Diggin' in the Carts: 8 Bit Music Documentary
The Story Behind Your Favorite Video Game Music
Thank You Red Bull Music Academy, you have created one of the coolest documentaries I've ever seen. Digging' in the Carts is a 6 part documentary about the creators of video game music. It starts from the very early days, when putting music to a video game was a revolutionary idea, and ultimately winds up to the present day of cinema quality soundtracks. If your childhood was anything like mine, much of its soundtrack was provided by the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super NES and Sega Genesis. An interesting point the documentary makes is that video game music is arguably Japan's biggest musical export, and possibly one its great world-wide cultural contributions. The film has interviews from many of the great composers, who discuss the challenges and limitations of early game music, as well as artists such as Flying Lotus and Anamanaguchi, who were influenced by their work. Below is the first part, but head over to Red Bull Music Academy for all six parts; you won't regret it.
Some of My Own 8-bit Inspired Music
Over the last few years, I've dabbled in some chip music of my own, check out the following EPs.
Make Your Own Video Game Music in Ableton Live
If you feel inspired to make your own video game music, I've got the tools for you! Try out my free Nintendo Rack, from a few years back. If you just can't get enough, may I recommend the Super 8-Bit Ableton Live Pack? It's a massive collection of all kinds of 8-bit video game instruments and sounds!