History AwesomeMusic / MarioKart

* [[https://youtu.be/3kmS1w_QaZo Sherbet Land]], like its ''Mario Kart 64'' namesake, is ideal music for an ice course. It's catchy, wintery, and fun.

** The course based on ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossing'' gives us [[https://youtu.be/k_YyZSsRb-s this]]. And even better, there's '''four''' versions used in the track, depending on the season that is played. All four versions start with the beginning of the main theme from ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingNewLeaf'', which is followed by a musical nod to another iconic song from the ''Animal Crossing'' series. For [[https://youtu.be/ohL81Vt0yQI Spring]], it's the original Gamecube ''VideoGame/{{Animal Crossing|2001}}'' theme played by a relaxing horn and flute; for [[https://youtu.be/mdgnddbdd6U Summer]], it's the second half of the New Leaf theme and one of the various themes used in ''New Leaf''[='=]s Main Street, all played by a happy violin and acoustic guitar; for [[https://youtu.be/q-Zce6i6zKU Fall]], it's the main ''Animal Crossing'' theme used in ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingWildWorld'' and ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingCityFolk'' played by a calming acoustic guitar and harmonica; and for [[https://youtu.be/0kZKVvliE-0 Winter]], it's the Toy Day theme and 7PM theme from ''New Leaf'' played by a sensual saxophone and beautiful harmonica. To top it all off, the race results music is none other than [[https://youtu.be/j0zX-qYF4U0 the Roost's theme]]!

* ''Mario Kart 8''[='=]s UpdatedRerelease for the UsefulNotes/NintendoSwitch not only includes all of the awesome music from the original release, it packs some amazing new beats as well, especially with its battle arena themes.

%% When adding music, please list them in order of the cups they appeared in.

* The lively [[https://youtu.be/0cWb4DN44WU Mario Circuit]] track is an excellent opener for the game, and indeed the entire ''Mario Kart'' series. It even got [[https://youtu.be/h9gvuWPPZPM remixed]] for ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' ''[[VideoGame/SuperSmashBrosBrawl Brawl]]''.
* The track used for [[https://youtu.be/7NMQUBOXu1g Bowser's Castle]] is actually a remix of Bowser's intro and boss theme from ''VideoGame/SuperMarioWorld''. It makes the track sound completely threatening as you race through the course.
* The theme for [[https://youtu.be/EkGHNfb39hM Ghost Valley]] is not only NightmareFuel, it managed to kick off the trend of dark, horrifying levels. It's also a remix for the Ghost Houses in ''Super Mario World''.
* [[https://youtu.be/btG1GTXgYvo Vanilla Lake's]] theme embodies the jolly feel of a snow level. To other people, this theme takes on [[ThatOneLevel a completely different]] meaning.
* [[https://youtu.be/K03ATBNi3Vw Rainbow Road]] is the only course in the game to get completely unique music, and it really helps to set the stage for the game's grand finale: [[AstralFinale a multicoloured track IN SPACE!]] And despite sounding blocky nowadays, it manages to remain VindicatedByHistory despite being a 16-bit track.
* The classic [[https://youtu.be/XuefzdAPtQY Battle theme]]. This piece is hectic and also funky, giving off a mid 80s-early 90s vibe. It returns with an awesome remix in both ''Wii'' and ''8 Deluxe''.

* [[https://youtu.be/QSc3dO3ew_E Trophy Presentations]], used [[AWinnerIsYou when you finish Mario GP with 3rd place or better]]. Its tune was originally in the previous game, and was brought back in ''Super Circuit''. The track would later get remixed and/or modified in later games (e.g. a calypso remix for ''Double Dash!!'', a modified version in ''DS'', a majestic remix in ''Wii'', an up-beat modified version in ''7'', and a glorious, epic and flourishing remix in ''8'').

* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vm4pEjfnN8g main circuit theme]] follows in the footsteps of the "Mario Circuit" theme from ''Super Mario Kart'' by firing up the player for the hours of racing fun (and/or frustration!) with an upbeat, energetic tune. It also plays on Wario Stadium, for some reason. Like Mario Circuit, this track has also been remixed in ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' ''[[VideoGame/SuperSmashBrosBrawl Brawl]]'' as [[https://youtu.be/EncChhtdgUY Luigi Circuit]].
* Another incredibly catchy tune is [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfC6e3sVBng Moo Moo Farm/Yoshi Valley]]. It fits the atmosphere of the former and the shear ''confusing'' nature of the latter.
* [[https://youtu.be/WGFAPl2uu28 Koopa Troopa Beach]] has a really upbeat, tropical flavor and super catchy steel drum melody! This kicks off the franchise's known good reputation for [[OnceAnEpisode making great beach stages and great music to accompany them]].
* The [[https://youtu.be/KHKzR32XTx0 Kalimari Desert]] theme is a pleasant arrangement of the ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Grass Land map theme, dotted sporadically throughout with the EpicRiff on flute from ''Film/TheGoodTheBadAndTheUgly'''s main theme.

* The smooth, laid-back [[https://youtu.be/fW-hUbIQbo0 Frappe Snowland/Sherbet Land]] theme goes very well with the ice tracks. It even returns for ''DS'' and ''Wii'', mostly unremixed.
* The ''very'' infectiously catchy [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WssrSM3ybPQ Choco Mountain]] music is one of the best themes of the whole series, PERIOD.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqW7Lj9g8rM Bowser's Castle]], especially when you get to the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaVm-6HXtAg final lap]]. Both renditions return in ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm8n-fNA6Wg Banshee Boardwalk]] has a fittingly dark and spooky ambient piece, which almost borders on NightmareFuel.
* And now, the track that started it all... [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HjX1B48rVI Rainbow Road]] has a gloriously otherwordly feel to it, and not only conveys a real sense of finality and achievement to the player, it also sounds beautiful. No wonder why this is both one of the most liked themes [[BestLevelEver and tracks]] in the entire franchise.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAlLbrRoPbA credits theme]] is nothing short of tear-jerkingly beautiful. It even contains shades of the game's Rainbow Road theme.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty7PAnFrvKE The title screen song]] may sound cheesy, but is still [[NarmCharm incredibly catchy]]. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIhfrrSn2g8 The night version]] is ever better.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqrFVoyq5yE Bowser Castle]] has suitably dramatic music that wouldn't be out of place as the stage music for Bowser's Castle in the main series.
* What's a ''Mario Kart'' game without a track that comes packed with NightmareFuel? Picking up from Ghost Valley, the track used for [[https://youtu.be/agtbhkWq9JE Boo Lake and Broken Pier]] has that and more... [[ThatOneLevel way more...]]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AznwdiAjLD4 Cheese Land]] may be an odd concept for a stage, but the sheer energy of the music is infectious.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g68cHMi16vw Sky Garden]] has an appropriately easy-going soundtrack for a garden level. It's so good that it got not one, but ''two'' very different remixes in the first half of 2022. Do you want the [[https://youtu.be/p5shCYfLLAg delightfully danceable]] ''Tour'' version, or the fun, jazzy version from ''8 Deluxe''?
* There's a real sense of adventure to the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYdUkiHjP_0 Sunset Wilds]] stage music. It has the feel of a great Western movie theme!
* The music track for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56j26cQpi2k Ribbon Road]] is just plain fun.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BnnHMM_WOY Yoshi Desert]] is also plain fun, courtesy of its Arabian basis.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HmH5FK-R8Y Rainbow Road]] music begins the trend of including a MusicalNod to previous games (in this case, ''Super Mario Kart'') before moving to something entirely new. It's arguably one of the most exciting Rainbow Road tracks.

