La La Land (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

"La La Land," composed by Justin Hurwitz, is the acclaimed soundtrack for the 2016 film of the same name, directed by Damien Chazelle. The film itself, a modern-day musical set in Los Angeles, stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, and its soundtrack has been instrumental in bringing the film's vibrant world to life.

One interesting fact about this soundtrack is that it won two Academy Awards in 2017: Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “City of Stars.” Justin Hurwitz’s collaboration with Chazelle dates back to their days at Harvard, where they first started working together on student projects. This long-standing creative partnership certainly paid off with "La La Land," as the score has been praised for its ability to blend classical Hollywood musical style with a contemporary twist.

The music of "La La Land" features a recurring motif that acts almost like a character within the film, weaving through various scenes to underscore the divergent paths and emotional journeys of the two leads. The piece “Mia & Sebastian’s Theme,” a central melody in the film, is particularly celebrated for its evocative and memorable quality.

A charming tidbit about the album is that Ryan Gosling, who plays Sebastian, a jazz musician, learned to play the piano specifically for his role in the film. All of the piano sequences featuring his character were recorded using his own performances, showcasing not only Hurwitz's engaging score but Gosling’s dedication and versatility.

The album’s impact extended beyond the film, resonating with audiences and musicians alike, leading to numerous covers and performances around the world. Hurwitz’s sophisticated yet accessible compositions have solidified "La La Land" as a beloved and influential piece in contemporary film music.