Strictly Come Dancing Theme Composer Expresses Lasting Enjoyment of Tune

One of the individuals who co-wrote the theme music for Strictly Come Dancing has stated that he continues to appreciate it, even after two decades. The lively Latin-inspired theme, created by the composing partnership of Josh Phillips and Dan McGrath, has become the recognizable and captivating soundtrack for Saturday evenings. Mr. Phillips commented, “It’s 20 years old this year and it never, ever bores me to be honest.” He further added, “It’s just one of those tunes that just work.” Despite a career that involved performing with notable musicians such as Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, and Sting, Mr. Phillips acknowledged that he anticipates always being associated with the show’s characteristic sequins, expressive judges, and intricate dance routines. The musician, who resides in Hampshire, recalled that when he initially began working on the composition, he was convinced it required a significantly different style. He explained, “With a dancing show, you’d think it might be disco, we were playing with all kinds of disco-type ideas.” While driving to the recording studio one day, he recounted his realization: “It’s got to be Latin American, it’s got to be because then you can put brass over Latin and it doesn’t sound cheesy or dated, it’s just infectious. “It has that infectious feel and it makes you want to get up.” Mr. Phillips stated that they had “no idea how big it would be,” adding, “It was just a Saturday night BBC, shiny floor, cosy show.” He continued, “I don’t think [the BBC] had any idea how huge it would become, it’s like the flagship show for the BBC.” Later, when asked to compose the theme tune for Dancing with the Stars, the American adaptation of Strictly, he noted that the American producers desired something “glitzier and faster.” He expressed his astonishment at the extensive success the shows have achieved, remarking, “It’s gone all over the world.” However, he mentioned that he never imagined he would ultimately write theme songs for prime time Saturday night television programs. He had spent several decades performing in rock bands, including Big Country and Procol Harum, and collaborating with prominent figures in the music industry. He recounted, “The standout moment for me was the concert for Montserrat [at the the Royal Albert Hall],” adding, “We all came on for Hey Jude at the end. There’s Paul McCartney, there’s Midge Ure, there’s Eric Clapton on guitar, there’s Phil Collins on drums, that’s Sting on bass – I’ve done lots of shows since with all of those guys but to all be on stage at the same time was a ‘pinch me’ moment.” He has formed a new band named The Blue Water Giants with some of his well-known friends – John “Rhino” Edwards (Status Quo) and Neil Taylor (Tears For Fears) – and they have commenced their initial performances. The band’s first engagement was at the Royal Lymington Yacht Club, but following that, he indicated they are considering a European tour. He stated, “We have a few gigs in the Med, we’re just going to follow the sun!” For updates from BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight, individuals can follow on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.