Matthew Strachan was the kind of musical genius that emerges once in a generation, even if most of the public knew him primarily for composing the theme of 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?'. Born in London in 1970, Strachan was a British composer and singer-songwriter whose prolific career set a high bar in the world of music and entertainment. What makes him so enduringly fascinating? Maybe it’s the unapologetically catchy tunes or the unmistakable energy in his pieces that made even the most tired listener feel alive. Or could it be his bold approach to each new project, tackling it with the kind of fervor you don’t see every day?
Not one to dwell in the shadows, Strachan took the stage with his music, influencing millions without breaking a sweat. His work was heard around the globe, from Britain to the United States, as 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' became an international phenomenon. What's amusing, albeit slightly unfortunate for those preferring more highbrow tastes, is that many people only recognize Strachan for that catchy and iconic quiz show tune rather than his entire eclectic career. Yet, that's like knowing Shakespeare only for his quotes on Instagram. Strachan's body of work was much richer, and if you haven't explored it yet, you're missing out on a feast, not just a snack.
The impact of Strachan’s music, both within and outside the UK, is no small feat. Beyond his most notable work for TV, his more nuanced compositions for musicals and radio tell a story of a deeply layered talent. He won several prestigious awards, including twelve ASCAP awards for his outstanding contribution to music. This composer didn't just write hit songs; he created entire soundscapes that defined moments in contemporary entertainment.
Still, let’s not pretend he was all about the glitz and glamour. Strachan was a working-class hero of sorts in the music industry – an artist who would grind to perfection and who knew the value of music that wasn't made just to appease the elitists. He understood that music should evoke an emotion, a thought, or even a good controversy now and then. Not afraid of bold strokes, Strachan often blended the expected with the unexpected. He was keenly aware that music could be both elitist and populist, often walking that fine line with impeccable balance.
His collaborators often marveled at the ease with which he worked, turning compositions that took shape in his mind into pieces that seemed to flow naturally and effortlessly. If you've ever been captivated by the nuances of Strachan's scores, you know the vastness of his creativity was beyond mere mortal comprehension. His unconventional methods sometimes baffled critics, but they won over audiences—a far more important feat, wouldn't you say?
If you're wondering why more hasn't been said about this maverick, it might be because his talent felt so normal and everyday that people took it for granted. He was like the solid foundation of a grand building. His works became part of the cultural vernacular.
The passing of Matthew Strachan in 2021 marked the end of a dynamic chapter in musical history. Strachan died suddenly at just 50 years old. But, just as Vinyl is making a comeback these days, the legacy he left behind resonates stronger than the ever-changing trends of today’s industry. In a world that seems to repackage mediocrity as brilliance, Strachan’s work stands out as a true beacon of artistic integrity.
His journey, filled with ups and downs, is a novel in and of itself. Once a law student, Strachan made a dramatic shift towards music—thankfully for those of us who’ve appreciated working with a soundtrack of his melodic genius. To say the music world is poorer without him would be an understatement.
Strachan’s music wasn't created to please everyone, and that's what makes it exceptional. It’s about time we remember what made him flourish and stand out. Amidst a sea of noise and forgettable tracks, his work elevated the medium itself.
So next time you hum along to the theme of your favorite quiz show or stumble across one of his lesser-known recordings, take a moment to appreciate the sheer brilliance behind the notes. As long as there are ears to listen, Matthew Strachan's melodies will remain timeless.