We have a collection of 2 arrangements for EarthBound - Winter's White: An Early Christmas Medley
What makes EarthBound's music uniquely suitable for a Christmas medley arrangement? Learn!
"Earthbound," also known as "Mother 2" in Japan, is a classic role-playing game (RPG) developed by Ape Inc. and HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo. It was first released in Japan in 1994 and later in North America in 1995. The game has gained a cult following over the years, and its soundtrack, composed by Keiichi Suzuki and Hirokazu Tanaka, is particularly celebrated for its unique and memorable tunes. Here are some interesting facts about the Earthbound OST:
Eclectic Soundtrack: The Earthbound OST features a diverse range of musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, jazz, blues, and even avant-garde. This eclectic mix of genres contributes to the game's distinct and quirky atmosphere.
Sampling: The soundtrack is known for its use of sampling, where snippets of existing music are incorporated into the game's original compositions. The track "Battle Against a Machine" samples the drum beat from The Beatles' "Tomorrow Never Knows," adding a layer of familiarity for players.
Influence of Western Music: The game's music is heavily influenced by Western music, and many tracks pay homage to or reference famous songs. For example, the track "Threed, Zombie Central" features a riff reminiscent of Michael Jackson's "Thriller."
Collaboration with the English Band "The Onett Band": The English localization of Earthbound included a unique addition to the soundtrack. The team collaborated with the British band "The Onett Band" to create the song "Smiles and Tears," which plays during the game's ending credits.
Title Theme Connection to John Lennon: The game's title theme, known as "Pollyanna (I Believe in You)," bears a resemblance to John Lennon's song "Imagine." The similarity is intentional, as the theme was meant to evoke a sense of optimism and hope, much like Lennon's iconic song.
Hippie Culture Influence: The game's setting and music draw inspiration from the counterculture and hippie movements of the 1960s. This influence is reflected in the game's psychedelic visuals and the music's unconventional and experimental nature.
Extended Soundtrack Releases: While the original game had limitations in terms of cartridge space, fans have since created extended versions of the Earthbound soundtrack that include additional tracks and variations. These expanded soundtracks showcase the depth and creativity of the original compositions.
Legacy and Cultural Impact: Earthbound's soundtrack has left a lasting impact on gaming culture. Many fans appreciate the music not just for its nostalgic value but also for its artistic merit. The soundtrack has inspired remixes, covers, and arrangements by musicians within and outside the gaming community.
The Earthbound OST stands out as a prime example of how video game music can be a crucial and memorable part of the gaming experience. Its innovative use of diverse musical styles and cultural references has contributed to the enduring popularity of the game and its music.