"Live Gloriously" (Civilization VII Main Theme) by Christopher Tin

The lyrics to "Live Gloriously" are from four ancient epics, all of which carry the same message:
Do something magnificent before you die, and your name will live forever.
Civ VII's innovative three-act structure inspired me to create a new piece that was actually composed of three separate musical themes (The Iliad, Beowulf, Ramayana), with a fourth text (Popul Vuh) serving as a musical bridge. Together with the Civ VII creative team, we developed the musical concept to align with the game's core narrative concept: that history is a global story of human achievement, and that the lessons of the past can still inspire our lives in the present.
The lyrics:
THE ILIAD (Ancient Greek)
me man aspoudi ge kai akleios apoloimen
mega rhexas ti kai essomenoisi puthesthai
(Let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle,
but let me first do some great thing)
BEOWULF (Old English)
Ure æghwylc sceal ende
gebidan worolde lifes;
wyrce se þe mote
domes ær deaþe
(Each of us shall endure
this world’s life until the end;
let he who is able
achieve fame before death.)
POPOL VUH (K’iche’)
Nab'e chel iwe,
Nab'e nay puch kixq'ijiloxik
Rumal saqil al,
Saqil k'ajol.
Ta chuxoq.
Mawi chisachik i b'i'.
(You shall be the first to arise,
and you shall be the first to be worshipped
by the sons of the noblemen,
by the civilized vassals.
So it shall be!
Your names shall not be lost.)
RAMAYANA (Sanskrit)
ihaiva nidhanam yamaah
mahaa prasthaanam eva vaa
(Here let us all for death prepare,
Or on the last great journey fare.)
--------------------------------
CREDITS
"Live Gloriously"
Performed by Crouch End Festival Chorus and FILMHarmonic Orchestra
Choir Conductor: David Temple
Session Producer: Claire Long
Recording Engineer: Rupert Coulson
Pro Tools Operator: Gianluca Massimo
Assistant Engineer: Alex Ferguson
Recorded at AIR Studios
Orchestra Conductor: Andy Brick
Session Producer: Geoff Knorr
Recording Engineer: Jakub Hadraba
Assistant Recording Engineers: Čeněk Kotzmann, Jan Krček, Ivan Zbíral
Pro Tools Operator: Čeněk Kotzmann
Music Contractor and Recording Manager: Petr Pýcha
Orchestra Librarian: Tomáš Kirschner
Recorded at Dvorak Hall, Rudolfinum, Prague, CZ
Music Prep: Theo Schmitt
Lyric Consultation: Cat Manning, Shiv Subramaniam
Mixing Engineer: Rich Breen
Produced by Christopher Tin
--------------------------------
Crouch End Festival Chorus
SOPRANOS
Susannah Bayliss
Pilar Bolado
Becca Budgett
Maddie Ellis
Helen Garrison
Sarah Gilbert
Genevieve Helsby
Rachel Johnson
Tara Munnelly
Sarah Niblock
Emily Soppet
Ùna Yates
ALTOS
Tina Burnett
Bethany Burrow
Sarah Elliot
Natalie Fine
Ela Harrison
Alice Jeffery
Paula Miller
Caroline Milton
Diana Parkinson
Karen Stead
TENORS
Bob Bishop
Sean Denny
Martin Dowling
Matt Griffin
Clive Seale
Guy Shirm
John Vernon
Craig Wilkie
BASSES
Hugh Bowden
Michael Brookes
Nick Buxton
Robert Gorrie
Geoffrey Kemball-Cook
Duncan McAlpine
John Mindlin
Bryn Popham
Phil Rashleigh
Peter Reddingius
Christopher Wetherall
Chorus Director: David Temple
Chorus Management: Davina Ross-Anderson

[@ooferine504]

Interesting how this piece reflects a more turbulent time rather than the pure optimism of Dream of Flight. Hopefully we'll all get to see when things brighten up again

[@ciaotiziocaius4899]

civ always reflects its time

[@thatoneflygon8291]

Civ 7 has a darker tone than 6 in general, what with the central theme being empires rising and falling as opposed to 6 focusing on humanity advancing over the ages

[@ashtonpeterson4618]

I didn't care for this theme as much on my first listen. I have loved the hopeful, inquisitive, or adventurous themes of the past. But yes, a "darker" but resilient theme is good.

[@lyonvensa]

Looking at the chosen words for the lyrics, it feels more about living a great legacy before the end of your time. An empire, something you build because you believe in, to leave your name in the annals of history that lasts well into the future.

[@steinijg]

Humanity has a bright future and also many struggles ahead. The future is bright!

[@darnpotato]

Taking these lyrics from some of the most important literature, what a clever move!

[@doug3487]

Christopher does this all the time, and it's amazing.

[@laritest]

Who is the text from?

[@novelseeker4410]

@@laritest Different verses come from different sources. The text in the video (the smallest one, below the translation) tells you where each is from.

[@julianosvonskingrad7009]

That is one thing. But creating absolutely stunning, perfectly fitting music to it is even more brillant.

[@Tiagotyranitar]

Wow tanks​@novelseeker4410

[@bmobmo6438]

He's done it again. Another legendary theme from the best video game composer.

[@ElysiumCreator]

If Christopher Tin isn’t a Great Musician in Civ 7, we riot

[@wesleycolemanmusic]

Indeed!

[@LordManer]

Yes

[@MyungganKi]

For sure

[@TheBathrobeWizard]

I'll get the torches ready. Who's bringing the fire

[@Aresydatch]

Notice something shared between every single Figure present in Civ VI + VII? They've all Passed away I think he should be only in as Immortalization after his death

[@SoapiePlays]

Glorious as ever (pun not intended)! I also get the sense that Baba Yetu represents the human spirituality, Sogno di Volare represents human ingenuity, and now Live Gloriously represents human valour. Already added to my playlist and I'll listen to it till the end of time alongside Baba Yetu and Sogno di Volare!

[@amiracle817]

Civ 8 can get a song representing posthumanism maybe, using literature regarding humans “ascending into another realm”? Idk really, sounds cool

[@tesla_autopilot]

@amiracle817looking forward to what he comes up with in 2032

[@leonelimalevu7302]

​@amiracle817well, there is the "Noosphere" the theme for the Adeptus Mechanicus of 40k

[@TricksterPoi]

More than just valor. It represents of leaving a mark. To be remembered. Damn. I remember in another game where 2 stories involving about *to be remembered* and this song hits what they wish for.

[@danmiy12]

So now we have religious, science, and now domination victory themes from Chris. All bangers. Again this is amazing like always.

[@DustyChapter]

I absolutely adore the use of multiple histocric languages in this peice. Extra love that even old english makes an appearance here. A perfect pairing with the games mechanics, you've outdone outself!

[@joendeo1890]

I think k you would also enjoy "I Was Born For This" from Austin Wintory it did the same thing many years ago and wouldn't surprise me as an inspriation

[@acerpoika1]

Sogno di volare was amazing, im so glad Cristopher Tin is back in the upcoming CIV. This is once again a masterpiece

[@hosurosh4846]

I don’t know why but in a lot of part of the world, it feels like we are going true some dark times, I don’t know why this song feels so fitting to gain valor in such an hours.

[@MrMuppetLover]

When Christopher Tin composes the Civilization theme, you know it's going to be epic.

[@Lunar-AnViFox]

I saw someone theorize somewhere that each of these themes since Civ 4 represent the main victory conditions of the game, With sogno di volare being scientiffic, terra nova the cultural, baba yetu the religious victory, so on. I like that idea, i like it because it would be epic if that was true, probably something that wasn't thought of until now but... still a really cool throught, and if true, we finally got our domination victory theme. Shoutout to whoever came up with this originally, cool idea

[@theluigiguy]

This song is so quintessentially "civilization" - it makes me feel like I'm experiencing the rise, fall, and rememberance of a culture through its tone and progression. Can't wait to listen to this so many more times

[@Andriz2006]

When they announced Civ7 my only thought was "Whatever, I don't care if Christopher doesn't the soundtrack". For me one of the Top10 composers of our time.

