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{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name         = Brian Tyler
| name = Brian Tyler
| birth_name   = Brian Theodore Tyler
| birth_name = Brian Theodore Tyler
| birth_date   = {{Birth date and age|1972|5|8}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1972|5|8}}
| birth_place = [[Orange County, California]], U.S.
| birth_place = [[Orange County, California]], U.S.
| nationality = American
| nationality = American
| occupation   = {{flatlist|
| occupation = {{flatlist|Composer, conductor, arranger, multi-instrumentalist}}
* Composer
| known_for = Film, television, and video game scores; ''Fast & Furious'' franchise; Marvel Cinematic Universe films; ''Yellowstone'' television series; Formula One theme
* Conductor
| awards = IFMCA Composer of the Year (2014)
* Arranger
| website = {{URL|http://briantyler.com/}}
* Multi-instrumentalist
}}
| known_for   = Film, television, and video game scores
| awards       = IFMCA Composer of the Year (2014)
| website     = {{URL|http://briantyler.com/}}
}}
}}


'''Brian Theodore Tyler''' (born May 8, 1972) is an American composer, conductor, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist whose work has shaped the sound of some of the most commercially successful film franchises of the 21st century. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Tyler has composed scores for seven installments of the ''[[Fast & Furious]]'' franchise, the first three films in ''[[The Expendables (film series)|The Expendables]]'' series, multiple entries in the ''[[Rambo (franchise)|Rambo]]'', ''[[Final Destination]]'', ''[[Scream (franchise)|Scream]]'', and ''[[Now You See Me (franchise)|Now You See Me]]'' franchises, and three films within the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]]: ''[[Iron Man 3]]'', ''[[Thor: The Dark World]]'', and ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]''. He is also known for composing the current arrangement of the [[Universal Pictures]] logo fanfare, the [[Formula One]] theme, and the television scores for ''[[Yellowstone (TV series)|Yellowstone]]'', ''[[1883 (TV series)|1883]]'', and ''[[1923 (TV series)|1923]]''. As of November 2017, films scored by Tyler had grossed over $12 billion worldwide, placing him among the top ten highest-grossing film composers of all time.<ref>{{cite web |title=Brian Tyler Movie Box Office Results |url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Composer&id=briantyler.htm |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> He won the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award in 2014 and is a member of the music branch of the [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]].<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2010-06-25 |title=Academy Invites New Members Including Bono, Gabourey Sidibe |url=http://www.ew.com/article/2010/06/25/academy-new-members-bono-gabourey-sidibe |work=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Brian Theodore Tyler (born May 8, 1972) is an American composer, conductor, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist whose work spans feature films, television series, and video games. Over a career lasting more than two decades, Tyler has composed the scores for seven installments of the ''[[Fast & Furious]]'' franchise, multiple entries in the ''[[Rambo]]'', ''[[The Expendables]]'', ''[[Final Destination]]'', ''[[Now You See Me]]'', and ''[[Scream (franchise)|Scream]]'' film series, as well as Marvel Cinematic Universe films including ''[[Iron Man 3]]'', ''[[Thor: The Dark World]]'', and ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]''.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web |title=Brian Tyler – Box Office Mojo |url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Composer&id=briantyler.htm |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Beyond the cinema, he composed the Formula One theme, the NFL ''Sunday Countdown'' theme for ESPN, and the scores for the Taylor Sheridan television universe including ''[[Yellowstone (TV series)|Yellowstone]]'', ''[[1883 (TV series)|1883]]'', and ''[[1923 (TV series)|1923]]''. His composition for ''Last Call'' earned him the first of three Emmy nominations, and his films have collectively grossed over $12 billion worldwide, placing him among the highest-grossing film composers in history.<ref name="boxoffice" /> In 2014, he received the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award.<ref name="ifmca2014">{{cite web |title=IFMCA Winners 2013 |url=http://filmmusiccritics.org/2014/02/ifmca-winners-2013/ |publisher=International Film Music Critics Association |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


== Early Life ==
== Early Life ==


Brian Theodore Tyler was born on May 8, 1972, in [[Orange County, California]]. From an early age, Tyler demonstrated an aptitude for music, learning to play multiple instruments and developing an interest in both classical and contemporary musical forms. His upbringing in Southern California placed him in proximity to the entertainment industry, and he grew up absorbing the sounds of film scores that would later influence his compositional style.<ref name="8dio">{{cite web |title=Interview with Brian Tyler |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416182503/http://8dio.com/blog/interview-with-brian-tyler/ |publisher=8Dio |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Brian Theodore Tyler was born on May 8, 1972, in [[Orange County, California]].<ref name="8dio">{{cite web |title=Interview with Brian Tyler |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416182503/http://8dio.com/blog/interview-with-brian-tyler/ |publisher=8Dio |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> He grew up in a musical environment and developed an interest in music at an early age. Tyler became proficient on multiple instruments, a skill set that would later distinguish him among Hollywood composers for his ability to perform many of the parts on his own scores rather than relying entirely on session musicians.<ref name="corduroy">{{cite web |title=Interview: Brian Tyler |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416230743/http://www.corduroymag.com/music/interview-brian-tyler/ |publisher=Corduroy Magazine |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


