There’s a certain musical phrase that you’ve probably heard hundreds of times. It’s used to emphasize dramatic moments in movies, cartoons, commercials and musicals, most often as a gag. But while this little melody is everywhere today, the question is: Where did it come from? In this episode, we investigate the mysterious origins of a famous 3-note sting. Featuring Sound Historian Patrick Feaster and Composer Dick Walter. Follow the show on Twitter, Facebook, & Reddit. Subscribe to our Youtube channel here. Sign up for Twenty Thousand Hertz+ to support the show & get our entire catalog ad-free. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Read the original article that inspired this episode, by producer & journalist Amelia Tait. Download Overcast in the App Store for a powerful, simple podcast player. Try out Harry’s with a $3 starter set at harrys.com/20k. Visit athleticgreens.com/20k to get a one-year supply of vitamin D and 5 travel packs free with your first purchase. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp online therapy at betterhelp.com/20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/shockhorrora Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices