One of the most famous movie scores in history didn’t need any words, aside from its title, “Ghostbusters,” to be recognized. When it’s hummed, it’s usually the “na na na na” part, rather than the “I’m afraid of no ghost.”

Responsible for that theme, and many more, is Elmer Bernstein. The composer was nominated for 14 Academy Awards, and won one in 1967.

He died at age 82 this week, his publicist confirmed. He also wrote music for “The Magnificent Seven” and “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” More recently, he composed music for “Airplane” and “Three Amigos.”

He died of a lengthy battle with an undisclosed illness on Wednesday at his home in California.






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