Tyler's musical education was broad, encompassing not only classical training but also experience with a range of genres including rock, electronic music, and world music. He became proficient as a multi-instrumentalist, skills that would later distinguish his approach to film scoring. His ability to play and record multiple instruments himself allowed him to maintain a hands-on creative process throughout his career, often performing elements of his own scores rather than relying entirely on session musicians.<ref name="corduroy">{{cite web |title=Interview: Brian Tyler |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416230743/http://www.corduroymag.com/music/interview-brian-tyler/ |publisher=Corduroy Magazine |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Tyler's early musical interests were broad, encompassing classical composition, rock, and electronic music. His multi-instrumentalist abilities—spanning keyboards, guitar, drums, and various orchestral instruments—gave him an unusually hands-on approach to scoring that would become a hallmark of his professional career.<ref name="8dio" /> Growing up in Southern California, Tyler was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age and gravitated toward the intersection of music and visual storytelling.


Tyler has cited a wide range of musical influences, spanning from classical composers to contemporary film scoring legends. His early experiences as a performer and composer laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually encompass film, television, video games, and sports entertainment music. His formative years were marked by a drive to understand both the technical and emotional dimensions of music, an approach that informed his later ability to adapt his compositional voice to a diverse array of projects and genres.<ref name="8dio" />
== Career ==


== Career ==
=== Early Career and Breakthrough ===


=== Early Work and Breakthrough ===
Tyler began his career in film scoring in the late 1990s. One of his earliest notable credits was the independent film ''[[Six-String Samurai]]'' (1998), a post-apocalyptic action comedy for which he composed the score.<ref>{{cite web |title=Brian Tyler – Six-String Samurai |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051108021842/http://www.sixstringsamurai.com/tyler.html |publisher=Six-String Samurai |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The film, though modest in its theatrical release, showcased Tyler's ability to blend genres musically—combining rock, orchestral, and experimental elements in ways that caught the attention of filmmakers working in action and genre cinema.


Tyler began his career in film scoring in the late 1990s. One of his early projects was the score for ''[[Six-String Samurai]]'', a 1998 independent film that helped establish his reputation within the film music community.<ref>{{cite web |title=Six-String Samurai – Brian Tyler |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051108021842/http://www.sixstringsamurai.com/tyler.html |publisher=Six-String Samurai Official Site |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The film, a low-budget post-apocalyptic action comedy, gave Tyler the opportunity to demonstrate his range, blending rock-oriented compositions with cinematic orchestration. His work on this project attracted notice and led to further opportunities within the film industry.
Throughout the early 2000s, Tyler steadily built his filmography, taking on a variety of projects across different genres. His versatility and willingness to work across action, horror, thriller, and drama categories allowed him to accumulate credits rapidly while developing a distinctive compositional voice characterized by propulsive rhythms, sweeping orchestral themes, and the integration of electronic elements with traditional orchestration.<ref name="corduroy" />


In the years that followed, Tyler steadily built a body of work across a variety of genres, scoring action films, thrillers, dramas, and horror projects. His composition for the film ''Last Call'' earned him his first [[Primetime Emmy Award]] nomination and a gold record, marking a significant early milestone in his career.<ref>{{cite news |date=2014-07-10 |title=2014 Emmy Nominations |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/11/arts/television/2014-emmy-nominations-game-of-thrones-true-detective-among-the-honored.html?_r=0 |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> This recognition helped cement Tyler's standing as one of the rising composers in Hollywood and opened doors to higher-profile projects.
=== Action Franchise Work ===


=== Major Film Franchise Work ===
Tyler's career trajectory shifted significantly when he became associated with several of Hollywood's most prominent action franchises. He scored seven installments of the ''Fast & Furious'' franchise, establishing recurring musical themes that became closely identified with the series.<ref name="boxoffice" /> This long-running association with one of the highest-grossing film franchises in history substantially raised Tyler's profile within the industry and contributed significantly to the cumulative box office total of his scored films.


Tyler's career reached a new level of prominence through his association with several major film franchises. He scored seven installments of the ''Fast & Furious'' franchise, contributing to one of the most commercially successful film series in cinema history. His scores for these films combined driving percussive rhythms, electronic elements, and orchestral passages that became closely associated with the franchise's identity.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web |title=Brian Tyler Movie Box Office Results |url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Composer&id=briantyler.htm |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
He also composed the scores for the fourth and fifth films of the ''Rambo'' franchise, continuing the musical legacy of a series that had been scored by composer [[Jerry Goldsmith]] in its earlier installments. Tyler brought a contemporary sensibility to the franchise while maintaining the muscular, militaristic tone associated with the series.


He composed scores for the fourth and fifth films in the ''Rambo'' franchise, continuing the musical legacy of one of action cinema's most enduring series. Tyler also scored the fourth and fifth films in the ''Final Destination'' franchise, as well as the fifth and sixth entries in the ''Scream'' franchise. His work on ''[[Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem]]'' (2007) and ''[[Eagle Eye]]'' (2008) further demonstrated his versatility in the action and thriller genres.
Tyler scored all three films of ''The Expendables'' franchise, working alongside an ensemble cast of action stars. The scores for these films required a blend of nostalgic action-movie bombast and modern production techniques, reflecting the franchise's positioning as both homage to and continuation of 1980s action cinema.


Tyler composed scores for the first three films in ''The Expendables'' series, working alongside an ensemble cast of action stars. These scores required a balance between nostalgic homage to classic action cinema and contemporary scoring techniques. His score for ''[[Crazy Rich Asians]]'' (2018) represented a departure into romantic comedy-drama, showing his adaptability across different cinematic tones and settings.
In the horror genre, Tyler composed the scores for the fourth and fifth installments of the ''Final Destination'' franchise, as well as the fifth and sixth entries in the ''Scream'' franchise. His horror work demonstrated his range, requiring a different set of compositional tools—tension-building, dissonance, and carefully timed musical stings—compared to his action scores.


He scored ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Movie]]'' (2023) and was announced as the composer for its sequel, ''The Super Mario Galaxy Movie'', extending his franchise work into the animated film domain.
He additionally scored ''[[Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem]]'' (2007) and ''[[Eagle Eye]]'' (2008), further cementing his reputation as a reliable composer for large-scale studio productions with significant visual effects and action sequences.<ref name="boxoffice" />


=== Marvel Cinematic Universe ===
=== Marvel Cinematic Universe ===


Tyler's engagement with the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] (MCU) represented one of the highest-profile phases of his career. He composed the score for ''[[Iron Man 3]]'' (2013), the third installment in the Iron Man series starring [[Robert Downey Jr.]] This was followed by ''[[Thor: The Dark World]]'' (2013), the second film in the Thor series. Tyler also contributed to ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]'' (2015), collaborating with composer [[Danny Elfman]] on the score for one of the MCU's tentpole ensemble films.
Tyler's involvement with the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] represented a significant milestone in his career. He composed the score for ''[[Iron Man 3]]'' (2013), the first sequel in the ''Iron Man'' sub-franchise to feature a new composer following [[Rami Malek]]'s work on the first two films. Tyler's score for the film blended heroic orchestral themes with the contemporary sensibility that had become his trademark.
 
He followed ''Iron Man 3'' with the score for ''[[Thor: The Dark World]]'' (2013), for which he composed both the film's score and the Marvel Studios logo fanfare that debuted with the film and was used from 2013 through 2016.<ref name="ifmca2014" /> The Marvel Studios logo composition became one of Tyler's most widely heard pieces of music, playing before every Marvel film released during that period and becoming instantly recognizable to audiences worldwide.


In addition to his work on individual MCU films, Tyler composed the Marvel Studios logo fanfare that was used from 2013 to 2016, debuting with ''Thor: The Dark World''. This brief but iconic musical cue was heard by audiences worldwide at the opening of each Marvel Studios release during that period, significantly increasing Tyler's visibility and cultural footprint within the broader entertainment industry.
Tyler also contributed to the score of ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]'' (2015), sharing composing duties with [[Danny Elfman]]. The collaboration between the two composers on one of Marvel's largest productions reflected the scale and complexity of the film's musical requirements.


=== Universal Pictures Fanfare ===
=== Universal Pictures Fanfare ===


In 2012, Tyler created the current arrangement of the [[Universal Pictures]] logo fanfare, building upon the original theme composed by [[Jerry Goldsmith]]. This new arrangement debuted with the release of ''[[The Lorax (film)|The Lorax]]'' in celebration of Universal Pictures' 100th anniversary. The fanfare has been heard before every Universal Pictures release since its introduction, making it one of the most frequently heard pieces of music in cinema. Tyler's arrangement modernized the classic theme while preserving its recognizable identity, and it remains in use.
In 2012, Tyler created a new arrangement of the [[Universal Pictures]] logo fanfare, which had originally been composed by [[Jerry Goldsmith]]. The updated fanfare debuted with ''[[The Lorax (film)|The Lorax]]'' (2012) as part of Universal Pictures' celebration of its 100th anniversary. This arrangement became the standard version of the fanfare used before Universal releases, making it one of the most frequently heard pieces of film music in the world and a notable element of Tyler's legacy as a composer whose work extends beyond individual film scores to institutional branding.<ref name="boxoffice" />


=== Television Work ===
=== Television Work ===


Tyler expanded his reach into television scoring, most notably through his work on the ''[[Yellowstone (TV series)|Yellowstone]]'' universe of series. He composed scores for ''Yellowstone'', ''[[1883 (TV series)|1883]]'', and ''[[1923 (TV series)|1923]]'', all in collaboration with Breton Vivian. The ''Yellowstone'' franchise, created by [[Taylor Sheridan]], became one of the most-watched television properties in the United States, and Tyler's music contributed to its sweeping, Western-inflected atmosphere.
Tyler expanded his work into television scoring, most notably through his collaboration with creator [[Taylor Sheridan]] on the ''Yellowstone'' universe of series. He composed the music for ''[[Yellowstone (TV series)|Yellowstone]]'', the flagship series starring [[Kevin Costner]], as well as its prequel series ''[[1883 (TV series)|1883]]'' and ''[[1923 (TV series)|1923]]''. For these television projects, Tyler worked alongside collaborator Breton Vivian. The ''Yellowstone'' franchise became one of the most-watched properties on cable television, and Tyler's scores—blending Americana, orchestral drama, and evocative landscape-suggesting music—became closely identified with the shows' identity.


His television work earned him three [[Primetime Emmy Award]] nominations over the course of his career, including the nomination for ''Last Call'' that was among his earliest professional honors.
His composition for the television film ''Last Call'' earned Tyler the first of his three Emmy nominations, marking recognition from the television industry for his work in that medium.<ref>{{cite news |title=2014 Emmy Nominations |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/11/arts/television/2014-emmy-nominations-game-of-thrones-true-detective-among-the-honored.html?_r=0 |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The Emmy nominations further established Tyler as a cross-platform composer comfortable working at the highest levels of both film and television production.


=== Sports and Event Music ===
=== Sports and Event Music ===


Beyond film and television, Tyler composed music for major sporting events and organizations. He created the NFL Sunday Countdown theme for [[ESPN]], providing the musical backdrop for one of American football's premier pregame programs. He also composed the official [[Formula One]] theme, which is additionally used in [[Formula 2]] and [[Formula 3]] broadcasts, giving his music a global audience among motorsport fans. Tyler composed the anthem for the [[Esports World Cup]], reflecting the expanding role of composed music in competitive gaming events.
Beyond film and television, Tyler composed the NFL ''Sunday Countdown'' theme for [[ESPN]], one of the most prominent sports programming themes on American television. He also composed the official theme for [[Formula One]], which is additionally used in [[Formula 2]] and [[Formula 3]] racing broadcasts. The Formula One theme, with its dramatic orchestral flourishes and driving rhythmic energy, became an integral part of the sport's global broadcast presentation.
 
Tyler additionally composed the anthem for the [[Esports World Cup]], reflecting the expansion of his work into the growing esports entertainment sector. These commissions in sports and event music demonstrated Tyler's ability to create concise, impactful musical identities for major global brands and organizations.
 
=== ''The Super Mario Bros. Movie'' ===
 
Tyler composed the score for ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Movie]]'' (2023), the animated film produced by [[Illumination (company)|Illumination]] and [[Nintendo]]. The film became a massive commercial success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films ever made.<ref name="boxoffice" /> Tyler's score for the film incorporated and adapted themes from the ''Super Mario'' video game series while creating original orchestral compositions to support the narrative. He was subsequently engaged to score the sequel, ''The Super Mario Galaxy Movie''.


=== Scoring ''Nuremberg'' ===
=== ''Crazy Rich Asians'' and Dramatic Work ===


In 2025 and 2026, Tyler scored ''Nuremberg'', a historical drama centered on the post–World War II [[Nuremberg trials]]. In an interview with Gold Derby, Tyler discussed the challenges of scoring the film, which required a compositional approach that conveyed both the gravity of the historical subject matter and the dramatic tension of the courtroom proceedings. During the production of the score, Tyler survived a life-threatening medical emergency, an experience he spoke about publicly in the same interview.<ref>{{cite web |title=Composer Brian Tyler on scoring 'Nuremberg' and surviving a life-threatening medical emergency |url=https://www.goldderby.com/film/2026/nuremberg-composer-brian-tyler-oscar-shortlist-best-score/ |publisher=Gold Derby |date=2026 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The film's score was included on the [[Academy Award for Best Original Score|Oscar shortlist for Best Original Score]].
Tyler's score for ''[[Crazy Rich Asians]]'' (2018) demonstrated his versatility in a different register, composing for a romantic comedy-drama rather than his more typical action or genre fare. The film, based on [[Kevin Kwan]]'s novel, was a critical and commercial success and represented a cultural milestone as the first major studio film with an all-Asian cast since ''[[The Joy Luck Club (film)|The Joy Luck Club]]'' (1993).<ref name="boxoffice" />


=== Electronic Music ===
=== ''Now You See Me'' Franchise ===
 
Tyler scored the ''Now You See Me'' franchise, composing music for the heist thriller films featuring ensemble casts. The scores required a playful yet suspenseful musical approach befitting films centered on illusionists and elaborate deceptions.
 
=== ''Nuremberg'' ===
 
In 2025–2026, Tyler scored ''Nuremberg'', a historical drama centered on the landmark post–World War II Nuremberg trials. The project was notable both for its serious subject matter and for a personal challenge Tyler faced during its production: he experienced a life-threatening medical emergency while in the final stages of scoring the film.<ref>{{cite web |title=Composer Brian Tyler on scoring 'Nuremberg' and surviving a life-threatening medical emergency |url=https://www.goldderby.com/film/2026/nuremberg-composer-brian-tyler-oscar-shortlist-best-score/ |publisher=Gold Derby |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Despite this setback, Tyler completed the score, which was subsequently shortlisted for consideration in the Best Original Score category at the Academy Awards.


Tyler has also pursued electronic music under the alias "Are We Dreaming," representing a creative outlet distinct from his orchestral and cinematic work. His involvement in electronic music reflects his broader interest in diverse musical genres and production techniques. Collaborations within this space have included work alongside artists from the electronic dance music (EDM) community.<ref>{{cite web |title=EDM Exclusive: Tom Morello Joins Forces with Madsonik, Kill the Noise on 'Divebomb' |url=http://www.youredm.com/2017/01/19/edm-exclusive-tom-morello-joins-forces-madsonik-kill-noise-divebomb/ |publisher=Your EDM |date=2017-01-19 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
=== ''xXx: Return of Xander Cage'' and Other Projects ===


=== Scoring for Video Games ===
Tyler scored ''[[xXx: Return of Xander Cage]]'' (2017), the third installment in the ''xXx'' franchise starring [[Vin Diesel]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Brian Tyler Scoring 'xXx: Return of Xander Cage' |url=http://filmmusicreporter.com/2016/10/12/brian-tyler-scoring-xxx-return-of-xander-cage/ |publisher=Film Music Reporter |date=2016-10-12 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His ongoing collaboration with Diesel, who also starred in the ''Fast & Furious'' franchise, reflected the long-standing professional relationships Tyler built with actors and filmmakers throughout his career.


