Pitchfork Festival Interviews: Giorgio Moroder

By Lisa White in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 19, 2014 6:00PM

(Giorgio Moroder by Jessica Mlinaric)

Giorgio Moroder might not be a household name to some, but the music behind the moniker are songs most definitely recognized by many. Moroder started his career singing pop music in the '60s before meeting then back-up singer Donna Summer. Together, the pair would create some of the most iconic disco sounds, music that would lay the foundation for the future of electronic music.

Moroder also had a hand in creating some of the most iconic movie music of the '80s, crafting tracks and scores used in films such as Midnight Express, American Gigolo, Flashdance, Top Gun and Scarface. Over his career, he has won four Grammy Awards and three Academy Awards for his notable work. His sound permeates the film industry still to this day, his signature style still to be found in modern pop and dance music. After being spotlighted on Daft Punk's most recent album, Moroder is getting the recognition he rightfully deserves as being a founding father of modern music.

At the age of 74, Moroder is now touring and DJing for the first time in his career, trotting out a sonic history of his work while mixing in remixes of new artists he enjoys. He even released a new original track through Adult Swim and is working on even more new music, his somewhat retired career suddenly reignited. Moroder sat down to chat with Chicagoist before his Friday night performance at the festival. He spoke to us about his earliest favorite music memories, his new found love of performing at festivals, and how important happy music is in the world today.