Leitmotifs in Sonic

A not-so-comprehensive study on the usage of leitmotifs throughout the Sonic games, hope you enjoy!
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Outro song: End of the Summer - Sonic Runner Soundtrack
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#ALtheBoi #sonicthehedgehog #sonic
Leitmotifs in Sonic (0:00)
Sonic and the Black Knight (7:32)
What is Sonic's theme? (12:03)
Sonic 06 (13:48)
Sonic Colors (22:09)
Sonic Unleashed (27:47)
tag time babeee,
You know the drill, I start babbling keywords to boost engagement }:) you can stop reading now, or don't, I ain't your dad
Leitmotif in Sonic music theory video essay character study analysis sonic's theme his world endless possibilities reach for the star knight of the wind it doesn't matter, Sonic is eager to prove he has what it takes to be a true hero. His test comes when Dr. Robotnik returns, this time with a new partner, Knuckles, in search for an emerald that has the power to. Sonic teams up with his own sidekick, Tails, to find the it falls into the. From the filmmakers behind The Fast and the Furious and Deadpool, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2 stars James Marsden, Ben Schwartz as the voice of Sonic, Tika Sumpter, Schaff watches Sonic in multiple different universes and plot elements! Natasha Rothwell, Bernard Warren III, Adam Pally, and Jim Carrey returning, alongside new additions Shemar Moore, with Idris Elba as the voice of Knuckles, and Colleen O'Shaughnessey as the voice of Tails. Knuckle Down Featurette (2022 action/adventure / comedy Which Sonic games have the best animation? Which have the worst? What makes for good animation in a Sonic game to begin with? Join me on this retrospective journey through ALL of them and let's find out movie), starring James Marsden and Jim Carrey and directed by Jeff Fowler as reviewed by Charlie and chaomix SomecallmeJohnny Jackson Cybershell bickuribox12 and splashdash. Madness, Music Theory: Sonic Frontiers (No Spoilers)
Alex Yard & Knuckles Fastest trailer, 1 Million Percent Muscle Man, that footage of Sonic doing taxes! Knuckles The Echidna is a character that many Sonic Fans hold dearly, and for good reason. He was such an incredible character and the first of Sonic's rivals to have this level of Complexity about him. Unfortunately, it was (for some reason) Let's listen to one of Sonic's shortest and sweetest Most Underrated Soundtrack decided that this character should be cast aside, and turned into the comic relief for the series so that the Kids could laugh at him He's a hedgehog! He doesn't owe taxes! A retrospective on the music of Sonic, discussing the main series' evolution in sound, its impact, and its legacy. Classic Era Sonic 1, 2, 3&K, CD Green Eyes Era Sonic Adventure 1&2, Heroes, Shadow Modern Era Sonic 06, listen again, it's good. This is the music of Sonic Runners! Unleashed, Colors, Generations Conclusion 2022's Sonic the Hedgehog 2 continues the story of 2020's surprise hit Sonic the Hedgehog. There's a lot to like in the sequel, from in-form Jim Carrey to new characters like Knuckles and Tails. But just like in the first movie, the most amazing thing about Sonic 2 Sonic Frontiers titan Sage Story Plot Kronos Chaos Island Eggman
ALtheBoi, or AL the Boi to some, talks about some stuff in the vid, like Sonic, Eggman, Sonic vs Eggman, sonic unleashed opening intro, Sonic 3 & Knuckles, Sonic the hedgehog, Shadow the hedgehog, Knuckles the Echidna, Amy Rose, Sonic character, Sonic character study, Sonic video essay, Sonic video, sonic game, sonic lore, sonic story, sonic plot, Sonic Adventure, Sonic Adventure 2 Battle, Super Sonic, Sonic Unleashed, Sonic Colors, Kid Cudi - Stars In The Sky, Sonic Forces, Sonic Story, Tails, Miles Tails Prower, Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Frontiers Story, Amy in Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Prime, that Netflix show, Silver the hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog Movie 2 , peak fiction, filled with so much fan service, so based, omg, best video game movie adaptations of all time, so many of the basic Easter eggs, really smart, so based and red pilled, even Schaffrillas Productions likes it, The Cosmonaut Variety Hour and Chris Stuckmann and Vailskibum94 too, Arlo didn't tho, 24 Frames of Nick was confusing
Sonic The Hedgehog 2 featured the introduction of Tails and Knuckles, kicking off the main Sonic formula and being one of the best video game movies ever. Meanwhile, The Sonic Movie 2's post-credits scene introduces a new character that will change the tone for The Sonic Movie 3!
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Go do that thing you're behind on, or brush your teeth and get some sleep, take care of yourself, cya :)