In addition to his work in film and television, Tyler has composed music for video games, a medium that demands extended and adaptive musical compositions. His experience across film, television, sports, and gaming has made him one of the most prolific and genre-diverse composers working in entertainment media.
=== Electronic Music ===
 
Outside of his film and television work, Tyler has pursued electronic music under the alias "Are We Dreaming," exploring a different creative outlet from his orchestral and hybrid scoring work. This project has involved collaborations with other musicians, including work with [[Tom Morello]], [[Kill the Noise]], and Madsonik.<ref>{{cite web |title=Tom Morello Joins Forces with Madsonik & Kill the Noise – 'Divebomb' |url=http://www.youredm.com/2017/01/19/edm-exclusive-tom-morello-joins-forces-madsonik-kill-noise-divebomb/ |publisher=Your EDM |date=2017-01-19 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


== Recognition ==
== Recognition ==


Tyler has received numerous accolades over the course of his career. In 2014, he won the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award for his body of work in 2013, which included scores for ''Iron Man 3'', ''Thor: The Dark World'', and other projects.<ref>{{cite web |title=IFMCA Winners 2013 |url=http://filmmusiccritics.org/2014/02/ifmca-winners-2013/ |publisher=International Film Music Critics Association |date=2014-02 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> He had previously been recognized by the IFMCA with a nomination for his 2009 work as well.<ref>{{cite web |title=IFMCA Announces Winners of 2009 Awards |url=http://filmmusiccritics.org/2010/03/ifmca-announces-winners-of-2009-awards/ |publisher=International Film Music Critics Association |date=2010-03 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Tyler received the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award for 2013, announced in February 2014.<ref name="ifmca2014" /> He also received an IFMCA award nomination in 2009.<ref>{{cite web |title=IFMCA Announces Winners of 2009 Awards |url=http://filmmusiccritics.org/2010/03/ifmca-announces-winners-of-2009-awards/ |publisher=International Film Music Critics Association |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


Tyler received three [[Primetime Emmy Award]] nominations during his career. His score for ''Nuremberg'' was included on the Oscar shortlist for Best Original Score, bringing him closer to recognition from the [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]], of which he has been a member of the music branch since 2010.<ref>{{cite news |date=2010-06-25 |title=Academy Invites New Members Including Bono, Gabourey Sidibe |url=http://www.ew.com/article/2010/06/25/academy-new-members-bono-gabourey-sidibe |work=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
His work earned him three Emmy nominations over the course of his career, with the first coming for his composition for the television film ''Last Call''. The Emmy recognition placed Tyler among the relatively small number of composers who have been nominated for major awards in both the film and television categories.


He was also nominated for a [[Saturn Award]] for his film work, reflecting recognition from the science fiction, fantasy, and horror film community.<ref>{{cite news |date=2014 |title=Gravity, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Lead Saturn Awards Nominations |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/gravity-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-lead-saturn-awards-noms-1201120744/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Tyler earned a gold record for his work, and his compositional achievements led to his induction into the music branch of the [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Academy Invites New Members Including Bono, Gabourey Sidibe |url=http://www.ew.com/article/2010/06/25/academy-new-members-bono-gabourey-sidibe |work=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Membership in the Academy's music branch signifies peer recognition within the film industry and makes Tyler eligible to vote on the Academy Award for Best Original Score.


His composition work has earned him a gold record, and as of November 2017, films featuring his scores had collectively grossed over $12 billion at the worldwide box office, placing Tyler among the top ten highest-grossing film composers in history.<ref name="boxoffice" />
He also received a Saturn Award nomination, with his work recognized alongside scores for major science fiction and fantasy productions.<ref>{{cite news |title=Gravity, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Lead Saturn Awards Noms |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/gravity-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-lead-saturn-awards-noms-1201120744/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
 
As of November 2017, the cumulative worldwide box office gross of films scored by Tyler exceeded $12 billion, placing him in the top ten highest-grossing film composers of all time by that measure.<ref name="boxoffice" /> This figure has continued to grow with subsequent releases including ''The Super Mario Bros. Movie'' and entries in the ''Scream'' and ''Fast & Furious'' franchises.


== Legacy ==
== Legacy ==


Brian Tyler's body of work, spanning more than two decades and encompassing hundreds of projects across film, television, video games, and live events, has established him as one of the most prolific composers in contemporary entertainment media. His scores for franchise films within the ''Fast & Furious'', ''Expendables'', ''Rambo'', ''Final Destination'', ''Scream'', and Marvel Cinematic Universe series have reached audiences numbering in the billions globally.
Tyler's body of work is notable for its volume, commercial impact, and stylistic range. Having scored films across the action, horror, comedy, drama, animation, and science fiction genres, as well as major television series, sports themes, and video games, Tyler has established himself as one of the most prolific and commercially significant film composers of the early 21st century.
 
His creation of the Universal Pictures 100th anniversary fanfare and the 2013–2016 Marvel Studios logo music means that Tyler's compositions have been heard by billions of people worldwide in contexts extending far beyond individual film scores. The Formula One theme similarly reaches a global audience numbering in the hundreds of millions each racing season, making Tyler one of the most widely heard composers working today.


His arrangement of the Universal Pictures logo fanfare and the Marvel Studios logo fanfare (2013–2016) placed his music at the very opening of films seen by worldwide audiences, giving his compositions a cultural ubiquity that few film composers achieve. The Formula One theme, heard during every race broadcast of the premier motorsport series, has similarly given his work a recurring global platform.
Tyler's approach to scoring—characterized by his multi-instrumentalist abilities and willingness to perform many parts himself—has been noted as distinctive within the film composing community. His integration of electronic music elements with traditional orchestral scoring, and his pursuit of electronic music as "Are We Dreaming," reflects a compositional philosophy that embraces multiple musical traditions and production approaches.<ref name="8dio" /><ref name="corduroy" />


Tyler's ability to move between genres—from action blockbusters and horror sequels to animated films, romantic comedies, prestige historical dramas, and sports entertainment—has set him apart as a versatile figure in the film music world. His multi-instrumentalist skills and willingness to engage with electronic music production alongside traditional orchestral scoring reflect a compositional approach that bridges multiple musical traditions.
His long-running associations with specific franchises—seven ''Fast & Furious'' films, three ''Expendables'' films, multiple ''Scream'' and ''Final Destination'' entries—demonstrate the collaborative relationships Tyler has maintained with filmmakers and studios over extended periods. These franchise associations have also contributed to the thematic continuity of major film series, with Tyler's recurring musical motifs providing sonic identity across multiple installments.


His induction into the music branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and his IFMCA Composer of the Year award affirm his standing within the professional film music community. Tyler's continued engagement with high-profile projects, including the scoring of ''Nuremberg'' and upcoming animated sequels, indicates an ongoing trajectory of significant creative output.<ref>{{cite web |title=Composer Brian Tyler on scoring 'Nuremberg' and surviving a life-threatening medical emergency |url=https://www.goldderby.com/film/2026/nuremberg-composer-brian-tyler-oscar-shortlist-best-score/ |publisher=Gold Derby |date=2026 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
The breadth of Tyler's work across the Taylor Sheridan television universe, major animated features, Marvel Cinematic Universe entries, and global sports branding positions him as a composer whose influence extends across multiple entertainment sectors rather than being confined to a single medium or genre.


== References ==
== References ==
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Brian Tyler
BornBrian Theodore Tyler
8 5, 1972
BirthplaceOrange County, California, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
OccupationTemplate:Flatlist
Known forFilm, television, and video game scores; Fast & Furious franchise; Marvel Cinematic Universe films; Yellowstone television series; Formula One theme
AwardsIFMCA Composer of the Year (2014)
Website[http://briantyler.com/ Official site]

Brian Theodore Tyler (born May 8, 1972) is an American composer, conductor, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist whose work spans feature films, television series, and video games. Over a career lasting more than two decades, Tyler has composed the scores for seven installments of the Fast & Furious franchise, multiple entries in the Rambo, The Expendables, Final Destination, Now You See Me, and Scream film series, as well as Marvel Cinematic Universe films including Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, and Avengers: Age of Ultron.[1] Beyond the cinema, he composed the Formula One theme, the NFL Sunday Countdown theme for ESPN, and the scores for the Taylor Sheridan television universe including Yellowstone, 1883, and 1923. His composition for Last Call earned him the first of three Emmy nominations, and his films have collectively grossed over $12 billion worldwide, placing him among the highest-grossing film composers in history.[1] In 2014, he received the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award.[2]

Early Life

Brian Theodore Tyler was born on May 8, 1972, in Orange County, California.[3] He grew up in a musical environment and developed an interest in music at an early age. Tyler became proficient on multiple instruments, a skill set that would later distinguish him among Hollywood composers for his ability to perform many of the parts on his own scores rather than relying entirely on session musicians.[4]

Tyler's early musical interests were broad, encompassing classical composition, rock, and electronic music. His multi-instrumentalist abilities—spanning keyboards, guitar, drums, and various orchestral instruments—gave him an unusually hands-on approach to scoring that would become a hallmark of his professional career.[3] Growing up in Southern California, Tyler was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age and gravitated toward the intersection of music and visual storytelling.

Career

Early Career and Breakthrough

Tyler began his career in film scoring in the late 1990s. One of his earliest notable credits was the independent film Six-String Samurai (1998), a post-apocalyptic action comedy for which he composed the score.[5] The film, though modest in its theatrical release, showcased Tyler's ability to blend genres musically—combining rock, orchestral, and experimental elements in ways that caught the attention of filmmakers working in action and genre cinema.

Throughout the early 2000s, Tyler steadily built his filmography, taking on a variety of projects across different genres. His versatility and willingness to work across action, horror, thriller, and drama categories allowed him to accumulate credits rapidly while developing a distinctive compositional voice characterized by propulsive rhythms, sweeping orchestral themes, and the integration of electronic elements with traditional orchestration.[4]

Action Franchise Work

Tyler's career trajectory shifted significantly when he became associated with several of Hollywood's most prominent action franchises. He scored seven installments of the Fast & Furious franchise, establishing recurring musical themes that became closely identified with the series.[1] This long-running association with one of the highest-grossing film franchises in history substantially raised Tyler's profile within the industry and contributed significantly to the cumulative box office total of his scored films.

