OSTs

An Original Soundtrack (OST) is music created or compiled to accompany a film, television program, video game, or other media project. The term typically covers both the instrumental score composed for the work and any preexisting or newly commissioned songs featured in it. When released as an album, an OST serves as a standalone collection of the music associated with the title.

Distinctions exist between OST, soundtrack, and score. In common usage, OST describes the published collection of music from the work, whereas the score refers to the instrumental music composed to underscore scenes. Songs by artists, whether written for the project or licensed from elsewhere, are often included in an OST and may form a separate soundtrack album. Some projects produce separate releases for the score and for songs.

Production: The process typically begins with a spotting session to determine mood and placement of music. A composer or music supervisor leads creation; the score may be written in orchestral or electronic styles, then orchestrated, recorded with an orchestra or musicians, and mixed. Licensed songs require licensing negotiations and clearance of rights from copyright holders.

Release and reception: OST albums are released in physical formats and digitally, sometimes before the release of the media property to build interest. Critical response to an OST can influence a title’s reception and long term cultural impact, and soundtrack albums may achieve commercial success independent of the media.

In practice, the term OST is widely used across entertainment industries, including cinema, television, anime, and video games, reflecting the central role of music in storytelling and identity of the work.