[@ALtheBoi]

LIKE THE VID IF YOU'RE COOL A couple postscript notes: ● I am super not qualified to talk in depth about a topic like this, so excuse any mistakes on the music theory department. Please correct me and/or add some notes if you feel inclined For this exact reason, this video only uses leitmotifs as a viachle for me to talk about other stuff I know about, and I intentionally don't go into shit I'm not an expert at ● The purpose of this video isn’t to literally cover every single leitmotif, it’s to show how each game the utilizes leitmotifs and study them, with my own interpretation of each of them thrown in, with that being said- ● I only covered leitmotifs that have originated from the games, so sadly no shows and movies, even though there’s plenty to talk about, X especially ● It’s very unlikely that I covered every single leitmotif ever, so please let me know the ones I missed if you’ve picked up any! As always, thanks for watching!💜

[@marcotanooky9651]

To be fair, I'm not sure if it's physically possible to NOT like this video, or your channel in general

[@Kini_Nui]

Hey um, where's the button, that let's you give multiple likes on a single video? For real though: biggest kudos to LVNDR VIBES and more than just thank you to you of course. You've got this "confident demeanor in the face of complete uncertainty"-thing down to a T. And it's always gratifying to get to understand something or someone you already care a great deal for, on an even more intimate level. U da Boi!

[@Kaplykos]

It was an *amazing* video, AL. As the big fucking nerd of soundtracks that I am and sharing very, very similar tastes with you, this video felt like an absolute treat to me. Almost 40 minutes that flew by without even noticing. No wonder it takes you that long to release videos, there's clearly a huge amount of work behind this. BUT, I do have a nitpick. I'm gonna ruin your joke here at 18:14 because Forces DOES use Eggman's theme, although very briefly. You can find it in the beginning of track called "Cutscene - Mega Death Egg Robot"

[@arrownaut6820]

As someone who has studied music for a while, You did an amazing job. I really love how you made this video. The Editing is So Good!! The Aesthetics are Wonderful!! I really hope one day I can make videos like this!

[@RS-rz4ll]

You are so UNDERRATED!! What the hell

[@woofn5918]

Finally, a nearly-40 minute video telling my why I should like Sonic Music more than I did before

[@I-like-Hugs-and-Fluffy-boys]

After this nearly-40 minute video: Soo... it worked !

[@Hugo-yz1vb]

This and the Understanding The Music of Sonic the Hedgehog video are the ultimate exposition to this franchise's music

[@raygod7810]

and some of that 40 mins was crushed by crush 40 am i right?

[@woofn5918]

@@raygod7810 crush 40 must love their leitmotifs

[@Jax-is-sped]

Despite 06 being a technical disaster you can definitely tell that that SEGA really tried to make 06 a good game by looking at the soundtrack. Everything is a certified banger.

[@senritsujumpsuit6021]

The game may be an enjoyable torture sim the concepts an music amazing am begging for Silver to show up again I would love seeing him encounter Sage

[@Avriel_Mimiga]

all the sonic ost's (not Dark Brotherhood) are bangers

[@sakuradabp6400]

@@senritsujumpsuit6021 He did show up in Forc-

[@senritsujumpsuit6021]

@@sakuradabp6400 oh God not that butchering of a quote

[@Kintsugi23]

Sonic 06 may be a terrible game, but it has one of the best soundtracks in gaming. Why, yes. This *is* the hill I plan to die on.

[@Gigathyn]

Sonic Adventure 2 also has a leitmotif: Live & Learn. It shows up remixed in the intro to SA2 Battle. The main riff plays in the menu music. The music for the story recaps has a slowed down version of the main riff. The Biolizard theme has the main riff distorted and slowed. Then the actual Live & Learn plays during the final boss.

[@tacosanchez1686]

It also plays in This Way Out (Prison lane), if you pay close attention!

[@uwotm8205]

not to mention super shadow’s theme in shth

[@gameringly8916]

And when sonic reappears after using chaos control for the first time and charges into final rush

[@Gigathyn]

@@gameringly8916 that's the same as the menu and story recap music

[@jurassicarkjordanisgreat1778]

sonic mania has alot of leitmotifs too

[@sansmans101]

I like how in every time merlina talks, sonic just says “huh?”

[@NeonStudios763]

His ass was not listening lol

[@KimiOmega]

That entire video was such a treat. I was expecting "Supporting Me" to show up, with that creepy, disjointed take on "Live and Learn", like a twisted prototype of that song.

[@notmisterepicface4308]

I get teary eyed when “Live Life” reaches its climax as a response to Merlina’s fears. God I love Sonic and the Black Knight’s music.

[@skyrimwarrior-sc8dw]

Same, I swear it's one of the best of all time.

[@senritsujumpsuit6021]

People laughed at the end of the game but I found the dumbass line to be like the bad laugh in that one Final Fantasy game it was meant to sound off in order to break tension

[@Ollie.H-2301]

Black Knight and '06 have the best soundtracks in the whole series!

[@nintendweeb]

It’s so interesting how Sonic Unleashed is I think the only Sonic game to have an instrumental main theme in addition to an entirely different main vocal theme. It makes me wonder if Endless Possibilities was a late addition or had its main melody changed at the last minute.

[@ALtheBoi]

I thought about that too, it's an oddity! Couldn't get anything concrete so I didn't spend time on it

[@voidenterprises]

As flawed as it is, I’ve always liked the idea that Endless Possibilities represents Super Sonic, and the incredible power of the Chaos Emeralds. Its super flawed, don’t get me wrong, but a song about limitless potential, just makes too much sense to not associate them.

[@theeternalsuperstar3773]

29:41 Another thing to mention is about this specific motif is its overwhelming domination. In the end, despite that little song and dance that Sonic and Eggman played and Sonic's initial victories, it was all planned. Eggman played Sonic like a fiddle to achieve his goal. Eggman was always in control.

[@bsharpmajorscale]

"Oh no, not me: I never lost control. You're face to face with the man who broke the world" -David Bowie, slightly paraphrased

[@spider13593]

man, sonic franchise is genius.

[@koentje8415]

Another thing with these motifs is nostalgia. There were a few times during this video where I almost shed a tear. It brings up emotions, and double so if those emotions are tied to your childhood.

[@zincpodzzz]

Oh for sure, music is such a powerful force in video games. It goes unnoticed sometimes by general audiences, but man music can make a level, or story scene, or even a menu such a memorable experience.

[@spider59er35]

_Drowning theme intensifies_ 😭😭😭

[@VirgoVeg]

@@spider59er35 the drowning theme gave me anxiety when it came on lol. as i kid i was terrified of water levels so even with that theme nostalgia affected me

[@Keegstar]

Same loo

[@joshuaowens2418]

His World and Knight of the Wind are my favorites

[@samquik]

Finally, someone else acknowledges Sonic 06 went hard with its leitmotifs. I flipped out when I realized on my own that Silver's Dreams of an Absolution is in a bunch of his cutscene tracks

[@hydrocityshark]

I can’t wait for Frontiers to add its own motifs. I think I’m here is pretty good now, but an orchestral version would hook me even more.

[@ultracommander8368]

Loggers.

[@mechashadow]

It already has Planet Wisp's in there in Kronos' Track..just saying.

[@cdscissor]

Then this should be a treat for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoKUfXSfnJinbMk They played a Sonic Frontiers Medley, and yes, an orchestral version of I'm Here is there.

[@aadithecool448]

I'M HEREEEEE REACHING FAAR ACROSS THESE NEW FRONTIEEERS WITH MYYY LIIFE I FIIGHT THIS FEEEEAR IN MY HAAAANDS, I HOLD THE ONES I LOOVE WALK FORWAARD THROOUGH THE COOLD DAAAAWN ALWAYS TO NEW HORIZOOOONS

[@mrfunny1917]

@@mechashadow wait really?

[@KimberlyFaith260]

This is an amazing video. I would argue that Sonic Unleashed’s soundtrack is the most complete out of any Sonic soundtrack, not only because the music is incredibly well composed, but also how it works within the story itself. The cutscene music are great examples of this, but one music piece many people seem to overlook is Eggmanland - Day. In this music piece, it is overwhelmed with artificial and electronic sounds, mostly from the synths, but there is a faint piano melody buried underneath it. It also contains many of the notes similar to Sonic’s leitmotif in Sonic Unleashed. The only natural element is being drowned out by the artificiality of the situation. Seen as how Sonic is the only natural creature in Eggmanland, he would be represented by the piano, a very natural sounding instrument (as well as piano having a very heavy presence in Sonic’s theme in Unleashed and the game in general). But because the piano is so faint compared to all of the other instruments, just from the music alone, you can feel the intensity of the stage. With so many synths piled on top of each other, and then one piano trying to work its way through, it is almost as if Sonic is overwhelmed by the seriousness and intensity from the stage and he is trying to push through the danger everywhere. At certain moments, the piano works contrasts yet compliments the synths, almost as if Sonic is wall-jumping when the piano notes change, then dodging enemies or missiles in an ever changing, threatening environment. Just goes to show how important the music is to tell a story, and also goes to show how a game with a phenomenal soundtrack also has one of the greatest stories the franchise could ever have.

