Axel F

"Axel F" is an instrumental theme song composed by Harold Faltermeyer in 1984. It is best known as the signature tune from the film Beverly Hills Cop, starring Eddie Murphy. The track is a synth-pop piece characterized by its distinctive synthesized melody and driving rhythm.

The title "Axel F" refers to the name of the film's main character, Axel Foley, a Detroit police detective played by Murphy. The song became a worldwide hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its infectious melody made it instantly recognizable and frequently used in commercials, television shows, and other media.

Beyond its initial popularity, "Axel F" experienced a resurgence in 2005 thanks to a viral internet phenomenon known as the "Crazy Frog" or "The Annoying Thing." This animated character was superimposed over the track, creating a music video that garnered significant attention and propelled the song back into the global consciousness. The Crazy Frog version of "Axel F" further cemented the song's place in popular culture, introducing it to a new generation.

Harold Faltermeyer also composed the scores for other notable films including Top Gun and Fletch. "Axel F" remains his most recognized and commercially successful work, considered a defining sound of 1980s synth-pop.