The Assassination of Jesse James By the Coward Robert Ford

Ethereal and mournful, the score leans heavily on sparse piano, ambient strings, and subtle drones to create an atmosphere of tension, longing, and inevitable tragedy. Rather than bombastic Western themes, the music reflects the emotional isolation of its characters—especially Robert Ford’s obsessive yearning and Jesse James’ resigned fatalism.

The soundtrack doesn’t seek to overwhelm, but instead lingers like a ghost in the background, much like the film’s meditative cinematography. Tracks such as “Song for Jesse”, “Rather Lovely Thing”, and “What Must Be Done” are especially beloved for their fragile beauty and emotional depth.