[@quintonnarcisse6425]

I’ve never been so early to a Christopher Tin upload, but I’m forever grateful that I was among the first to experience this masterpiece.

[@Threshermaw23]

So I listened to this in the car, maximum volume, 10 times in a row. Best car ride in my LIFE. Would 12/10 recommend.

[@Shulkerkiste]

Still listening to "The Dream of Flight". Now the next chapter begins.

[@loganswaisgood8524]

I have always been floored with Tin's work on the Civ series and Calling All Dawns, and this piece is going right up there among my favorites. The moment I saw the lyrics of the refrain came from the Illidad, I knew that this was going to be something special. Bravo!!

[@oribennett6520]

Have you heard "To Shiver the Sky" yet?

[@elfaroncarnot]

Using the core game mechanic as the inspiration is such a genius idea. The ending is so satisfying and stirs so much emotion within me. Can't wait for the full album!

[@Taycatte]

This feels like a much more "challenging" piece than Baba Yetu or Sogni di Volare. There is more tension musically, and the lyrics really focus on the struggle of humanity. It seems to answer the optimism of the previous two with the harsh reality of what needs to be sacrificed to reach those ultimate heights. There is much more tension here that indicates to me the way humanity tends to lurch back and forth on its path to the future. That it's not a linear path upwards. It acknowledges the struggle of it all, that you have to remain determined to do or create something magnificent, even through the hardest of times. I have been feeling very challenged by the events of the world recently, so I wonder how much of this is just me, and how much Christopher has put into it. But those are the feelings it stirs in me. It's really apparent in the finale, as even in its most triumphant, this piece still deals with rather dissonant tone clusters and intervals that clash with the message of humanity forging ahead in spite of everything. Very beautiful work, Christopher. Thank you.

[@U.T.E.O.T.]

Christopher Tin proved again that his talent is platinum!

[@castornuclear]

Our math professor is a huge fan of Civilization and its music. So naturally I put it in my playlist for math stuff. And when I step into the exam, where he will cause havoc, I will listen to this song. Glory to mankind.

[@robertbowers2499]

genius. making a piece about achieving immortality through remembrance, utilizing ancient pieces of literature that speak on this theme, while also fulfilling it, in a game entirely about the same theme. simply wonderful.

[@koriksflamekell]

As a university student who has followed the Civ series since childhood, this is incredibly inspiring. It makes me want to seize the world and truly achieve something awesome, for all of mankind, as the lyrics implore you to do. When I first heard Sogno di Volare, it was like a call to action; that only by turning my eyes to the sky could I achieve my dreams. The beginning of an awesome journey. Now, this is the mid- or late-battle song; I've come this far, and now it's time to finish the fight. Whether I live or die. Amazing work as always!

[@wesleycolemanmusic]

Thank you for inspiring us all once again!!

[@DocTomoe812]

stands up, first slowly, then increasingly more rapidly clapping. This is a Masterpiece, amongst many ... I sincerely hope that in 100, 200 or 300 years Tin will be remembered as we remember classical composers today. Also: Music with themes and meanings: Civ IV: Religion is a sign of civilization ... Calling all Dawns: Time is cyclical Civ VI: ... so is reaching for the skies ... To shiver the skies: More reaching for the heavens, overcome the shackles of our limitations. The lost birds: Humanity is monstrous, as evidenced in the example of avian extinction. Civ VII: ... and the drive to leave something behind to be remembered by.

[@SplendidFellow]

The Iliad!!! AWESOME!!! Or should I technically say... EPIC!!! You really have done it again, fantastic music!!! This will be heard for hundreds of hours by millions of people

[@이동수-c9f]

The masterpiece of human culture and civilization.

[@dereinzigartigeherryoda9742]

Words can not express the greatness of Christopher Tins Works. Every piece is a universe for it's own every melody an eternal fountain of life. It really makes you think about life itself and the great gift that it is to be alive. To listen to the words of dead languages that survived eternity just to speak to us through literature is such a beautiful image. May Christopher Tin never stop making music and may i never stop to think about them.

[@acroties9304]

Honestly nothing inspires me more to literally anything, than listening to your music, you have somehow managed to outperform yourself yet again!

