I LEAVE IT TO ADAM TO PROVIDE THE LYRICS: Since we're coming to the end of West Wing Week here, I figure it's time for a post about one of the most unsung heroes of the show (as well as television over the past 10 years). It's a man you wouldn't recognize walking down the street, and who doesn't get a whole lot of media attention, but he deserves it. I speak, of course, of composer W.G. "Snuffy" Walden. Of course, his work on TWW has been exemplary, with the majestic orchestral theme and the orchestral piece that follows Leo through the White House in the pilot (now the end credits theme on Bravo and elsewhere where they show full screen closing credits) being high points, but it's Walden's diversity that deserves special mention.
Among his other credits? The strummy guitar character themes from Felicity, the whispered "Go now, go now!" that began My So-Called Life, the distinctive quick blues-y guitar chords that marked another episode of Sports Night, as well as themes and/or scores for Thirtysomething, Once and Again, The Wonder Years, and I'll Fly Away. He's won 13 straight BMI TV Music Awards, including the lifetime achievement award. There are many things I'll miss about not having new West Wing to watch any more. Not hearing his scores is near the top of the list. The good news is that Walden will be among the TWW alums joining Studio 60. Personally, I can't wait to hear what he comes up with.
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