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Top Gun‘s Tom Whitlock, who shared his songwriting talent with fans of the action flick by writing “Take My Breath Away,” was confirmed dead a few days ago.
Tom Whitlock bagged an Oscar for the hit song “Take My Breath Away” in the Tom Cruise-led film, he also proved himself worthy of recognition by writing “Danger Zone” for the blockbuster.
Unfortunately, Top Gun’s Tom Whitlock did not live to witness a possible release from the franchise as teased by the production. He passed away on February 18, two days shy of when he would have turned 69.
Tom Whitlock, Writer of Top Gun's "Danger Zone," Dead at 68https://t.co/hR8II8cPLQ pic.twitter.com/fOKDI8KCU6
— ComicBook NOW! (@ComicBookNOW) February 23, 2023
Top Gun’s Tom Whitlock Dead
According to a representative from Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Top Gun’s Tom Whitlock died at a memory care center based in Tennessee.
The cause of his death is yet to be published, but people close to the lyricist claimed he suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
Know A Little About The Deceased Star
Not much is known about his death, but Whitlock’s life was full of pleasant memories, and a legacy that will continue to be remembered years after his demise.
Whitlock met Giorgio Moroder, an Italian composer while working on his Ferrari’s brakes and soon, the men began to co-write “Top Gun” songs.
“Danger Zone” was his first co-written song. The piece was sung by Kenny Loggins and used during the opening scene of the first “Top Gun” film in 1986.
In the same film, “Take My Breath Away” delivered by Terri Nunn of Berlin influenced the producers to include more scenes with Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis.
Apart from earning an Oscar as Best Song, “Take My Breath Away” became a No.1 on the Billboard 100. “Danger Zone,” also topped as No.2 on the chart.
Top Gun’s Tom Whitlock’s Roots
Whitlock was born on February 20, 1954, and at a young age, he developed an interest in musical instruments playing fill-in drummer for a band.
When he grew older, he created his band with close pals, before working as an assistant at Davlen Sound Studios.