Hocus Pocus by Focus... Chiptuned!


One of the most notoriously awesome rock instrumentals of the 1970's was a lengthy ditty by Dutch rockers, Focus. Powered by a full tilt Jan Akkerman guitar riff and featuring the maniacal yodeling of Thijs Van Leer, this is a song that you may well be familiar with or not at all. But one thing is certain. You've probably never heard it played as if it were the backing music for a level in a Mario Bros. game.

Now admittedly, chiptune covers aren't for everyone. They aren't even for most. But go with me on this one as it will definitely bring a smile to your face. Before we get the bleepy bloopy chippy goodness, let's make sure you are familiar with the original song. If you already are, feel free to skip down.


Recognize it now? If you follow fútbol, or more specifically, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, you undoubtedly heard "Hocus Pocus" in heavy rotation during it in a Nike commercial. Now that you are more familiar with this classic, take a listen to what happens when "Hocus Pocus" gets put through an 8-bit spin cycle.


Sublimely ridiculous, wouldn't you say? Bonus points for clever chiptuner Final Mega Gear for his selection of frame grabs for his video. And major props to fellow music blogger, friend and recording artist Mark, for putting this earworm in my head.



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