He also composed the scores for the fourth and fifth films of the Rambo franchise, continuing the musical legacy of a series that had been scored by composer Jerry Goldsmith in its earlier installments. Tyler brought a contemporary sensibility to the franchise while maintaining the muscular, militaristic tone associated with the series.

Tyler scored all three films of The Expendables franchise, working alongside an ensemble cast of action stars. The scores for these films required a blend of nostalgic action-movie bombast and modern production techniques, reflecting the franchise's positioning as both homage to and continuation of 1980s action cinema.

In the horror genre, Tyler composed the scores for the fourth and fifth installments of the Final Destination franchise, as well as the fifth and sixth entries in the Scream franchise. His horror work demonstrated his range, requiring a different set of compositional tools—tension-building, dissonance, and carefully timed musical stings—compared to his action scores.

He additionally scored Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007) and Eagle Eye (2008), further cementing his reputation as a reliable composer for large-scale studio productions with significant visual effects and action sequences.[1]

Marvel Cinematic Universe

Tyler's involvement with the Marvel Cinematic Universe represented a significant milestone in his career. He composed the score for Iron Man 3 (2013), the first sequel in the Iron Man sub-franchise to feature a new composer following Rami Malek's work on the first two films. Tyler's score for the film blended heroic orchestral themes with the contemporary sensibility that had become his trademark.

He followed Iron Man 3 with the score for Thor: The Dark World (2013), for which he composed both the film's score and the Marvel Studios logo fanfare that debuted with the film and was used from 2013 through 2016.[2] The Marvel Studios logo composition became one of Tyler's most widely heard pieces of music, playing before every Marvel film released during that period and becoming instantly recognizable to audiences worldwide.

Tyler also contributed to the score of Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), sharing composing duties with Danny Elfman. The collaboration between the two composers on one of Marvel's largest productions reflected the scale and complexity of the film's musical requirements.

Universal Pictures Fanfare

In 2012, Tyler created a new arrangement of the Universal Pictures logo fanfare, which had originally been composed by Jerry Goldsmith. The updated fanfare debuted with The Lorax (2012) as part of Universal Pictures' celebration of its 100th anniversary. This arrangement became the standard version of the fanfare used before Universal releases, making it one of the most frequently heard pieces of film music in the world and a notable element of Tyler's legacy as a composer whose work extends beyond individual film scores to institutional branding.[1]

Television Work

Tyler expanded his work into television scoring, most notably through his collaboration with creator Taylor Sheridan on the Yellowstone universe of series. He composed the music for Yellowstone, the flagship series starring Kevin Costner, as well as its prequel series 1883 and 1923. For these television projects, Tyler worked alongside collaborator Breton Vivian. The Yellowstone franchise became one of the most-watched properties on cable television, and Tyler's scores—blending Americana, orchestral drama, and evocative landscape-suggesting music—became closely identified with the shows' identity.

His composition for the television film Last Call earned Tyler the first of his three Emmy nominations, marking recognition from the television industry for his work in that medium.[6] The Emmy nominations further established Tyler as a cross-platform composer comfortable working at the highest levels of both film and television production.

Sports and Event Music

Beyond film and television, Tyler composed the NFL Sunday Countdown theme for ESPN, one of the most prominent sports programming themes on American television. He also composed the official theme for Formula One, which is additionally used in Formula 2 and Formula 3 racing broadcasts. The Formula One theme, with its dramatic orchestral flourishes and driving rhythmic energy, became an integral part of the sport's global broadcast presentation.

Tyler additionally composed the anthem for the Esports World Cup, reflecting the expansion of his work into the growing esports entertainment sector. These commissions in sports and event music demonstrated Tyler's ability to create concise, impactful musical identities for major global brands and organizations.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie

Tyler composed the score for The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), the animated film produced by Illumination and Nintendo. The film became a massive commercial success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films ever made.[1] Tyler's score for the film incorporated and adapted themes from the Super Mario video game series while creating original orchestral compositions to support the narrative. He was subsequently engaged to score the sequel, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

Crazy Rich Asians and Dramatic Work

Tyler's score for Crazy Rich Asians (2018) demonstrated his versatility in a different register, composing for a romantic comedy-drama rather than his more typical action or genre fare. The film, based on Kevin Kwan's novel, was a critical and commercial success and represented a cultural milestone as the first major studio film with an all-Asian cast since The Joy Luck Club (1993).[1]

Now You See Me Franchise

Tyler scored the Now You See Me franchise, composing music for the heist thriller films featuring ensemble casts. The scores required a playful yet suspenseful musical approach befitting films centered on illusionists and elaborate deceptions.

Nuremberg

In 2025–2026, Tyler scored Nuremberg, a historical drama centered on the landmark post–World War II Nuremberg trials. The project was notable both for its serious subject matter and for a personal challenge Tyler faced during its production: he experienced a life-threatening medical emergency while in the final stages of scoring the film.[7] Despite this setback, Tyler completed the score, which was subsequently shortlisted for consideration in the Best Original Score category at the Academy Awards.

xXx: Return of Xander Cage and Other Projects

Tyler scored xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017), the third installment in the xXx franchise starring Vin Diesel.[8] His ongoing collaboration with Diesel, who also starred in the Fast & Furious franchise, reflected the long-standing professional relationships Tyler built with actors and filmmakers throughout his career.

Electronic Music

Outside of his film and television work, Tyler has pursued electronic music under the alias "Are We Dreaming," exploring a different creative outlet from his orchestral and hybrid scoring work. This project has involved collaborations with other musicians, including work with Tom Morello, Kill the Noise, and Madsonik.[9]

Recognition

Tyler received the International Film Music Critics Association (IFMCA) Composer of the Year award for 2013, announced in February 2014.[2] He also received an IFMCA award nomination in 2009.[10]

His work earned him three Emmy nominations over the course of his career, with the first coming for his composition for the television film Last Call. The Emmy recognition placed Tyler among the relatively small number of composers who have been nominated for major awards in both the film and television categories.

Tyler earned a gold record for his work, and his compositional achievements led to his induction into the music branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.[11] Membership in the Academy's music branch signifies peer recognition within the film industry and makes Tyler eligible to vote on the Academy Award for Best Original Score.

He also received a Saturn Award nomination, with his work recognized alongside scores for major science fiction and fantasy productions.[12]

As of November 2017, the cumulative worldwide box office gross of films scored by Tyler exceeded $12 billion, placing him in the top ten highest-grossing film composers of all time by that measure.[1] This figure has continued to grow with subsequent releases including The Super Mario Bros. Movie and entries in the Scream and Fast & Furious franchises.

Legacy

Tyler's body of work is notable for its volume, commercial impact, and stylistic range. Having scored films across the action, horror, comedy, drama, animation, and science fiction genres, as well as major television series, sports themes, and video games, Tyler has established himself as one of the most prolific and commercially significant film composers of the early 21st century.

His creation of the Universal Pictures 100th anniversary fanfare and the 2013–2016 Marvel Studios logo music means that Tyler's compositions have been heard by billions of people worldwide in contexts extending far beyond individual film scores. The Formula One theme similarly reaches a global audience numbering in the hundreds of millions each racing season, making Tyler one of the most widely heard composers working today.

Tyler's approach to scoring—characterized by his multi-instrumentalist abilities and willingness to perform many parts himself—has been noted as distinctive within the film composing community. His integration of electronic music elements with traditional orchestral scoring, and his pursuit of electronic music as "Are We Dreaming," reflects a compositional philosophy that embraces multiple musical traditions and production approaches.[3][4]

His long-running associations with specific franchises—seven Fast & Furious films, three Expendables films, multiple Scream and Final Destination entries—demonstrate the collaborative relationships Tyler has maintained with filmmakers and studios over extended periods. These franchise associations have also contributed to the thematic continuity of major film series, with Tyler's recurring musical motifs providing sonic identity across multiple installments.

The breadth of Tyler's work across the Taylor Sheridan television universe, major animated features, Marvel Cinematic Universe entries, and global sports branding positions him as a composer whose influence extends across multiple entertainment sectors rather than being confined to a single medium or genre.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 "Brian Tyler – Box Office Mojo".Box Office Mojo.http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Composer&id=briantyler.htm.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 "IFMCA Winners 2013".International Film Music Critics Association.http://filmmusiccritics.org/2014/02/ifmca-winners-2013/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Interview with Brian Tyler".8Dio.https://web.archive.org/web/20140416182503/http://8dio.com/blog/interview-with-brian-tyler/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 "Interview: Brian Tyler".Corduroy Magazine.https://web.archive.org/web/20140416230743/http://www.corduroymag.com/music/interview-brian-tyler/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  5. "Brian Tyler – Six-String Samurai".Six-String Samurai.https://web.archive.org/web/20051108021842/http://www.sixstringsamurai.com/tyler.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  6. "2014 Emmy Nominations".The New York Times.https://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/11/arts/television/2014-emmy-nominations-game-of-thrones-true-detective-among-the-honored.html?_r=0.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  7. "Composer Brian Tyler on scoring 'Nuremberg' and surviving a life-threatening medical emergency".Gold Derby.https://www.goldderby.com/film/2026/nuremberg-composer-brian-tyler-oscar-shortlist-best-score/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  8. "Brian Tyler Scoring 'xXx: Return of Xander Cage'".Film Music Reporter.2016-10-12.http://filmmusicreporter.com/2016/10/12/brian-tyler-scoring-xxx-return-of-xander-cage/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  9. "Tom Morello Joins Forces with Madsonik & Kill the Noise – 'Divebomb'".Your EDM.2017-01-19.http://www.youredm.com/2017/01/19/edm-exclusive-tom-morello-joins-forces-madsonik-kill-noise-divebomb/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  10. "IFMCA Announces Winners of 2009 Awards".International Film Music Critics Association.http://filmmusiccritics.org/2010/03/ifmca-announces-winners-of-2009-awards/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  11. "Academy Invites New Members Including Bono, Gabourey Sidibe".Entertainment Weekly.http://www.ew.com/article/2010/06/25/academy-new-members-bono-gabourey-sidibe.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  12. "Gravity, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Lead Saturn Awards Noms".Variety.https://variety.com/2014/film/news/gravity-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-lead-saturn-awards-noms-1201120744/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.