The Undead Symphony: Unmasking the Composers of Call of Duty Zombies Music
The haunting melodies and pulse-pounding anthems of Call of Duty Zombies are as integral to the experience as the shambling hordes themselves. But who is responsible for crafting this unforgettable soundscape? The primary composer behind the iconic and often chilling music of Call of Duty Zombies is Kevin Sherwood, a sound designer and composer at Treyarch. However, while Sherwood is the main force, the musical world of Zombies is more collaborative than it initially appears. He isn’t a lone wolf, as the soundtrack frequently features vocal talents and collaborative elements. In fact, alongside Sherwood, the series has seen the contributions of talented singers like Elena Siegman, instrumentalists, and even major musical artists who’ve lent their creativity to certain games within the franchise. Let’s explore this diverse landscape of musical creation within the zombie-infested world of Call of Duty.
The Architect of Undead Anthems: Kevin Sherwood
Kevin Sherwood is the cornerstone of the musical identity of Call of Duty Zombies. As a sound designer and composer at Treyarch, he is the principal creator behind many of the memorable tracks that accompany the series. His work spans many games, starting from the early days and continuing through to later iterations of the franchise. He is not only responsible for composing, but also producing many of the tracks. A notable example of his work is the track “Damned,” which is credited to him as both producer and composer. He’s a true creative force, single-handedly crafting the sonic atmosphere that defines the terrifying and exhilarating experience of Zombies mode.
Sherwood’s compositions often include heavy use of guitars, synthesizers, and powerful percussive elements, perfectly complementing the intense gameplay. His music masterfully sets the tone, often oscillating between eerie suspense and adrenaline-fueled action. He’s responsible for more than just background scores; he’s the creative mind behind the iconic Perk-a-Cola jingles, such as the “Juggernog” theme, which are just as recognizable as the Zombies mode itself.
The Vocal Muse: Elena Siegman
While Sherwood provides the instrumental base, the haunting vocals often associated with Call of Duty Zombies are frequently delivered by Elena Siegman. A frequent collaborator with Sherwood, Siegman’s powerful voice brings another layer of emotion and character to the music. Her vocal performances are often featured in the in-game easter egg songs, which are frequently both cryptic and narrative-driven. Her vocal stylings are a staple of the sound of the zombies franchise. She is a key ingredient in the musical landscape, providing many of the unforgettable vocals featured throughout the games.
A Symphony of Collaboration
While Sherwood and Siegman are the mainstays, the musical canvas of Call of Duty Zombies also features contributions from other artists and composers. The franchise has had collaborations with big-name musical artists, which highlights the desire to add new perspectives and styles to the in-game music. These collaborations are usually for the main themes of some specific installments, as seen with Trent Reznor’s involvement with the main theme of Black Ops II. This demonstrates a willingness to explore different musical avenues to keep the sound of Zombies fresh and engaging.
Thematic Variation Across Games
It is vital to note that the music style changes across various Call of Duty titles. While there are consistent themes and motifs, the musical styles shift depending on the setting, narrative, and overall tone of each game’s Zombies experience. World War II had its own unique sound, as did Infinite Warfare and Advanced Warfare. This shows the developers understanding of how music affects game play and they made sure that each title has the musical landscape to best suit the setting. The diversity in composers and sounds further enriches the musical experience for the players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who wrote the “Damned” song from Call of Duty Zombies?
The song “Damned” was written and produced by Kevin Sherwood. It’s one of the most recognizable songs from the Zombies mode and is credited to him on the official soundtrack releases.
2. Who composed the main theme for Black Ops II Zombies?
The main theme for Black Ops II was composed by Trent Reznor, frontman of the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails. This marked a notable collaboration with a big-name artist for the series.
3. Who sings the Perk-a-Cola jingles in Call of Duty Zombies?
Elena Siegman is the vocalist behind the iconic Perk-a-Cola jingles, such as “Juggernog” and “Speed Cola.” Her voice is synonymous with the Zombies mode experience.
4. What other artists have contributed to Call of Duty Zombies music?
While Kevin Sherwood and Elena Siegman are the primary contributors, several other artists and instrumentalists have contributed. However, specific credits for many instrumental contributions are not widely available. Avenged Sevenfold, for example, created the instrumental track “Jade Helm” for Black Ops 3.
5. Did the “Zombie” song by The Cranberries have anything to do with COD Zombies?
No, the song “Zombie” by The Cranberries is not related to the Call of Duty Zombies mode. It was inspired by the 1993 Warrington bombing in England.
6. Who is the Demonic Announcer voice in Call of Duty Zombies?
The Demonic Announcer’s voice changes through the games, and it’s mostly associated with Samantha Maxis or Edward Richtofen, depending on the story’s progression. These characters’ voices often take on a distorted or sinister tone.
7. Why is the music so important in Call of Duty Zombies?
Music in Call of Duty Zombies is vital for creating the atmosphere, building tension, and enhancing the overall experience. It plays a key role in the emotional response of the player.
8. Does each Call of Duty Zombies map have unique music?
While some themes are reused, many Call of Duty Zombies maps feature unique musical pieces tailored to the specific setting and atmosphere, ensuring that the experience stays fresh and engaging.
9. Are the songs in Zombies easter eggs tied to the story?
Many easter egg songs have their lyrics and tone to be tied to the overarching story and lore of the Zombies mode, serving to either provide additional information, or create a more emotional experience.
10. Who is the main musical creator for most of the Black Ops series Zombies?
Kevin Sherwood is considered to be the main musical creator of the Black Ops Zombies series, with Elena Siegman handling a great deal of vocal duties.
11. Is there an official soundtrack for Call of Duty Zombies?
Yes, several official soundtracks have been released for Call of Duty titles that feature Zombies, including Call of Duty: Black Ops – Zombies (Original Game Soundtrack).
12. Do all Call of Duty Zombies games share the same music?
No, while some themes and motifs are reused or remixed, each Call of Duty Zombies title tends to have its own unique musical landscape. There can be consistencies in themes, but each title is distinct in its musical composition.
13. Why are the vocals in the Zombies songs often distorted and eerie?
Distorted and eerie vocals contribute to the overall atmosphere of the Zombies mode, enhancing the feeling of dread, mystery, and supernatural elements.
14. Are all Call of Duty Zombies musical pieces original creations?
The majority of musical pieces in Call of Duty Zombies are original creations specifically for the game mode, although there may be some inspirations from existing musical pieces.
15. How does the music in Call of Duty Zombies enhance gameplay?
The music in Call of Duty Zombies enhances the gameplay experience by creating tension, building suspense, and providing an adrenaline rush during intense moments. It also serves as a key component of story-telling and world-building.
The music of Call of Duty Zombies is a vital, multi-layered component that elevates the entire gaming experience. While Kevin Sherwood is the primary architect of this sonic world, the contributions of artists like Elena Siegman and others have created a truly unforgettable symphony of the undead. The diverse and often chilling music of the Zombies mode is undoubtedly a critical aspect of its lasting popularity and legacy within the gaming community.