Looking Back: A Conversation With Oscar-Winning Composer Justin Hurwitz

Back in 2017, WDCB’s Gary Zidek caught up with composer and songwriter Justin Hurwitz for a conversation about LA LA LAND. WDCB will be screening the multiple Oscar-winning film Friday January 24.

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WDCB's Gary Zidek revisits his conversation with Oscar-winning composer and songwriter Justin Hurwitz.

“I sit at the piano for a very, very long time, going through demo after demo. And throw out one after another after another until the melody strikes me, that Damian (Chazelle) loves and that I love. Whenever I come to the right melody, it’s apparent immediately to both of us that we found it.” - Justin Hurwitz talking about his songwriting and composing process when working with director Damian Chazelle.

Justin Hurwitz talking to Ryan Gosling on-set of LA LA LAND

Three years ago, LA LA LAND received a record-tying 14 Oscar nominations.

Most people remember the mistake heard around the world when Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway incorrectly announced LA LA LAND as Best Picture at the Academy Awards ceremony, when in fact Moonlight was the winner.  Lost in all the controversy is the fact LA LA LAND won six Oscars, including one for Best Score and one for Best Original Song. Back in 2017 before the Academy Awards, WDCB’s Gary ZIdek caught up with Justin Hurwitz the man responsible for the music that brought LA LA LAND to life.

The neon sign inside Sebastian’s jazz club in LA LA LAND

WDCB is presenting a special screening of the award-winning musical as part of the station’s monthly Encore Film Series.  You can come see LA LA LAND at College of DuPage on Friday January 24 at 8pm, head over to WDCB.org for more information.

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone in LA LA LAND