[@Vorty82]

Discovered just a few hours ago and already an earworm playing in loop in my head! ❤ Thank you for this new masterpiece that will greet us to the new step of Civilization in years to come

[@fsouvignon]

Another masterpiece from Christopher Tin. I will listen to it thousands of times starting in February.

[@DBT1007]

GLORIUS SONG FOR GLORIOUS DOMINATION VICTORY ! AND GLORIOUS EVOLUTION !

[@TheMajestyOfRock2]

You did it again mr Tin. Can't listen to your scores without tearing up😊😢

[@the15thprofessor]

Another absolutely incredible piece from the greatest modern classical composer. I love how this blends themes of multiple civilizations together. It's truly beautiful.

[@JDC.stories]

Simply amazing, magestic, brillaint, epic. Another piece for your great collection, Maestro Tin.👏

[@dimzocas]

So... from what I get about this new CIV, we keep changing civilizations as the ages pass. So the language switch in the music reflects that? If so, that's genius!

[@mrwho995]

Lightning strikes three times. This might be your best work yet. Stunningly beautiful. Simultaneously very hopeful but also wistful; the perfect balance of hope and quiet reflection.

[@Mybodyisatemple]

Getting goosebumps all over! Being engaged in CIV since one year, this music from Christopher Tin is perfectly suited for the experience. Looking forward to CIV 7 ❤. Greetings from Netherlands

[@NishidateKitsune]

Another masterpiece from The Great Musician.

[@UtopiaMusic]

Awesome work, Christopher! It sounds so rich and deep and glorious. I look forward to hearing this as I boot up the game for the first time. And then drawing inspiration from it in my future musical compositions!

[@RT-le2vm]

한국 팬으로써 이번에도 좋은 곡을 작곡해주셔서 감사합니다. 영원불멸의 영광이 함께하길

[@sbraswellnc]

Truly wonderful. In my mind, it's second only to Baba Yetu within your oeuvre. Using these lyrics was a stroke of genius, and I melted at how masterfully you wove the A minor "2-3-2-1" theme from the horns into the closing fanfare-so stridently resonate, powerful, and beautiful! I cannot wait to dive into a solo piano transcription of this. Thank you.

[@Geostrategeek]

Sogno di Volare is better than Baba Yetu, is it not ?

[@martikr2]

You are both missing the true Christopher Tin Masterpiece of Waloyo Yamoni. (Listen to the live version from Cadogan Hall)

[@jdsd_]

@Geostrategeek Does it matter? They are all epic af :D

[@Geostrategeek]

@@jdsd_ True

[@Scondoro]

I knew of you since Civ4 but only learned of the rest of your work after Civ6, was so excited for you when they announced you as composer at TGA! What another amazing, moving piece!

[@seansamuels7131]

My God! That was moving! So Soul-stirring!! Thank you! Taking passages from some of Humankind's pinnacle works of literature as lyrics is a noble stroke of genius. Just gorgeous!!

[@donkfail1]

The amazing Tin never disappoints.

[@harleygordon4485]

Im so so glad they keep bringing you back!!

[@RayAstur23]

My stendhal syndrom hit hard in this one. Congratulations, mr. Tin, you will make me watch the main menu without playing for 4:51 😂

[@Maggot-Milk]

I was not hyped for civ 7, you have swayed me. Our strange little species has been divided since time immemorial, but we'll always be united by our undying struggle and ambition for something more. It makes me damn proud to be human 😭

[@gerardovenegas4610]

Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Handel, Vivaldi, Christopher Tin, We are so lucky to have you man! Thanks again!

[@Eugene3331]

I love the way you continue evolve your idea of connecting different cultures through music and how this connects with idea of Civilisation were all of those are in, on their way to prospere.

[@DC_Greed]

This is great, I love it. I really like how you took elements from the game like the clash of cultures in the early parts, and then a drop off, which seems like the change in ages and a new culture emerges. The humming lets us know that although there is no dominant culture like the English or Greeks, humans survive and create a new culture that emerges from the ashes of the last.

