Alf Clausen’s Best Songs From The Simpsons

Originally shared on August 30, 2017, after the announcement that Alf Clausen was let go from The Simpsons. Given fresh attention today following the news of his passing at 84.

On a Wednesday, it was announced that Alf Clausen had been let go from his position as long-term composer on The Simpsons after 27 years. This news is a significant blow. Although Danny Elfman is the creator of the show’s iconic theme song, Clausen’s influence on the music of The Simpsons is incomparable. Not only has he scored every single scene since 1990, but he also created the tunes for beloved songs from season five and beyond. Prior to working on The Simpsons, Clausen honed his skills as a composer for many years. He had an extraordinary ability to compose large-scale, traditional show tunes while simultaneously parodying music in a way that made it unique enough for fair use. This talent is why Matt Groening has always referred to him as the show’s “secret weapon.” In light of today’s news, let us reminisce about some of Clausen’s most memorable compositions on The Simpsons.

“Kamp Krusty Theme Song” (Season 4, Episode 1)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=UJsV4BbIIXs

“Springfield, Springfield” (Season 5, Episode 8)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=PshxGXH0xRc

“Who Needs the Kwik-E-Mart?” (Season 5, Episode 13)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=7s7YR9wS8eg

“We Do (The Stonecutters’ Song)” (Season 6, Episode 12)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=_ZI_aEalijE

“See My Vest” (Season 6, Episode 20)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=TyWVaZsUQjc

“Señor Burns” (Season 7, Episode 1)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=p9kdDet7G14