. However, these Top 15 are the ones that – due to the timing, the overall film story line or the involvement of other talents, took on a timeless quality. Truly remarkable is Morricone’s career which spans over 66-years, 200 films and 70 million records sold worldwide. Over the years, Morricone composed over 500 scores for film and 100 classical pieces.
Additionally, during his long career, Morricone was nominated for the Oscar only 6 times. The nominations came in for “Days of Heaven” (1978), “The Mission” (1986), “The Untouchables” (1987), “Bugsy” (1991) and “Malena” (2000). Finally, he won for his work on Quentin Tarantino’s “The Hateful Eight” (2015).
Morricon’s career spanned over 66-years and 200 films!
15. Malena (2000)
Morricone brings to cinema one of his most romantic scores as we follow young Renato getting increasingly infatuated with the title character Malena Scordia, played by Monica Bellucci. Up until the final scene, Morricone’s music keeps us glued to the screen and culminates in a final sequence that is nothing short of cinema magic as it combines breathtaking cinematography, a deep Italian voice over and Morricone’s unforgettable music.
Watch the “Malena” Trailer
14. “Here’s to you” (Sacco & Vazzetti) (1971)
Sacco and Vanzetti is about two Italian anarchists: Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti and their ultimate execution in the U.S. in 1927. As you will notice, this song only has four lines that are repeated until the end. The piece was originally in French. However, you can find them below, translated to English:
Here’s to you, Nicolas and Bart,
Rest forever here in my heart,
The last and final moments is yours
That agony is your triumph.
Watch the “Sacco & Vazzetti” Trailer
13. Navajo Joe (1966)
Fearless is the word that comes to mind when describing the score for Navajo Joe! There’s nothing quite like this score in cinema. Above all, it reflects Morricone’s style with every measure.
Watch the “Navajo Joe” Trailer
12. “Gabriel’s Oboe” (Mission) (1986)
Morricone’s highly acclaimed soundtrack for “The Mission” (1986) was certified gold by RIAA.
Watch the “Mission” Trailer
11. “Cockeye’s Song” (Once Upon a Time in America) (1984)
Grand sweeping moods and emotions are at the heart of the score for “Once upon a time in America.” In addition to the film’s intrinsic sentimentality, this venture also marks Morricone’s final collaboration with filmmaker Sergio Leone as the director would pass away in 1989.
Watch the “Once Upon a Time in America” Trailer
