James Horner Popular Songs Ranking [2025]

Jake’s First FlightJames Horner8rank/position

Jake’s first flight

This is a commercial introducing Pandora – The World of Avatar, an attraction you can enjoy at Disney in Florida.

It vividly conveys the immersive, extraordinary world—like floating mountains in the sky and bioluminescent rainforests—through visuals that make you feel as if the wind is rushing past.

The music that further amplifies this grand, cinematic atmosphere is James Horner’s “Jake’s First Flight.” Also the theme from the film Avatar, its sweeping sound conveys the excitement of diving into a brand-new experience.

Leaving PortJames Horner9rank/position

[TITANIC] – “Leaving Port” (Complete Score / Film Version)

This piece is striking for the way its arrangement builds a growing sense of anticipation and excitement.

In the film, it plays as the protagonist, Jack Dawson, boards the ship.

Jack seizes the chance to board the Titanic to pursue his dream of becoming a painter; it feels as if his inner feelings are expressed directly through the music.

It appears as the fifth track on the Titanic original soundtrack.

For those who know what happens later, it might be a song that tightens your chest just a little.

Main TitleJames Horner10rank/position

James Horner – Braveheart Theme Song

Braveheart, the 1995 film directed by and starring Mel Gibson, is a historical drama depicting a real person who fought for Scotland’s independence.

The music was composed by James Horner, who is also known for scoring the film Titanic.

The theme song, reflecting the film’s story, blends Scottish and Celtic music, with memorable tones of flute and bagpipes.

The performance is by the London Symphony Orchestra, frequent contributors to film music, whose majestic sound enhances the film’s appeal.

My Heart Will Go OnJames Horner11rank/position

For absolute beginner violinists: “My Heart Will Go On” (Theme from the film Titanic) played in 1st position

For those of you who have just started playing the violin, I highly recommend James Horner’s “My Heart Will Go On.” This beloved classic resonates with many and doubles the joy of performing with its moving melody.

Though simple, it’s deeply touching and easy to grasp even for first-time violinists, and with practice you’ll surely feel yourself improving.

This beautiful piece brings out the charm of violin performance and will inspire you to rediscover the wonder of music.

Never an AbsolutionJames Horner12rank/position

Titanic – Never An Absolution

This song resonates beautifully with a transparent, pure singing voice.

In the film, it plays during a flashback scene by the heroine, Rose DeWitt Bukater.

The vocalist is Sissel, a beloved national singer from Norway.

This is exactly what it means for music to touch the heart.

With its ethereal, fragile atmosphere, this piece may loosen the tear ducts of more than a few listeners.

Included at the very end of the Titanic soundtrack, it’s a track that enjoys fervent support from fans.

RoseJames Horner13rank/position

Rose – James Horner (Titanic Soundtrack – #4)

This piece is a song themed around the romance between Jack and Rose, the main characters of the film Titanic.

It is the music that plays when Jack first sees Rose on the deck.

Composed by James Horner, it features an orchestra as well as the beautifully and effectively used voice of Norwegian soprano Sissel Kyrkjebø.

A portion of this piece with added lyrics became My Heart Will Go On, sung by Celine Dion, which was a massive hit.

Take Her To The Sea, Mr. MurdochJames Horner14rank/position

[TITANIC] – “Take Her to Sea, Mr Murdoch” (Complete Score / Film Version)

This is the orchestral piece used as the background music for the Titanic’s departure scene at the beginning of the film.

It’s a grand composition that conveys the majesty of the Titanic and the vastness of the sea.

Isn’t it a masterpiece that evokes the excitement of journeying across the open ocean?