8-Bit Big Band Wins Grammy for Super Mario Praise Break

The 8-Bit Big Band, a jazz orchestra known for reinterpreting classic video game music, won the Grammy Award for Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella for their track "Super Mario Praise Break" at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. This medley features iconic themes from the Super Mario franchise, including the Super Mario Bros. theme, "Bob-Omb Battlefield" from Super Mario 64, "Gusty Garden Galaxy" from Super Mario Galaxy, and the "Athletic Theme" from Super Mario World. This marks the group's second Grammy win, having previously won in 2022 for their arrangement of "Meta Knight’s Revenge" from Kirby Super Star.

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Formed in 2017, the 8-Bit Big Band consists of over 30 members and is primarily based in New York City. The ensemble specializes in transforming video game soundtracks into sophisticated jazz compositions. Their work has garnered a dedicated following, and they have released five albums, with their latest being "Orchestrator Emulator." The band celebrated their recent Grammy win on social media, expressing gratitude to their collaborators and supporters.

“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley

The Grammy win for "Super Mario Praise Break" is significant as it highlights the growing recognition of video game music within the broader music industry. Despite the success of video game soundtracks, official nominations for Nintendo have been notably absent, even as cover versions like those from the 8-Bit Big Band have achieved acclaim. This year, Austin Wintory also won the Grammy for Best Score Soundtrack for his work on "Sword of the Sea," further emphasizing the impact of video game music in contemporary culture.

This Super Mario medley just won a Grammy AwardThis Incredible Super Mario Remix Just Beat Wicked Star Cynthia Erivo to a Grammy, and Nintendo Wasn't Even Involved“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley

In their announcement of the Grammy win, the 8-Bit Big Band stated, "WE JUST WON OUR 2nd GRAMMY! Thank you to everyone who listened and supported to all of our new releases and huge congrats to my co-arrangers on the now Grammy-winning Super Mario Praise Break." This sentiment reflects the band's excitement and appreciation for their achievement.

“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley

While the 8-Bit Big Band's win is celebrated, some critics point out that the absence of official recognition for Nintendo raises questions about the industry's acknowledgment of original video game compositions. Despite the popularity and cultural significance of these soundtracks, the lack of nominations for the creators of the original music remains a topic of discussion.

“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley

• “Holy shit we just won another Grammy. So incredibly honored to have won this award along with my overwhelmingly talented friends and collaborators.” — The 8-Bit Big Band

“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley

• “The princess might be in another castle, but the lord is in the house today! If HE has brought you to another level, go ahead and bless him!! No blue shell thrown against me shall prosper!!” — YouTube description for "Super Mario Praise Break."

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Following their Grammy win, the 8-Bit Big Band may continue to expand their repertoire and reach within the music industry. The recognition could lead to further opportunities for orchestral performances and collaborations, particularly as interest in video game music continues to grow.

“Another huge win for the video game music scene as a whole”: 8-Bit Big Band pick up their second Grammy for their Super Mario medley