If you’re a fan of the 1983 comedy film, National Lampoon’s Vacation, then you have probably found yourself humming along to the catchy tunes of its soundtrack. But who wrote the music for this hilarious classic? Let’s find out!
The Composer
The soundtrack for National Lampoon’s Vacation was composed by Ralph Burns, an American composer, arranger, and conductor. He was born on June 29, 1922, and died on November 21, 2001. Burns was a renowned jazz musician and worked with several famous artists such as Woody Herman and Benny Goodman.
The Soundtrack
The soundtrack for National Lampoon’s Vacation features a mix of original music by Ralph Burns and popular songs from the 60s and 70s. The soundtrack includes popular hits such as “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham and “I’m Alright” by Kenny Loggins.
Original Music
Ralph Burns composed several original pieces for the movie’s score. The main theme song for National Lampoon’s Vacation is called “The Griswold Family Vacation.” It is a fun and upbeat tune that captures the essence of the movie perfectly.
Another notable piece from the original score is “Dancing Across the USA.” This song plays during the iconic scene where Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) dances with Christie Brinkley on the beach.
Popular Songs
In addition to Ralph Burns’ original compositions, the soundtrack also features some popular songs from the 60s and 70s. These songs were carefully selected to fit in with the movie’s storyline and add an extra layer of humor to certain scenes.
One of these songs is “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham. This song plays during several scenes in the movie but is most memorable during the opening credits sequence where the Griswold family sets off on their road trip.
Another popular song featured in the movie is “I’m Alright” by Kenny Loggins. This song plays during the scene where Clark Griswold plays golf with a group of snobbish country club members.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the music for National Lampoon’s Vacation was composed by Ralph Burns and features a mix of original compositions and popular songs from the 60s and 70s. The soundtrack perfectly captures the humor and essence of this classic comedy film. So, next time you find yourself humming along to “Holiday Road,” you’ll know who to thank for this catchy tune!