Black Panther Score and Composition Insights

Ludwig Goransson shares his journey of composing the score for Black Panther, his first superhero film. He discusses his research in Africa, collaboration with Baaba Maal, and the creation of T'Challa's theme using traditional African instruments. The project was culturally significant and personally transformative, highlighting the importance of African music in the film's score.

What motivated the composer to write music for films?

• A chance to work with Ryan Coogler

• An opportunity to explore various music styles

• A desire to travel to Africa

• A passion for superhero films

Why did the composer decide to travel to Africa?

• To meet Baaba Maal

• To attend a music festival

• To learn a new language

• To conduct research for the Black Panther score

Who is Baaba Maal?

• A music producer

• An African artist

• A film composer

• A director

What inspired the opening scene of the Black Panther score?

• A historical African event

• A famous African painting

• A ceremonial outcall by Baaba Maal

• A traditional African dance

What is unique about the talking drum?

• It can produce different pitches

• It is played with sticks

• It is made of metal

• It is used in jazz music

How did the composer enhance T'Challa's theme?

• By adding a guitar solo

• By incorporating 8o8 beats

• By using a piano melody

• By including a choir

What was added to the score to make it sound more royal?

• Flutes

• Horns

• Percussion

• Strings

What was the composer's main goal in creating the Black Panther score?

• To collaborate with famous musicians

• To recreate the feeling of Baaba Maal's concert

• To win an award

• To experiment with electronic music

What did the composer learn from working with African musicians?

• The value of traditional storytelling

• The importance of electronic music

• The history of African art

• The significance of African dance

What does the composer look forward to after completing the project?

• Writing a book about his experiences

• Collaborating with more directors

• Composing another superhero film

• Returning to Africa for further study