RJD2 is the musician credited for Mad Men’s opening theme.
The opening titles use an edited version of “A Beautiful Mine,” an instrumental track by the American producer and musician RJD2. His credit is distinct from that of David Carbonara, who composed the series’ original score and supplied music heard elsewhere in the show.
RJD2 released “A Beautiful Mine” on his 2007 album The Third Hand. Mad Men’s producers selected the track to accompany a stark animation of a silhouetted businessman falling past skyscrapers covered with period advertising imagery. The combination quickly became one of television’s most recognizable title sequences.
The credit can be confused because Carbonara is listed as the show’s composer. That description refers to the original dramatic score, not the opening theme. Other musicians such as Bonobo, DJ Shadow, and Moby may fit the show’s sophisticated electronic atmosphere, but they are not credited for this title music.