Meco Monardo

Meco Monardo, born on November 29, 1939, was an American musician and record producer. He is known for creating several Star Wars musical works. These included Star Wars and Other Galactic Funk released in 1977, and Christmas in the Stars in 1980, both issued under the name Meco. Meco's other Star Wars musical releases included the tracks "Ewok Celebration," "Lapti Nek," and "Themes from Star Wars," all featured on the album Ewok Celebration. He also released the EP "Meco* – Plays Music From The Empire Strikes Back," as well as the compilation albums Dance Your Asteroids Off: The Complete Star Wars Collection, which came out in 2000, and Music Inspired By Star Wars.

The album cover for Meco's successful record, Music Inspired by Star Wars and other Galactic Funk. Meco saw the premiere of Star Wars in 1977, and he reportedly watched it multiple times that opening weekend. Captivated by John Williams's musical score, he secured the rights to produce a disco version of the music. His recording of "Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band" reached the number one spot on music charts. In this popular song, Meco and his recording partner Tony Bongiovi cleverly recreated authentic sound effects of R2-D2, starships, and laser fire to deepen the listener's connection to the film. After contacting 20th Century Fox, Meco attempted to obtain the Star Wars score, but the receptionist was unable to send it to him. Meco then sent her flowers, and he received the score within a few days.

Following the release of "Ewok Celebration," Meco retired from making music in 1985. He returned to creating Star Wars music in 2000 after The Phantom Menace was released, and his final Star Wars music was released in 2005. Meco died on May 26, 2023 at the age of 83.