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Moroder's 'Chase': From Grim Film to Disco Gold
7 Feb
Summary
- Giorgio Moroder's 'Chase' became a club hit despite its film's grim themes.
- Filmmakers initially considered other artists before selecting Moroder.
- The score's suspenseful elements were inspired by Moroder's 'I Feel Love'.
Giorgio Moroder's 1978 soundtrack for *Midnight Express* turned a grim story into a disco phenomenon. The film, based on Billy Hayes' memoir of a hashish smuggler's imprisonment in Turkey, featured the track "Chase."
Moroder was not the filmmakers' first choice; they had considered Electric Light Orchestra and Vangelis. Ultimately, Casablanca Records suggested Moroder, known for his work with Donna Summer.
Director Alan Parker asked Moroder for a synthesized score, specifically requesting suspenseful elements similar to "I Feel Love" for escape scenes. "Chase" kicks in as Hayes attempts to escape, its synthesized arpeggios providing a driving, suspenseful backdrop.
Moroder's Musicland Studios had already produced hits for major artists, but this marked his first film score. "Chase" became an iconic club track, elevating the film's intense moments.
