Lionsgate and Universal Republic Records announced the soundtrack to The Hunger Games, produced by T Bone Burnett, will contain all new songs based on “themes embodied in The Hunger Games.” The Hunger Games soundtrack will be released before the March 23, 2012 release of the first film based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling trilogy.
Taylor Swift collaborated with Civil Wars and Burnett on the lead single “Safe and Sound” which is available on iTunes as of December 23, 2011. According to Lionsgate, following Swift’s tweet with info on its availability, the song went to “the top ten on iTunes overall songs chart and pop chart within twelve hours of its debut.” “Safe and Sound” was also the number-one song on iTunes on December 23rd.
Also featured on the upcoming The Hunger Games soundtrack are Win Butler and Regine Chassagne of Arcade Fire who wrote “Horn Of Plenty” for the soundtrack. The Decemberists also contribute the original song, “One Engine,” on The Hunger Games soundtrack.
Commenting on the soundtrack, Lionsgate’s co-COO and Motion Picture Group President Joe Drake stated, “We are thrilled to have such a hauntingly beautiful companion album taking shape- T Bone is working with these artists to create something truly incredible and unique that fits perfectly with the powerful themes of the books and the film.”
Added Universal Republic President and CEO Monte Lipman, “The Hunger Games is a groundbreaking series that is nothing short of brilliant. Universal Republic is delighted to forge a creative alliance with Lionsgate to participate in this franchise’s undeniable legacy.”
The Hunger Games Plot:
Every year, in the ruins of what was once North America, the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Part twisted entertainment, part government intimidation tactic, the Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains.
Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
