Exploring Sync Music Options for Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart in HBO’s ‘Lanterns’

The casting of Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, the Green Lantern, in the upcoming HBO and DC Studios series Lanterns has fans buzzing. John Stewart is one of the most iconic characters in the Green Lantern Corps, and this series promises to dive into his origin story, his moral struggles, and his role as protector of Earth. Music plays an essential role in amplifying the tone, atmosphere, and emotional arcs of such projects, and it is exciting to think about how the right music could underscore key moments in Lanterns.

With Pierre stepping into the legendary role, the music syncing with his portrayal could set the tone for his emergence as a powerful and relatable superhero. Sync music can elevate storytelling, highlight pivotal character moments, and make iconic scenes even more unforgettable. In this blog post, we will explore potential sync music for Lanterns, particularly for Aaron Pierre’s portrayal of John Stewart, drawing inspiration from current music trends and the musical atmosphere of superhero shows and films.

1. Themes of Heroism and Power

One of the central themes in any superhero series, especially one revolving around a character as formidable as John Stewart, is the balance between heroism and power. Stewart is known for his strength, determination, and strong moral compass. The music needs to reflect these qualities, empowering his character and amplifying his authority.

A great choice for sync music could be cinematic orchestral tracks by artists like Audiomachine, Two Steps from Hell, or Hans Zimmer. Tracks like Redshift by Audiomachine, which have grandiose crescendos and epic orchestrations, could be paired with scenes where Stewart first harnesses his Green Lantern power or takes on villains. This kind of music creates a sense of gravity and significance, which will complement Aaron Pierre’s commanding screen presence.

Another possible option is Ramin Djawadi, known for his work on Game of Thrones and Westworld. His ability to craft tension and depth with tracks like Light of the Seven or Drift would perfectly complement the moments when John Stewart faces internal dilemmas or heavy confrontations.

2. Reflection and Solitude

John Stewart’s story isn’t just about his physical strength or leadership in the Green Lantern Corps; it’s also about the internal conflict he faces as a protector who’s burdened with the weight of the universe. This means there will likely be quiet, reflective moments, where Stewart contemplates the consequences of his powers and responsibilities.

For these introspective scenes, music from artists like Labrinth, Ben Howard, or James Blake could capture the emotional weight of his journey. Labrinth’s song Mount Everest evokes feelings of rising up against immense challenges, while Retrograde by James Blake blends haunting vocals and atmospheric production, perfect for those moments when Stewart must reconcile his duty with his personal struggles.

Another artist whose work would fit beautifully in these moments is Jon Hopkins. His ability to craft ambient, yet emotionally charged electronic music could be ideal for scenes in which Stewart is isolated or grappling with the cosmic nature of his responsibilities. Tracks like Emerald Rush could mirror the vastness of space and the burden that comes with being a Green Lantern.

3. Tension and Conflict

Given that Lanterns will focus on the Green Lantern Corps, a military-like organization, there will be moments of tension, action, and high-stakes conflict. Music that underscores these dramatic moments needs to be high-energy and build tension effectively.

An excellent fit for action sequences would be Run the Jewels. Their heavy-hitting beats and sharp lyricism, as heard in tracks like Legend Has It or Talk to Me, could add an edge to high-paced, high-tension scenes, whether it’s Stewart engaging in hand-to-hand combat or confronting other members of the Corps. Their music has been used in various action-packed trailers and films, including Black Panther, and would fit perfectly into the world of Lanterns.

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, known for their work on The Social Network and Watchmen, would also be a great choice for crafting atmospheric, yet intense tracks that gradually build tension. Their dark, electronic sound could play out during moments of suspense, especially as John Stewart navigates the political and cosmic intrigues that are likely to be central to the plot of Lanterns.

4. Cosmic and Futuristic Sounds

The Green Lantern Corps operates on a cosmic level, patrolling the farthest reaches of space. Given this, it’s important to consider music that evokes a sense of the future, of intergalactic travel, and of alien worlds.

Artists like M83, Justice, and Daft Punk are known for their futuristic soundscapes, blending electronic elements with epic cinematic sound. M83’s Oblivion or Daft Punk’s Tron: Legacy soundtrack could be used in scenes where John Stewart is flying across the stars, introducing audiences to the grandeur and complexity of the Green Lantern universe.

For a more experimental, ethereal sound, Brian Eno’s ambient work would also suit certain scenes. His tracks, like An Ending (Ascent), have an expansive, weightless quality to them, making them ideal for moments when John Stewart is confronted by the vastness of space or the metaphysical questions that come with his power.

5. Cultural Resonance

John Stewart is one of the most prominent African American superheroes, and his identity will undoubtedly play a role in how he interacts with the world. Syncing music that reflects this aspect of his character can help establish a deeper connection between the audience and his story.

Incorporating tracks from contemporary hip-hop or R&B artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, or Solange would help ground John Stewart in modern culture. Kendrick Lamar’s Alright became an anthem for empowerment and resilience, while J. Cole’s Love Yourz speaks to finding strength in struggle. These tracks, or similar ones, could play over flashbacks to Stewart’s life before the Green Lantern Corps or during moments of personal reflection.

Flying Lotus and Thundercat also provide a blend of futuristic and soulful sounds that could enhance John Stewart’s character development. Their unique mix of jazz, funk, and electronic elements could lend a fresh, distinct flavor to scenes exploring his personal journey or interstellar adventures.

Conclusion

Music will play a crucial role in shaping the tone and emotional resonance of Lanterns, especially when it comes to Aaron Pierre’s portrayal of John Stewart. From powerful orchestral compositions that highlight his heroic stature to introspective electronic pieces that explore his internal conflicts, the right sync music can elevate each scene and create lasting moments of emotional impact.

By blending elements of cinematic orchestral soundscapes, modern hip-hop, electronic, and ambient music, the series can create a diverse and dynamic auditory experience that aligns with the character’s complexity and the scale of his cosmic responsibilities. As the anticipation for Lanterns builds, fans can only hope that the music choices will resonate as powerfully as the character of John Stewart himself.