[@dangarbagecanman]

Hey, maybe that means the guitar in Eggmanland - Night is used to represent the Werehog

[@KimberlyFaith260]

@@dangarbagecanman Very well could be.

[@thegeth4293]

Eggmanland day was one of my favorite tracks because of its uneasy feeling like your in a place you shouldnt have allowed to be built, but sonic had other things on his plate and had to ingore eggman, and now he's paying for it by being in the belly of the beast. And i instantly thought of e102 gammas theme wheb you mentioned a synth and piano in competition. But in gammas case the 2 are working in conjunction and taking turns being the lead. Showing that the animal inside and the robot around it are in harmony.

[@Artistic__]

And on top of all of that, the track absolutely SLAPS.

[@Lochlin.B]

As someone who calls themselves a musician, has listened to several Sonic soundtracks consistently and thought I knew all that these OST’s had to offer…you genuinely shocked me with some of these reveals. These composers are more genius then I already thought they were! You did INSANELY well here, Al. This editing is next level, your writing still continues to be great, even the sound design in this video is edited and balanced brilliantly. Great work, you created a masterpiece. Added to my favourites. (Yes, I actually use the favourites playlist.)

[@simplycharles5341]

I added it to my favourites playlist too bro!! 😂

[@Lochlin.B]

@@simplycharles5341 Nice! Good to know the favourites playlist lives on.

[@AtlasNovack]

I got goosebumps when Gamma's theme played. 25 years later still

[@irkenpony17]

I legit cried knowing what was going to be used for returning leitmotif, that being his self sacrifice

[@aryandairshad]

I always thought this was an inherent problem with the franchise. As incredibly diverse the soundtracks are, there's never the ONE song/theme you could associate with Sonic (most iconic would probably be Green Hill, but even that's not Sonic's theme). But when you said that Sonic's theme is whatever the hell the games WANT his theme to be (in service of the story), it blew my mind open. Another banger video! I hope one day to be able to reach your level of god tier editing!

[@hwanniggles187]

Actually most people associate Sonic with Live and Learn more than anything

[@Xenobork]

Sonic's theme will always be his SA1 version of It Doesn't Matter imo

[@NazoCrystal]

interestingly, i’ve been having the same thoughts about the mario franchise’s music

[@skorupigo5544]

Did you people like not watch the video

[@bundo8740]

I made it 12 minutes in and thought I was done with the video until I got to the "What's Sonic's theme" part because the video was so well made and edited up to that point I was like "How can there be more, that already felt like 30 minutes" nice work man, you never cease to amaze with the production quality, keep up the good work dude 👌

[@minecraftgravityguy]

Yeah this guy’s videos are that rare example of things that feel longer AND better because you enjoy them, instead of the other way around it. Kinda like having a great an unforgettable journey or something along those lines.

[@thestarryeyedobserver]

this. only a few minutes in and it felt like the video was gonna end lol

[@bundo8740]

@@thestarryeyedobserver Vid is lil more than a few minutes, but I get ya.

[@bundo8740]

@@minecraftgravityguy On the money, was basically my point just explained better, lol

[@adrianemanuel7121]

Thought I was gonna watch a bit of beginning and come back to it later, but everything was so masterfully edited and discussed (plus the music goosebumps kicked in) that I had to finish it in one sitting before moving on with my day.

[@jaydodsworth6316]

HES BACKKK!!

[@Nascarfan1896]

I read this in the sonic movie Battista's voice lol.

[@KingKristian456]

Papa's gotta brand new stache!

[@casualwiifan]

@@Nascarfan1896 Lmao same

[@ultracommander8368]

HES BACKKKKK (Say it like how Eggman Did in sonic two).

[@Eldoofus]

@@ultracommander8368 Eggman didn't say that... I don't think so

[@TheAlphazoneYT]

There’s many others that people often overlook. For example, the level “Space Gadget” from Shadow the hedgehog (2005) shares a leitmotif with Sonic & the Black Knight’s result screen theme. And Shadow’s signature “I am all of me” Motif appears in the last section of Crush 40’s version of “All Hail Shadow.” Also you should do one of these videos on the Crash Bandicoot series! It’s full of Leitmotifs!

[@tivvy2vs21]

Also, green hill zone in silvers theme

[@TheAlphazoneYT]

@@tivvy2vs21 Yes! I love that one🔥

[@gan0nz0ra]

i am all of me is also in the beginning of never turn back!!

