The Hollywood Musicals cover

Released 40 years ago

The Hollywood Musicals

Johnny Mathis · 1986

42 min · 11 tracks · pop music

A lush orchestral backdrop frames Mathis's smooth vocals, celebrating classic Hollywood songbook standards.

Top tracks — play these first

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    You Stepped Out of a Dream Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    When You Wish Upon a Star — This track highlights Mathis's ability to convey deep emotion through his vocal delivery, transforming a beloved Disney classic into an intimate ballad.
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    Taking a Chance on Love — Mathis infuses this upbeat standard with warmth and optimism, showcasing his charisma and effortless style that resonates throughout the album.
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    True Love — With its romantic themes and lush arrangements, this track exemplifies Mathis's signature sound while paying homage to classic film musicals.
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    Time After Time — Mathis's rendition transforms this familiar tune into a heartfelt expression of longing, demonstrating his mastery over phrasing and emotional nuance.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady romantic listening experience
  • soothing orchestral arrangements throughout
  • for nostalgic evenings
  • tender vocals for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat and fast tempos
  • seek experimental or edgy sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Reaffirms Mathis's status after a hiatus, showcasing his enduring appeal.
Themes
Hollywood nostalgia· romantic ballads· Disney magic
Career context
Released in 1986, The Hollywood Musicals marked Johnny Mathis's return to the studio after a four-year hiatus, following the 1982 album A Special Part of Me. This period saw Mathis revisiting his roots in traditional pop and easy listening, as he embraced the timeless charm of songs from iconic films.
Stylistic neighbors
Perry Como· Frank Sinatra· Nat King Cole

Tracklist

  • 1 You Stepped Out of a Dream Start here 3:33
  • 2 Taking a Chance on Love 3:03
  • 3 When You Wish Upon a Star 3:43
  • 4 True Love 3:09
  • 5 Whistling Away the Dark 3:21
  • 6 Time After Time 3:29
  • 7 It Might as Well Be Spring 4:36
  • 8 I Had the Craziest Dream 3:07
  • 9 Long Ago and Far Away 4:03
  • 10 Crazy World 3:23
  • 11 Moonlight Becomes You / It Could Happen to You / But Beautiful 7:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata