The 'Dun Dun Dun' sound originated in stage melodramas in the late 19th century, and its tritone interval creates tension and unease in listeners.
The 'Dun Dun Dun' sound developed from a genuinely shocking and exciting sound effect in radio dramas to a comedic parody and cliché in movies like Young Frankenstein.
Deep dives
The Origin and Mystery of the Dun Dun Dun
The podcast explores the origins and significance of the iconic sound effect known as the 'Dun Dun Dun.' The host speaks to experts and delves into the history of this sound, used to punctuate dramatic moments in cartoons, movies, and musicals. While the exact origin of the sound remains elusive, it is speculated to have originated in stage melodramas in the late 19th century. The sound, characterized by the tritone interval, is known to create tension and unease in the listener. Over time, the sound has become a parody and a cliché, being used in various comedic and suspenseful contexts.
The Evolution of the Dun Dun Dun
The podcast discusses how the Dun Dun Dun sound developed over the years in different mediums, including radio, film, and television. It highlights its use in radio dramas of the 1930s and 1940s, where it was employed to genuinely shock and excite listeners. In Disney's Fantasia, a variation of the sound was used to emphasize dramatic moments. The sound gradually became a parody and a comedic gimmick, culminating in its iconic use in the movie Young Frankenstein in 1974. The podcast also features an interview with composer Dick Walter, who composed the classic recording of the Dun Dun Dun sound in 1984.
The Psychological Impact of the Dun Dun Dun
The podcast explores the psychological effect of the Dun Dun Dun sound on listeners. It explains that the sound's effectiveness lies in its use of the tritone interval, also known as the 'devil's interval.' The dissonant nature of the tritone creates tension and unease, making it an ideal choice for dramatic moments. The podcast also discusses how the sound has become a shorthand for signaling suspense and comedy. While it is unlikely to evoke genuine fear or shock in modern audiences, it still carries a recognizable and nostalgic quality that resonates with viewers.
There’s a certain musical phrase that you’ve probably heard hundreds of times. It’s used to emphasize dramatic moments in movies, cartoons, commercials and musicals, most often as a gag. But while this little melody is everywhere today, the question is: Where did it come from? In this episode, we investigate the mysterious origins of a famous 3-note sting. Featuring Sound Historian Patrick Feaster and Composer Dick Walter.