[@Syrupsyke]

I love the editing, my favorite moment so far is "I am immortal, you cannot defea-" *instant cut to death*

[@chocov1233]

I never realized the connection between Lost Valley and Motar Canyon's themes, that's awesome. It reminds me of the dark reprise of "Live and Learn" in "Supporting Me".

[@core6831]

Ever since I learned about them from Undertale i've been in love with leitmotifs, this video encapsules everything I love about them perfectly. Amazing job as usual!

[@saturnz13]

You should've been there when Homestuck was a thing. Radiation was the master of it.

[@Laiser]

I know nothing about music theory. I didn't know what a leitmotif was until this video, yet still... goddamn, this might be the BEST Sonic video ever. Not even exaggerating. A unique topic plus absolutely insane editing.

[@raechuu4887]

the music in '06 never fails to make me tear up, especially with that solaris boss fight. that game truly had so much potential

[@moontheyo]

As a Sonic fan who wants to be a musician and learn more about music theory, thank you for this video. Great video as always 🎼

[@melphy-kyunp2903]

you know what they say, we live and learn

[@leg4ci242]

@@melphy-kyunp2903 you know what they say, the more the merrier

[@Aiham]

I love that analysis at 13:20. That’s soooo fitting

[@enchilordo8562]

I’m so glad many more people lately have been talking about Sonic 06 in a positive light. Sure, it’s not the best game in the world, but that doesn’t mean it should be shunned to video game hell.

[@officialFredDurstfanclub]

Another great example is the OST for the Saturn port of 3D Blast. Every single level theme + the title screen music contains a leitmotif of the game’s vocal track You’re My Hero. That one little sequence of notes goes through like 10 different genres throughout the game. Calypso, orchestral, jazz, ambient, techno, circus music, it’s crazy

[@uziraptor5122]

this is one of the hardest videos i’ve ever seen in my life. your editing is absolutely insane and i can feel the passion you have for this franchise just in the first few minutes. fr made me tear up at a lot of the unleashed bits, that game changed my entire childhood and i’m so glad more people are giving it the respect it’s always deserved

[@-KORAL_ZERO]

I think the fact that Sonic’s leitmotifs are varied resembles him in this way: he is a free spirited guy. He moves and thinks like the wind, always changing. Eggman’s doesn’t change because he is more about controlling. Everything staying put in his power. Anyways, that is just what I think. Great video! Incredibly edited! Definitely subbed!

[@BraviaGames]

19:48 You're right it's NOT the best advice, BUT it's not *bad* advice. Smileing releases a chemical in your brain that can help fight off stress. Even a fake smile can trick your brain into thinking you're happy. Sonic's not off the mark here. Regardless, this video, as you already know, is a masterpiece and the section on Sonic's leitmotif helped me so much with my Sonic game project. I think you know why you're the GOAT right? Keep being yourself AL, and live life to the fullest.

[@LukeStation]

I really genuinely hope Frontiers has a great leitmotif, we haven't really heard much of it in the OST and I'm concerned LOL Great video!

[@DE23]

Its cool that Collision Chaos has sort of become a motif for Amy with it being used in both Mania Adventures and Origins' cutscenes

[@Pufftarot]

Every time I come back to this video I just appreciate it more and more. Like holy shit, the way you let the music speak for itself and use colour to back up the audio is just fuckin' MAGIC. YOU HAVE MAGIC HANDS.

[@LokiThePug]

I feel like it fits that sonic's theme changes while eggman doesn't, in overall sonic has to adapt to the newest situations laid upon him, making him change and eventually grow, eggman work as this everlasting but still challenging wall, he is and is mostly the final boss, that's never gonna change, of course it changes from time to time depending on the issue at hand, but it's overall eggman vs sonic, sonic has to change his ways but eggman mostly stays the same ol villain operating his new toy in order to finish off THE hero, Sonic.

[@cykablyat7528]

0:17 the fact they used the part of the chorus that literally says “nothing can stop you now” fits so well with the scene.

[@skippy2k7]

Way to make this topic across a 30+ year franchise so easily digestible. Also this editing is PEAK! Good stuff!!

[@firesoul5943]

finished it and oh man a banquet, a delicious banquet it's just as the Gaia manuscripts foretold

[@jeffreyalphonso]

It's currently 3am and I thought I'd go to bed listening to this but instead I'm cheesing hard as shit because you reaffirmed why this series has the best music ever

[@CrossOutBryce]

Constantly in awe of how you blend an almost AMV-like style with the more traditional informative video essay style into your video editing! It really keeps a fun, energetic flow and energy throughout this whole thing.

[@Mikanookie]

all of these honestly makes me even more excited for Frontiers than I already have, because man - Ohtani is just a class of his own with how he makes these soundtracks

[@idkJuun]

Holy shit, he finally stopped being a Twitter shitposter.

[@ALtheBoi]

IT'S CALLED NETWORKING

[@OfficialTCK]

I've never seen your channel before but there's a reason why KZbin decided to recommend it to me in literally the first slot on the homepage within 4 hours of upload. There's also a reason why I dropped everything I was doing and watched the whole thing there and then after just the first few seconds until 1am. With the Ohtani soundtracks meaning so much to me and having listened to them in great detail myself it was so satisfying to see someone else point out everything I love so much about them with as much passion as me, especially Unleashed. Seriously good job on this, I've never been so sure of a sub before. 39 minutes 41 seconds well spent and I will definitely watch it again.

[@MidosujiSen]

Very cool video topic idea. I absolutely adore the His World leitmotif in 06, I think that melody is genuinely masterful.

[@Triangly]

This is informative and I find it more useful than anything I learned in my university so far, because by 90% of my brain is pure Sonic 👍

[@flamingoodness4923]

Great video as usual! Just wanted to mention one thing about 06 I’m surprised you didn’t mention. Although it isn’t exactly a leitmotif, sonic, shadow, and silver’s main themes are all a different style of music. At the time, rap was the most popular style of music, shadow was a character from the past who was asleep up until present day, and he is a character made when rock was the most prominent style of sonic music, and silver’s techno music gave off a futuristic feel. In short, shadow represents the past, sonic represents the present, and silver represents the future.

[@gggsh7]

this is also in line in what they say to solaris Silver says something along the lines of "i will protect the future" Sonic says "for the present day, the here and now that you've stolen, time to take it back" Shadow says something along the lines of "i will release you from the past"

[@flamingoodness4923]

@@gggsh7 oh wow didn’t know that part! Sonic 06 did everything it could to emphasis the past present and future theme in cool ways!

[@hexhub3826]

Sonic 06, Sonic Colors and Sonic Unleashed have contains music that is so impeccable, peerless, incomparable, and finally... Nostalgic.

[@moss2779]

Fantastic video! Something I thought was interesting I wanted to point out was about Eggman's leitmotif from 06 not being in Forces. It actually is! It's in the cutscene right before the final boss! A rare W for Forces!

[@jjangjin3914]

More people need to see this video The editing, the quality, the sound, the transitions, whatever colour/contrast editing you did to the footage to change the atmosphere? This was such an incredible watch experience, I'm so glad KZbin did good for once and recommended me this video, I'm subscribing this instant! Really looking forward to more videos from you in the future!

[@blueberry-jrpfx779]

Almost 40 minutes, holy- The wait is definitely worth I can’t wait to chill out and freak out about the topic and editing 🧡

[@lag9687]

This vid made me have an even greater appreciation for sonic soundtracks than I already had. Leitmotifs really can make important sonic moments all the more memorable and cathartic. Keep up the good work Al!

[@kingbash6466]

I know they aren't official, but Sonic Before and After the Sequel's soundtracks are fully of little leitmotifs from other Sonic media that'll make you feel out when you notice them. For example, in Hilltop Heights Acts 2 and 3, you can notice a bit of the Green Hill melody in it or in Foliage Furnace Act 1, South Island theme from the OVA appears near the end of the song.

[@sushirabit5624]

The recognition you get for your amazing works is far too little. You're bound to go viral one of these days.

[@UltimateTS64]

The editing, writing, comedy, and analysis here is ridiculously good. Left a like

[@iwillendyou4570]

I literally almost died because I couldn’t go another day without seeing your insanely polished editing, true story

[@sash_iii]

man, i just love videos like this, they remind me why I like the music of these games so much :) Each new motif that came up had me pointing at the screen in recognition, and you do such an great job explaining this cool aspect of sonic's music and sound design!

[@ash3075]

These videos remind me why I like sonic games so much! And the music. It's gotta be some of the best music out there.

[@vizualeater]

40 minutes of insane editing! Incredible work!

[@WeeAddy]

Editing on this was stellar. I keep re-listening to the Black Knight soundtrack recently and just miss how prevalent leitmotif's were in Sonic. Here's hoping Frontiers and beyond bring them back, they add so much to the depth of the character and game, and cement that staying power each game has. Thank you for making a video showing it off in full force!

[@Pryexel]

The editing in this video is amazing! Really great job! I also love you theory as to why Sonic doesn't have a consistent main theme.