[@ThatZackAttackery]

Christopher Tin is such an amazing talent and seems like such a kind and humble person. This man deserves to be known across the world. My favorite conposer, of all time.

[@FABIOxROCK]

He never misses, he is the legend. We love you Tin

[@RobertRedBard]

Wow - There is something to this piece - One can sense the ancient tales of mankind in this one. This is bold - citing such mighty poetry. It's very inspiring!

[@JoshuaFagan]

This is wonderful! It reminds me a bit of "I was born for this" from Journey, with the use of lines from classical myths around the world.

[@CSXIV]

First, I love that this got recommended to me hours after dropping. Second, reiterating and adding to a comment I made on "Sogno di Volare:" Babu Yetu: Humanity as it is. Sogno di Volare: Humanity as it aspires to be. And now, Live Gloriously: Humanity as it struggles, but ultimately triumphs, against the odds. On that note, I'm gonna say it: Civ V's biggest flaw just might be "Lack of a Christopher Tin song."

[@mtoboekid11mouse88]

Just came from watching the video of the live orchestra perform this at the game awards, and immediately went looking to see if it was here too - congratulations on another Great Work Mr. Tin! I love the two main melodies and the finale it builds to is just wonderful!

[@CUfkes]

I love the fact that the text and their source is also in the video. A very smart move !

[@Blownapart23]

Thanks for another masterpiece Christopher! Sounds great!

[@anastasiolabropoulos]

A beautiful piece of music once more! I think the best part of this piece is how it thematically fits with how Civ VII is said to be designed. The same way the previous pieces fit with their own games. Lastly, it definitely shows that feeling of “You die when you are forgotten, not when your body expires” It’s also amazing how the epics sound far better in their original language than translated!

[@alexjevincent]

As excellent as this is, I look forward to what tapestry Christopher Tin spins from threads laid out here, as was so wonderfully done with Calling All Dawns and To Shiver The Sky. Thank you for continuing to be such an inspiration.

[@Imperor]

This is what I've been waiting for out of Civilization VII - the main themes are always certified bangers. Thank you Mr Tin!

[@Threshermaw23]

This is so majestic. Your choir pieces always convey so much, Thank you!!! ❤

[@marialuisafarol3609]

Another amazing masterpiece to enjoy for years to come!

[@leventt.7654]

Another masterpiece from Christopher! So smart and unique to include these different languages! So excited for the new game. And thank you Christopher for your magical song; once again.

[@wielkibiszkopt9007]

Great work as always. I have been waiting for this upload since the first trailer droped. Melody is just gold. Regards from Poland :)

[@enhydralutra]

You've been one of my favorite composers since I first heard Baba Yetu and your music and albums have only gotten better with time. This is absolutely beautiful! Can't wait to play the game, and if tradition holds, I can't wait for the album this will be featured on. Thank you for all the joy your music has brought my life, Mr. Tin!

[@Donderu]

I have never heard Mayan in choir form, what an incredible piece!

[@feanor5598]

I'm studying Ancient History and I learned Ancient Greek at university. The Iliad and the Odyssey are two of my favourite pieces of literature and as soon as the choir started singing in Ancient Greek I got goose bumps... kudos!

[@leonardsantoslaurio4877]

So happy that this year gave me an opportunity to learn about you and your compositions. Hope this turns into an album too. And perhaps try Tagalog lyrics in one of your future works. 😅 Thank you so much. ❤

[@the1joyster]

as always, amazing music and amazing themes. You are one of the few creators of our time that can truly show people that we are all brothers and sisters and we should celebrate the best of culture in humanity.

[@dragonx9268]

You know, just another masterpiece.

[@closedchill5243]

Death and glory and living past death through accomplishments have been common thoughts through time. This piece adds beautiful music to the thought. It's sad, in a way. People desperately want to live on, but the only way they see is this struggle for glory. Why do we have such a powerful desire to live forever? Is glory from feats all we have? It seems to me human Civilization is dealing with serious problems today, many of which could end all life on earth. World rulers - the glory seekers - have brought us to this point. When I listen to this piece, I hear glory, but also tones of tragedy and vanity laced throughout.

