Film 'Top Gun' Theme Composer Tom Whitlock Passes Away at 68

by Kim Heeyun

Published 24 Feb.2023 13:57(KST)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Tom Whitley, who composed the theme song "Take My Breath Away" for the movie "Top Gun," has passed away at the age of 68.

Tom Whittlock, who composed the theme song "Take My Breath Away" for the movie 'Top Gun'. Photo by AP

Foreign media such as The New York Times and The Hollywood Reporter reported on the 18th that Tom Whitley died in Gallatin, Tennessee. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Born on February 20, 1954, in Springfield, Missouri, Whitley gained recognition through collaboration with Italian composer Giorgio Moroder.

Moroder, who won an Oscar for the theme songs of Midnight Express and Flashdance, commissioned the then-unknown Whitley to work on four songs to be included in the movie "Top Gun," marking the beginning of their partnership. The resulting "Take My Breath Away" became an immortal classic, topping the charts in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

The accompanying track "Danger Zone" also became a popular hit. This song was included in the sequel "Top Gun: Maverick," released last year, receiving support from fans.

Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whittlelock. Photo by AP=Yonhap

Based on the success of Top Gun, Whitley and Moroder went on to collaborate on soundtracks for over 20 films, including Beverly Hills Cop II, Rambo III, and My Heart Is That Eternal Rose, earning fame as a duo.

Notably, among their works was the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics theme song "Son-e Sonjapgo" (Hand in Hand), which made them known to domestic fans. The renowned duo also co-composed the 1990 FIFA World Cup theme "To Be Number One."

Whitley also produced various film scores as a solo artist. Additionally, he left behind more than 100 songs, including works for Ray Charles, Bonnie Tyler, and Graham Nash.