The instrumental title tune, "Axel F" by Harold Faltermeyer, became a worldwide hit single and has since been covered by numerous artists.

[6] The Grammy was awarded jointly to Marc Benno, Harold Faltermeyer, Keith Forsey, Micki Free, John Gilutin, David "Hawk" Wolinski, Howard Hewett, Bunny Hull, Howie Rice, Sharon Robinson, Danny Sembello, Sue Sheridan, Richard Theisen and Allee Willis.

A key song in the movie, "Nasty Girl" by Vanity 6, played during the strip club robbery scene, is not included in the soundtrack.

In 2016, La-La Land Records issued a limited edition album featuring the complete film score composed by Harold Faltermeyer as well as several of the songs used.

The label originally planned to release it as part of a 2-disc set with the expanded Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack, but La-La Land Records was contractually obligated to issue each album separately.