Sounds of Childhood Recognized: Windows 95 and Minecraft in Library of Congress
The iconic sounds from Windows 95 and Minecraft have been included in the US Library of Congress's collection of culturally significant recordings.
Recently, the US Library of Congress has decided to include the start-up sound of Windows 95 as well as the soundtrack from Minecraft in its registry of national significance. This acknowledgment serves as a celebration of how deeply embedded these sounds are in the memories of many.
Windows 95
The Windows 95 start-up sound, recognized for its nostalgic resonance, reflects an era of computing that many remember fondly. For others, the Minecraft soundtrack may represent the soundtrack of their formative gaming experiences. Alongside other culturally significant pieces like Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On,” these compositions highlight the intersection of technology and cultural memory.
The Library of Congress considers recordings for induction based on their cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance, with nominations coming from the public. Each year, a select number of recordings are chosen for preservation.
For an audio experience, check out this clip of the Windows 95 sound and the Minecraft soundtrack.
