He helped usher in a new era of movie scores with his 80’s sounds. He gave a voice to both Axel Foley and Fletch. This time, we’ll be listening to the music of Harold Faltermeyer, on FrameTrax.

Faltermeyer is best known for composing the “Axel F” theme for the feature film Beverly Hills Cop, an influential synth-pop hit in the 1980s. He also composed the “Top Gun Anthem” for the feature film Top Gun, along with its score, and the music for the Chevy Chase Fletch feature films, Fletch and Fletch Lives. The Beverly Hills Cop and Top Gun projects earned him two Grammy Awards: the first in 1986 for Best Album of original score written for a motion picture or television special, as a co-writer of the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack; and the second in 1987 for Best Pop Instrumental Performance with guitarist Steve Stevens for “Top Gun Anthem” from the Top Gun soundtrack.

As a session musician, arranger and producer, Faltermeyer has worked with numerous international pop stars including Donna Summer, Amanda Lear, Patti LaBelle, Barbra Streisand, Glenn Frey, Blondie, Laura Branigan, La Toya Jackson, Billy Idol, Jennifer Rush, Bonnie Tyler and Pet Shop Boys.

Track Listings

Axel F

Fletch

Wimbledown

Kuffs

Adrianos

Diggin’ In

The Race is On

Running Man

Tango and Cash

Shakedown

Exotic Skates

Racetrack

Cop Out

Top Gun