[@Akkurz]

When I watch KZbin I very rarely ever say "This video is amazing" but all through this one I kept saying it over and over. The editing, the jokes, everything kept me watching. Amazing vid man.

[@Kayrito]

i REALLY love the color isolation effect for whoever's theme is currently playing. amazing video 🙏💖

[@BLUECHAOSEMERALD_]

30-50 minute Sonic videos that talk about the most random things that you never realized had such a big impact on your viewing of the game is my favorite genre of videos on KZbin

[@aizab9652]

the quality of your video essays is always so insane. yet another cinematic masterpiece

[@vDREEGONv]

The sonic 06 section shows why 06 even with all it's flaws still manages to be some of the best Sonic has offered to the world. It may be hated by a lot of people, but I can never get myself to hate such a epic game that gives me goosebumps when I listen to the final boss theme. 06 is a good example of a fantastic concept with an unfortunate execution.

[@Faceu7745]

Project 06 is what the game could've been.

[@Schnort]

I wish Sonic 06 was a good game bro 😭

[@Alovon]

Would love a music breakdown of Frontiers as that OST sounds like absolute FIRE so far

[@Frett]

I literally can come to your videos and learn so much about editing, and gain so much inspiration to edit. All while listening to you talk about a franchise I love.

[@coyotix]

Unleashed, SA2, and Black Knight take the cake for me when it comes to music. You can get the vibes of each location, from Windmill Isle to deep space. The Biolizard's distorted version of Live and Learn gives you chills. And Black Knight could just play the same song with different instruments to achieve the same thing for each of the Knights of the Round Table, but it gives them each their own theme to match their counterpart in the main universe, and it feels so fantastic.

[@carckles454]

There’s actually a really hard to spot leitmotif in E-102 Gamma’s main theme from Sonic Adventure. The song’s buildup in the beginning plays the same notes as Sonic 3’s final boss.

[@akamag6787]

your editing is genuinely so inspiring man, one of the most underrated channels ive seen

[@Adam_Zielinski]

Worth the wait, can't wait to rewatch dozens of times for editing inspiration

[@cryptic9510]

This video is exactly what I have been looking for. I want to apply this technique in my own game songs and I learnt a lot from this video. Thank you for making this!

[@alexgiles9031]

I swear the way he edits and makes videos is absolutely heavenly, and the transitions are so satisfying, whatever this guy gets payed he needs a frickin' raise

[@thunderbro7]

The editing on this video is absolutely insane and honestly so is the story-telling a flow of the video.

[@samchatsc]

your editing is inspirational as hell, so cinematic i love it, the kind of editing i'd love to be able to do one day

[@chibi491]

This video is INCREDIBLE. You deserve WAY more views for this, it's obvious there was a ton of time and effort poured into the project. Quickest sub of my life.

[@massimodalessandro108]

YOU CAN'T JUMPSCARE ME LIKE THAT WITH GAMMA'S DEATH, I'M GONNA CRY

[@shovelclaws]

something about your videos just fuckin hits different. your editing style, your writing, the topics you cover... all of it just hits home. stuff like yours is why im proud to call myself a sonic fan. great video as always!

[@gibehbarinque1370]

17:27 in my religious perspective, I can see this part included in Mephiles' theme represents strength and overcoming of any evil temptation. Like a triumphant part that will only play when you finally overcome an urge to do something that isn't right. To combat that temptation with your wisdom and knowledge God has given you.

[@vladc137]

I have newfound respect not just for previous music tracks I didn't appreciate, but for the ambition of Sonic's music in general. This is an extra layer to the series that I don't think many people ever discuss, which I feel makes this video requires viewing for any Sonic fan. And of course the stellar content being discussed is matched by remarkable editing. This video is quintessential ALtheBoi, and the biggest peak Sonictube will see... until your next upload.

[@Studio_4]

Elise’s leitmotif literally made me tear up. I didn’t play 06. This was the first time I heard it. Ohtani is GOATED.

[@Schnort]

Listen to the accordion song (that's its genuine name) from 06 👍

[@reapsd1i931]

4 seconds in and it’s already a banger, how do he do it Anyway, mick gordon needs to make the music for shadow

[@SamUnderStars]

As a music nerd, I really appreciation the existence of this video. I was waiting for one like this since 2017. But, can I just say, the EDITING! JEEZ SO GOOD.

