One of the Best Video Game Music I've Done

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbokkMTuUQQ

When a client asked me to create a theme song for their new game, I expected the usual process: gather requirements, compose some melodies on the piano, and deliver a track that fits the game’s mood. But this project turned out to be unlike any other. The game was about a donkey that jumps around, collects coins, and keeps players hooked. That detail sparked an idea that changed everything. Instead of starting with traditional instruments, I decided to build the entire soundtrack using only donkey sounds. The result surprised everyone, including me.

Finding Inspiration in the Unusual

Good ideas don’t always come quickly. Sometimes they don’t come at all unless you change your perspective. After receiving the game’s concept, I paused my usual piano work and focused on the donkey itself. I watched countless videos to understand its behavior and sounds. Donkeys don’t do much, but their brays and grunts have a unique character. That’s when I realized these sounds could become the foundation of the music.

Using animal sounds in music isn’t new, but building an entire game theme around a donkey’s voice was a fresh challenge. I wanted the music to feel playful and addictive, just like the game. The donkey’s bray became the main melody, while other sounds added rhythm and texture.

Crafting the Donkey-Based Soundtrack

Here’s how I approached it:

• Sampling the Sounds

I recorded various donkey sounds I found on internet.

• Editing

I trimmed the samples and adjusted their pitch to fit musical notes. This step was crucial to make the donkey sounds melodic and harmonious.

• Layering Instruments

To add depth, I layered the donkey sounds with nostalgic instruments like a soft piano and light percussion. This blend created a warm, catchy vibe that matched the game’s playful spirit.

• Building the Rhythm

The donkey’s snorts and grunts became percussive elements. I arranged them into a rhythmic pattern that drives the song forward and keeps listeners engaged.

• Adding Nostalgia

The game’s addictive nature reminded me of classic arcade tunes. I incorporated retro synth sounds to evoke that feeling, making the music both fresh and familiar.

The Reaction of the Client (why it's the best video game music I've done?)

After finishing the track, I sent it to the client with a mix of excitement and nerves. I trusted my intuition that they would appreciate this unique approach. A few days later, their response exceeded my expectations. They loved the song and said it perfectly captured the game’s spirit.

Why I'm thinking this is best video game music I've done is because I'm working on many soundtrack projects however, I don't usually get to use real world sounds like this one. This is what makes this job crazier. It expands my imagination everytime.