[@synchronicle]

Goosebumps as always! that ancient Greek verse.

[@nikpan9744]

I love it! It’s awesome how the lyrics transition through different languages, giving it a global feeling. Very fitting for a Civilization game. I hope it‘ll be available on apple music soon.

[@Anonymouse85]

He's only gone and done it again... Mr Tin you are amazing!

[@Kmg_24]

Another beautiful composition, Mr Tin. The music within the Civilization series is always first rate from everyone involved.

[@SirMoribund]

Beautiful. This is going on my permanent playlist immediately.

[@ReiverofBorders]

I said before and I will say it again: Christopher Tin is the greatest composer of the 21st century.

[@DavidSmith-mt7tb]

Been keeping up with the civ 7 preview info and realized no one had really mentioned the music. Googled it and saw you were still doing the theme but sadly couldn't find it. Fortunately the algorithm remembered that and brought me here. Nailed it once again.

[@t.wcharles2171]

Another fine piece, I especially like the different texts used for the lyrics, each relating to the theme of deeds and legacy.

[@myriamdufrier]

Great theme! ❤ I love every second of it.

[@jamesgreen5298]

I said I was excited when this was announced some days ago. And boy, am I not disappointed! This is stellar! Immediately ranks with the best of your work to date, Mr. Tin!

[@TricksterPoi]

By the Gods this is breathtaking. It surpass the last Civ's song too. The theme and concept of leaving a mark in history (to be remembered) has being a running theme since the day mankind learn that anyone will die one day... People leave memorials, write stories and sagas to spreading stories (which may or maybe exagerrated) but all of them share the same vibe... Which the lyrics in this song share. That reminds of the words in the film Gladitor: "What we do in life... Echos in eternity."

[@renearentz4869]

A glorious day knowing Christopher Tin will collaborate with Civilization game series once again ❤

[@Casy1306]

If there is one thing we can always be sure about, it's that a Christopher Tin opening for Civilization means Epicness. An absolute Masterpiece, sir!

[@Flashhack]

Great job! You already did many magnificent things in your life, Mr. Tin, and I'm sure there will be more!

[@karmichel]

You have to have a vast knowledge of all these works, get the lines that you want to convey, see the sonority of it, and then, create a melody... Christopher Tin, dude... You are awesome!

[@jernejzupan8079]

Christopher Tin really cooked this time🔥

[@MantisMaestro]

Simply amazing, I knew we were in for a treat when they announced you were working on Civ VII, but this has taken my breath away. It has been on repeat all afternoon.

[@CalisthenicsWave05]

Congratulations on the music! I love the idea of changing languages for each piece! Under the video for 'Sogno di Volare,' I read a comment interpreting it as a representation of scientific victory, while 'Baba Yetu' was seen as religious victory. The lyrics of 'Live Gloriously' seem perfectly suited for domination victory. Will the next composition for Civilization 8 focus on cultural victory ? Congratulations again on the amazing composition! As an Italian, I really love 'Sogno di Volare,' but this new music blows me away as well!

[@skeptale]

Can we just appreciate the fact that Christopher has been tasked with somehow creating a piece of music that captures the entire depth and breadth of the human endeavor, and somehow he's managed to accomplish that on three separate occasions?

[@umbrum2]

Strong "We will not go quietly into that good night" defiance vides. Perfect for our times

[@milztempelrowski9281]

He's back!

[@JWK1101]

As a pun enjoyer, I appreciate that you decided to use the Greek part as a chorus.

[@Mp3Charlie]

Stunning work as always!

[@sayoririeta3211]

Most part of the lyrics real represents me I don't want to die before I can make something that will make people know my name after my death... Another great piece as always Mr. Tin, congrats

[@BeyonderPrime]

The way you use existing texts and passages to tell stories with song is insane! Gives so much more depth to Civ 6s initial trailer with this song especially with the narration being translations!

[@Night4fingers]

Well, you've done it again, brought me to tears with sheer beauty.

[@ahciuL]

I absolutely love how you use different languages and dialects. I love it as a linguist but even more as a musician. Always a pleasant surprise ❤