[@aahiljcat]

Everytime I beat unleashed and hear this 38:41 it feels so good because I feel relaxed after beating a really difficult and fun game

[@curetapwater5604]

I loooove leitmotifs and I looooooove Sonic the Hedgehog, and this video was fantastic! Aside from All Hail Shadow, my favorite usage of leitmotifs in Sonic is how Live & Learn was used. I love how you said that the theme of each game represents his journey in that game and therefore him, because to me the lyrics of Live & Learn seem to be from Sonic's perspective but are about Shadow's growth as a person. So, would that mean that Live & Learn, and therefore SA2, is about how the journey changes Shadow? It gets built up on the title screen and various points in the game until it finally comes to a head when they both go Super, and we get to hear those lyrics about changing for the better. And then!!!! In Shadow the Hedgehog (2005) when he goes Super!!!!! In the moment that represents him finally understanding who he is and embracing his whole self!!!!! It goes from I Am... All of Me and TURNS INTO LIVE & LEARN the MOMENT he turns gold and then my brain collapses.

[@warmbun5937]

your videos never dissapoint man theyre so well done :)

[@duccoreal]

I watched this with my eyes swollen from going outside and touching grass (never again) and after watching this video, I can say that my eyes are no longer swollen. AL you cured my allergies, thank you for uploading. Nah Fr tho AL this was MAGNIFICENT. watched it all the way through just impressed by how much work was put into each edit and how eye opening the reveal was for every leitmotif I never caught, and how they impact their respective games’ narrative and themes. You’re unmatched dawg, blowing me away every time. 🔥

[@Seckenn]

the ULTIMATE example of a content i feel bad for not paying for it dude you are just insane, watched the whole thing

[@breadslice4375]

Shoutouts to video essays on sonic music, gotta be one of my favorite genders

[@iszac]

Dude, I'm still amazed how much your editing has evolved over the years, everything is so stylish and alive! And the subject itself was presented just as well, you could upload your next video in 10 years that will still be an event to me, I just feel inspired by your work every time I watch it, HOW IT'S SO GOOD!?

[@isaiahvayne]

As a musician who fell in love with this music... I'm going back to listen to all of it again~!! THANK YOU ~🤩😍

[@maxrelax5940]

28:35 HOLY WHAT AMAZING EDITING. u basically made a visual leitmotif (if thats even a thing) to transition to the most hype segment of unleashed's cutscene. and the logo movement synced impossibly perfectly with that amazing ost wtf how are you doing this. the entire pacing of this video was so incredible as always, i just cant describe how much i love ur vids. ty for putting so much effort into your content

[@deltaphoenix8616]

Loved how each example of Merlina’s leitmotif was followed by Sonic saying huh 😭

[@felipegodoy5342]

THE EDITING AND NARRATIVE SEQUENCE THIS VIDEO HAS IS PEAK BRO. Literally gave me chills everytime a new leitmotif came in

[@Moonlightingale]

I've never clicked on a video faster. I've been waiting for more from you, and this video definitely delivered and was worth the wait. You captured just how unique and godly Sonic music is with excellent explanation and flawless editing (as usual). I never thought I could appreciate Sonic music more, but this video has opened my eyes to the little details I never knew needed appreciation.

[@RightNowsReverie]

This video not only does great with "show don't tell", but also has the best usage (or at least the best to me, I haven't seen any videos that uses it this good) of "show don't tell". With leitmotifs, yeah you could go on for 3 hours talking about all the times it uses. But that's not what you need. You just simply need to listen. How it changes and what impact it brings

[@chaosproject91]

32:04 And here, we see the unmentioned leitmotif of Solaris. In Sonic Unleashed. Someone forgot to scrub that part from Eggman's theme when they carried it over to the next game. Makes me laugh every time.

[@Miffelmesh]

This is such a fantastically edited video intersplicing the music with the cutscene dialogue and your own voiceover, it's fantastic and all compliments each other so well

[@JackOfAllGames164]

absolutely fantastic video, if you ever do a sequel i'd love to see a segment on the live and learn motif which shows up throughout SA2 and Shadow the Hedgehog, like in Supporting Me and Super Shadow's theme

[@KookieStar]

This video is absolutely a legendary masterpiece! Not only you gave more reason to appreciate the Sonic songs even more as whole, but also the editing and the explanation of each piece makes it even better. I do agree that His World is by far Sonic's most iconic theme. Not only it represents him as the personification of freedom but also everyone's freedom. It's not only him but everyone along with him, all the people he saved, all the people he was able to change, everything. I hate that people badmouth so much Sonic '06 so much, even they it has it cool times and great music. I know it wasn't handled very well in terms of gameplay or story wise in some parts, but the game is enjoyable in some aspects, we got Mephiles which is by far one of the greatest Sonic villains ever made.

[@dylanracho3536]

Man that black knight section really puts into perspective how confused sonic is for most of his stories

[@ALtheBoi]

_H U H ?_