Composer Interview: Pharrell Williams (November 20, 2013)

One of the most influential musical artists of our generation has become more and more involved in the film music world over the past few years. Pharrell Williams co-scored the worldwide sensation Despicable Me, and his themes and songs returned for Despicable Me 2 including the new original song "Happy". Pharrell has also been collaborating heavily with composer Hans Zimmer doing various things such as writing and producing music for the 84th Annual Academy Awards as well as being a featured percussionist on Hans' Man Of Steel score. Pharrell will also be working with Hans on the upcoming The Amazing Spider-Man 2. For this interview we talk about his history as a musician and what led him to be immersed in the world of film music. From what his methods are for scores and songs to his views on the goals of what film scores should do emotionally, Pharrell shares his philosophy and approach. We also discuss the importance of collaboration and how working with composers like Heitor Pereira and Hans Zimmer has been an educational process as he grows as a composer. It was such a great honor to speak to a fantastic musical mind who is bringing a brand new voice to the film music world.

Interview Conducted By:
Kaya Savas

Special Thanks:
Pharrell Williams
Krishel Coultrup
42 West