As a piece of music, it’s fair to say that the theme from the Nintendo computer game Super Mario deserves its place as perhaps the most recognisable tunes in the world. Composed by Koji Kondo, it is infectiously catchy, to the point that if you were to ask anyone under the age of 40 to hum it, they’d probably be able to drop the calypso beat – and add in the subterranean alternate while they’re at it. But did you know that there are lyrics to the tune?
In 1985, vocals for the tune were created when a Japanese radio station asked fans to write in with lyrics to the tune. The winner’s words were such a huge hit that Nintendo got on board, and officially recorded and released a vinyl record of the song.
Now, 30 years on, the gaming giant has revealed the lyrics will be included on Joysound, a Japanese karaoke computer game.
The lyrics are in Japanese, but you can hear them in the video below, and read the translation at the bottom of the post:
Today, full of energy, Mario is still running, running
Go save Princess Peach! Go!
Today, full of energy, Mario runs
Today, full of energy, jumping!
Today, full of energy, searching for coins
Today, keep going, Mario!
Get a mushroom - it’s Super Mario!
Get a flower - it’s Fire Mario!
Goomba! Troopa! Buzzy Beetle! Beat them all!
Mario is always full of energy and strong!
Today, full of energy, Mario is still running, running
Go and beat the Koopa tribe, go!
Today, full of energy, Mario runs
Today, full of energy, jumping!
Today, full of energy, searching for coins
Today, keep going, Mario!
Get a star - become invincible!
Quickly, go save Princess Peach!
Lakitu! Blooper! Cheep Cheep! Beat them all!
Mario is always full of energy and strong!
Today, full of energy, Mario is still running, running
He’s made it to the castle and gets fireworks!
Lightly sidestepping the Hammer Bros.
Show the last of your power, Mario!
It’s been a long journey but it’s nearly at an end
You’ve done it, you’ve done it! You’ve defeated Bowser!
Princess Peach says “Thank you”
Mario’s got a great big heart!
Mario’s adventure is over for now, but
Mario’s dream lives forever...
