Behind the Music

If you have seen no other fireworks display other than Seattle’s, you might take for granted the stellar design and picturesque setting that the Family 4th at Lake Union offers. But what also sets the Family 4th apart from other top shows in the country is the music.

Pyro Spectacular, the premier pyrotechnic company that has designed Seattle’s show for 14 years, notes that of the 400 shows they produce in a year, only one-quarter are synched to music, and most feature more “traditional” soundtracks. Rarely will a city dare to mix artists such as Jimi Hendrix with patriotic standards in their Independence Day fireworks displays… but that is what makes our show “so Seattle.”

The music drives the production, and so as the music changes, the look of the show changes. It is never the same year to year, so the audience is experiencing a fleeting work of art. This year’s soundtrack was dedicated to and inspired by the people of Seattle and what can happen when people come together to make a difference in their own community.

This year Chris Porter, One Reel’s Programming Director, set out to weave themes of gratitude, friendship and overcoming obstacles in with our patriotic celebration.

Here’s what Chris had to say about the inspiration behind each musical selection:

“Mission Impossible Theme” — Lalo Schifrin
I wanted to convey in subtle and/or obvious ways the amazing events that transpired to save the fireworks. It truly was a "Mission Impossible," or so it seemed. Plus, it's a very fun, dynamic composition.

“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough“ — Michael Jackson
MJ died too close to our fireworks event last year to be able to address his passing, so I wanted to pay tribute to him this year. He is truly an American icon. Plus, lyrically it's right on with "not stopping," which we hope we never do with this event.

“Reach Out, I’ll Be There” — The Four Tops
All of us at One Reel wanted to express gratitude for the help we received. The people of Seattle were very much “there” for the survival of this special event.

“She’s a Rainbow” — The Rolling Stones
Our fireworks show is truly one of the most colorful displays in the country, if not the world. The song is about beauty, exemplified by this wonderful presentation in the sky.

“Toccata and Fugue in D Minor” — Bach (performed by The Philadelphia Orchestra)
In looking for a classical piece we’ve never used, I came across this, which was used in Fantasia, among other things. The ominous vibe transitions very well with the next song’s theme.

“Uprising” — Muse
Every year I look for a current song to add to the mix. This song really grabbed me sonically and lyrically. It's about overcoming adversity and being victorious, a nod to our country's hard fought independence.

“Unforgettable” — Nat King Cole
Besides featuring songs about beauty, lights in the sky and America, I feel that it’s important to feature a song or two about love. We love our country, our family, and our fireworks show that is truly unforgettable. This is also a nice mellow song that helped vary the dynamics of the show, performed by an American singing legend.

“Rebel Rouser” — Duane Eddy
I aim to include songs from different decades to address all ages watching the show. An instrumental with some variations, like “Rebel Rouser,” helps the show flow. This was a big hit in the late 1950s and hearkens back to a special time in our country that included distinctive hairstyles, big cars, early television, and rock ’n’ roll—all American creations.

“Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again)” — Sly & The Family Stone
This was included as another “thank you” to the public. Thanks for letting us be ourselves to put this great event on!

“Hoe Down” (from Rodeo) — Aaron Copeland (performed by The London Symphony Orchestra)
American composer Aaron Copeland wrote this piece for the western-themed ballet Rodeo. The track’s dynamics work well for fireworks and the music is a nice slice of Americana.

“With a Little Help From My Friends” — Joe Cocker
We just didn’t want to stop saying thank you. We couldn’t have done this without a little (or rather a lot of) help from our good friends in the community. The inclusion of this song is a testament to Seattle’s generosity.

“God Bless America” — Kate Smith
“The Stars & Stripes Forever” — Arthur Fiedler & The Boston Pops
We usually end the show with one of these two patriotic songs, but never both. Well… why not? I knew the audience would think the show is ending with “God Bless America,” so the start of the “Stars & Stripes” was a fun surprise. To all of us this is a VERY special year for the Family 4th, and I thought it deserving of a very special, extended finale.