April 26 is the birthday of Italian composer, songwriter and record producer Giorgio Moroder. Known as the “Father of Disco,” Moroder produced some of the biggest dance hits of the 1970s, most notably with Donna Summer.

But to consider Moroder only within the genre of disco music doesn’t begin to encapsulate his stunning career. Moroder’s influence as a producer helped shape the sound of new wave, techno and EDM, and his influence is still felt in electronic music today. What’s more, Moroder has composed numerous film soundtracks, including songs and scores for such films as American Gigolo and The NeverEnding Story. Moroder has won Oscars for his music in the films Midnight Express and Top Gun, and his music for Flashdance earned both an Academy Award and a Grammy.

Moroder turns 83 today, and as recently as 2019, he was still DJing live shows. So let’s celebrate Giorgio Moroder. For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what music by Giorgio Moroder do you want to hear?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

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Songs Played
Donna Summer - I Feel Love
David Bowie and Giorgio Moroder - Cat People (Putting Out Fire)
Berlin - Take My Breath Away
Giorgio Moroder - Chase (Single Version)
Sparks - The Number One Song In Heaven
Blondie - Call Me
Limahl - The NeverEnding Story
Irene Cara - Going Bananas (bonus)