2. David Arnold
Why Him? Outside of number one on this list, his style is the closest to John Williams. He loves that big, bold, brassy sound, but he's also capable of writing small, intimate moments that are haunting and compelling. That alone makes him a great candidate for Episode VII. Further examination of his oeuvre indicates a versatility that is imperative for any Star Wars composer. His scores, especially Independence Day, are also a blast to listen to on their own. (This can be said for everyone on the list, but still.) Most recently, he was the resident James Bond composer, turning in great work from Tomorrow Never Dies through Quantum of Solace, losing Skyfall to Sam Mendes' right hand man Thomas Newman. (For those keeping track of this random stat - that makes him another composer to jump into an existing franchise.) If it weren't for the next composer on this list, and their stratospheric rise in the last 8 years, David Arnold would be the best, and most likely choice to compose the score for Episode VII. Who's this brash young upstart you ask?