Ray Parker Jr.

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Ray Parker Jr. stands as a titan of 1980s pop and R&B, with a legacy defined by one of the most recognizable themes in cinema history. His composition of the "Ghostbusters" theme song secured him a Golden Globe and cemented his place in pop culture forever. The song's enduring popularity has generated millions in royalties, proving its status as a financial and cultural powerhouse. His BMI Icon Award further acknowledges his profound influence on the music industry, recognizing a career that spans from Motown sessions to global superstardom.

AwardsRay Parker Jr. won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for "Ghostbusters" in 1985. He has received multiple BMI Pop Awards for his songwriting success. While he was nominated for an Academy Award and a Grammy, he did not win those specific awards. His BMI Icon Award recognizes his significant impact on the music industry.

Honours & Distinctions

BMI Icon Award

Broadcast Music, Inc.·2013

Recognized for his significant impact on the music industry.

Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

Inducted as a key figure in Detroit's musical heritage.

Rankings & Lists

Rolling Stone Greatest Movie Themes

Rolling Stone·2020

Billboard Top Singles of the 80s

Billboard·2019

Magazine Covers

Vibe

1995-06-01

Ray Parker Jr.: The Ghostbuster Returns

Ebony

1984-08-01

The Man Behind the Hit

Records & Feats

Only Instrumental Theme to Reach #1 Since Shaft

Chart Record·1984

"Ghostbusters" remains the only instrumental theme song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 since "Theme from Shaft."

Most Recognized Movie Theme

Historic First·2020

The "Ghostbusters" theme is frequently cited in Guinness World Records as one of the most recognized movie themes globally.