On this day May 8, 1982, Chariots of Fire by Vangelis reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed through May 14. The instrumental theme from the 1981 film of the same name became an unexpected chart topper and one of the most recognizable pieces of music of the decade.
The film told the story of British athletes in the 1924 Olympics, but it was Vangelis’ sweeping electronic score that left a lasting impact in pop culture. The theme has since been used in countless slow motion parodies and inspirational moments.
Fun fact: Vangelis composed the entire score using synthesizers, making Chariots of Fire one of the first electronic film scores to achieve mainstream success.
The film told the story of British athletes in the 1924 Olympics, but it was Vangelis’ sweeping electronic score that left a lasting impact in pop culture. The theme has since been used in countless slow motion parodies and inspirational moments.
Fun fact: Vangelis composed the entire score using synthesizers, making Chariots of Fire one of the first electronic film scores to achieve mainstream success.
