Twenty Thousand Hertz

Wylie Gustafson, a musician and renowned yodeler from Montana, shares the fascinating backstory of the iconic Yahoo! Yodel. He recounts its roots in the Swiss Alps and how it became a defining sound of the ‘90s internet era. The conversation explores the cultural resurgence of yodeling, its unexpected fame through branding, and a high-stakes legal battle over its ownership. Gustafson reflects on the joy yodeling brings and its emotional ties, highlighting its surprising impact on modern culture.

Kirk Hamilton, musician and host of the Strong Songs podcast, dives into the musical genius of Koji Kondo, the mastermind behind Super Mario Bros. He discusses how Kondo utilized limited audio channels to create unforgettable melodies, including the iconic jump sound and Overworld Theme. Kondo's love for jazz fusion and innovative rhythmic techniques shaped Mario's soundscape. Hamilton also explores the emotional impact of Kondo's compositions, highlighting their synergy with gameplay and the lasting legacy of this 8-bit masterpiece.

Discover the mesmerizing world of sound, from the evolution of pinball machines to the emotional depth of films enhanced by cutting-edge audio technology. Hear personal journeys where sound takes center stage, offering unique perspectives on life and creativity. Explore the challenges of airport noise and hear about historical melodies that evoke fear. Plus, dive into the fascinating relationship between music and gaming that has transformed the pinball experience. It’s a delightful auditory adventure!

Jake Hartsfield, Front of House Engineer and Tour Manager for Vulfpeck, shares his thrilling experience during the band's sold-out Madison Square Garden show. He elaborates on the intricate preparations and logistical challenges faced, including a chaotic ticket mix-up. Jake also reveals the intense pressure of mixing live sound for seventeen musicians, navigating real-time adjustments, and dealing with technical mishaps. His insights highlight the blend of artistry and technical skill required to turn a high-stakes concert into a seemingly effortless magical experience.

Lisa Broffman, Consulting Co-Executive Producer for Jeopardy!, takes us behind the scenes of the most recognizable TV theme music in America. Discover how a lullaby composed for Merv Griffin's son transformed into the iconic Jeopardy theme. She dives into the show's sonic evolution, exploring honking buzzers and orchestral remixes that have shaped its distinctive sound. Broffman also discusses the show's tumultuous early years and the music's emotional connection with viewers, illustrating its cultural impact over decades.

Martin Mikulik, writer and producer of 'The Siren's Call', delves into the captivating origins of the siren sound and its significant impact on everyday life. He explores the evolution of sirens from ancient lore to modern society. The podcast also reveals the science behind the haunting call of sirens and discusses their crucial role in safety and communication. Additionally, Mikulik touches on the emotional resonance of sound in storytelling, highlighting how auditory experiences shape our perceptions and memories.

Dallas Taylor, former frontman of Under Oath, shares his surreal adventure of connecting with five other people who share his name. The discussion dives into the significance of identity and how names shape our interactions with the world. Listeners are treated to humorous and profound anecdotes, exploring the unique experiences of these Dallas Taylors. They also touch on the influence of anime and music, uncovering deeper connections that transcend mere coincidence, creating a rich tapestry of shared stories and insights.

Dive into the quirky world of sound design with tales from Hollywood's sound pros. Discover the creative process behind capturing unique acoustics, like the legendary Spruce Goose reverb. Giggle at the creation of infamous fart sounds and an intern’s wild experiences. Explore profound stories that blend humor, business challenges, and even a touch of the supernatural. From historic hangars to everyday absurdities, this journey highlights the art and unexpected joys of crafting sound for film and TV.

What happens when one of history’s greatest composers begins to lose the very sense he relies on most? In this episode, we explore how Ludwig van Beethoven continued to create groundbreaking music even as his world fell into silence. Along the way, we uncover the myths, inventions, and raw determination that fueled Beethoven’s defiant creativity, and hear how his lifelong struggles are reflected in his music. Featuring musicologist Laura Tunbridge, author of Beethoven: A Life in Nine Pieces. Enter the “Sound Off” Story Contest at ⁠20k.org/soundoff⁠. Submissions close on May 7th, 2025. Explore the all new ⁠Defacto Sound website⁠, and click the ⁠Contact Form⁠ to get in touch. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at ⁠mystery.20k.org⁠. Follow Dallas on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠. Join our community on ⁠Reddit⁠ and follow us on ⁠Facebook⁠. Start your free online visit for hair loss treatment at hims.com/20k. Cut your current cloud bill in half with OCI at ⁠oracle.com/20k⁠. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: ⁠www.20k.org/episodes/the-deaf-composer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Harding and Nate Sloan, the creative minds behind Switched on Pop, share their journey of revamping their podcast's theme song after a decade. They dive into the emotional ties to their original tune and the hilarious chaos of crafting a new sonic identity. The duo discusses balancing nostalgia with innovation, exploring sonic branding complexities, and blending traditional melodies with modern elements. With insights on the art of jingle creation and listener engagement, this playful discussion highlights the significance of sound in shaping experiences.