Pointless, the popular quiz show that has graced our screens since 2009, is widely loved by many.
Hosted by Alexander Armstrong, the show sees four teams of two contestants compete to find the most obscure answers to general knowledge questions. The winning team then vies for the show’s cash jackpot.
Previously co-presented by Richard Osman, the show has been a favourite for years, but fans are only now discovering something about the theme tune. Many believed that Richard’s brother, Mat Osman, bass player from Suede, composed the theme tune.
However, this isn’t the case. Although Mat did venture into TV music composition after Suede split in 2003, he is actually known for the theme tune for 8 Out of 10 Cats. The true composer of BBC‘s catchy Pointless theme tune was recently revealed following a discussion on Reddit.
The conversation began with confusion over famous guitarists and quickly evolved into a debate about Brit pop bassists.
One user claimed: “Yeah, I’d say Alex James from Blur, and Mat Osman from Suede (who is also Richard Osman’s brother, and wrote the theme music for Pointless).”
But, another user swiftly corrected them, stating: “He did the music for 8 Out of 10 Cats, not Pointless.” The debate over who ranks among the top bassists led to an intriguing question – who actually penned the theme tune for Pointless?
The answer is Marc Sylvan, a name that might not be immediately familiar, but whose work certainly is. He’s the UK’s go-to composer for quiz show music, having created memorable tunes for The Million Pound Drop on Channel 4 and Pointless on the BBC.
These shows have been sold internationally, and his compositions have travelled with them. For those curious about Sylvan’s background, his sound design for the sci-fi short “Embryo” earned him “Best Sound Design” at the Vision Festival in 2005.
This accolade opened doors to collaborate with talents like Beavis and Butthead animator James Dean Conklin and Shrek animator, Lee Lanier.
His video game credits are equally impressive, working with renowned composer Richard Jacques on titles such as Sonic and Sega All-Stars Racing, The Club and Virtua Tennis. Additionally, he has teamed up with Matthew Swinnerton, ex-guitarist of The Rakes, in a project called “Buro”.
Sylvan’s compositions are published by Faber Music, and his portfolio includes high-profile shows like The Masked Singer, Total Wipeout and Catchphrase.