Soundtrack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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soundtrack

[หˆsaสŠndtrรฆk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

music collection

A soundtrack is a collection of music or audio belonging to a particular film, television show, video game, or other media. It typically includes all the songs and background scores that appear in the media, often compiled into an album. Soundtracks can be instrumental or may feature vocal tracks. They play a significant role in setting the tone and enhancing the emotional impact of scenes. Soundtracks can also be released separately from the media, allowing fans to enjoy the music on its own.

Synonyms

album, music, score, theme.

Examples of usage

  • I bought the soundtrack for my favorite film.
  • The video game's soundtrack is composed by a famous musician.
  • She listened to the soundtrack while studying.
  • The movie's soundtrack won an award for best original score.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'soundtrack' became popular in the 1960s, originally referring to the audio portion of films.
  • Early films used orchestral scores but evolved to include songs, greatly enhancing their emotional impact.
  • In the 1970s, the soundtrack of 'Saturday Night Fever' brought disco music into the spotlight and changed how soundtracks were marketed.

Pop Culture

  • Some soundtracks have become iconic, like 'The Lion King' and 'Titanic', leading to increased sales and fandom.
  • Awards like the Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack celebrate exceptional collections of music in movies.
  • The rise of streaming services has allowed audiences to access original soundtracks directly from their favorite films.

Science

  • Research shows that music in movies can affect viewers' emotional responses, making sad scenes feel sadder or happy moments even more joyous.
  • The tempo of a soundtrack can influence the pace at which viewers perceive a scene, affecting their overall experience.
  • Certain melodies can evoke nostalgia, connecting audiences to memories associated with particular films or moments in their lives.

Literature

  • Many authors use soundtracks as inspiration while writing, creating playlists that reflect the mood of their stories.
  • Books about music and its role in film often delve into how soundtracks shape narratives and character development.
  • Soundtracks can sometimes be analyzed alongside literary works, exploring themes presented through both music and text.

Origin of 'soundtrack'

The term 'soundtrack' originated in the early 20th century with a primary focus on the audio aspect of films. It was first used in the 1929 film 'The Jazz Singer,' which is widely recognized as the first significant 'talkie' or motion picture with synchronized sound. The concept of a soundtrack evolved as films began incorporating more music to enhance storytelling. By the 1950s and 1960s, soundtracks became a commercial product, often sold separately, allowing fans to engage with the music outside of the film. The popularity of vinyl records and later CDs facilitated the rise of soundtracks as a distinct music genre, with artists and composers working to create memorable music that resonates with audiences. Today, soundtracks have become an influential cultural artifact, often tying into the success of a film or series and sometimes gaining a life of their own in the music industry.