* Once you listen to [[https://youtu.be/AC9aGiH8mlA the title screen's music]], you know you're in for one of the wackiest and most insane ''Mario Kart'' games in the franchise!
* Appropriately for one of the more chaotic games in the series, the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POnJ0hnFr20 main circuit theme]] (heard in Mario, Luigi, and Yoshi Circuits) is one of the series' most energetic music tracks. It even returns in ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed!
* [[https://youtu.be/ciy_FfT5BxU Peach Beach/Daisy Cruiser]] [[JustForPun drives]] home the concept of beach levels. It's that relaxing. And like the main circuit theme, it returns in ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.

* The music for the [[https://youtu.be/IiNtU5E4Es4 Tilt-a-Kart]] battle stage may be the same as Baby Park, but includes a MusicalNod to the first few notes of the famous Mario theme.
* Dry Dry Desert, with [[https://youtu.be/WRh8xUeBoHo its suitably Egyptian-sounding theme]], ended the game's Mushroom Cup with a bang.
* The theme for [[https://youtu.be/l4Zu4ev589A Mushroom City and Mushroom Bridge]], a really good and jazzy piece that fits the tone of a big-city like course.
* [[https://youtu.be/anNkuBr0LOQ Waluigi Stadium/Wario Colosseum]] is a suitably brassy, upbeat theme for tracks bearing the names of the Mario Brothers' "evil opposites". Like the main circuit theme, this one even returns for ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPsHFXE8k0I Sherbet Land]], like its ''Mario Kart 64'' namesake, is ideal music for an ice course. It is catchy, wintry, and fun.
* [[https://youtu.be/Bb8upG1cBzM DK Mountain/Dino Dino Jungle]] is fast-paced and fits both levels' jungle atmosphere excellently. This is also the last of the four themes to return for ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.
* The theme for both [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deev_r74UU4 Bowser's Castle and Luigi's Mansion]] fits their atmosphere for the tracks, with dark, creepy choirs and scary organs playing throughout. All in all, it's awesome.
* ''Double Dash!!'' has one of the ''Mario Kart'' series' most popular [[https://youtu.be/54-1Y-KIhjY Rainbow Road]] music tracks, which includes a MusicalNod to the ''Super Mario Kart'' version in the introduction and to the ''Mario Kart 64'' version in the second half. This version was awesome enough to get into ''Brawl'' without being remixed at all. Someone thought up some lyrics for it and created [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuX5_OWObA0 this]] [[MemeticMutation hilarious gem]].
* Beating ''Mario Kart: Double Dash!!'' rewards the player with an amazing [[https://youtu.be/K-ytP4kuq_I jazz piano rendition of the main theme]].

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzmpNDaecgk The title screen]] manages to entice from the very beginning you turn on the game. It even manages to have a small excerpt of ''Double Dash!!'''s theme.
* The game's [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5_JImDm3pw Battle theme]] is a jolly beat to pump players to go at one another.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wqIKHZEVbs The theme for Figure-8 Circuit/Mario Circuit]] opens up with an exciting riff, and continues on with a theme fitting for the thematic.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpN2wBhopKM Luigi's Mansion]] has an appropriately spooky theme for a track through the haunted house.
* The laid-back [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmgPMYg_QvY Delfino Square]] music was so awesome, it got into ''Mario Kart Wii'' without a remix.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crc1Wn59nog Waluigi Pinball/Wario Stadium]] dials up the excitement and energy for a wild journey up and down a pinball table. The music is surprisingly catchy and well made, and it's very chaotic and unpredictable, like Waluigi himself. The icing on the cake: the sound effects on the Waluigi Pinball track (item box roulette, Lakitu displaying the lap number cards, passing another driver or taking the lead, etc.) are rendered in mock 8-bit sound. The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sipjRIY8u24 Brawl remix]] is completely awesome. It even takes sounds from the original version.
* The electronic soundtrack of [[https://youtu.be/FQgqjTIcQWw Shroom Ridge]] is both fun and surprisingly uplifting.
* The fiddle-led music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFgIXzal1mQ DK Pass]] is surprisingly easy-going for the chaos that so often occurs on snow courses.
* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlYXzK0Xu6A Tick Tock Clock]] opens by imitating a ticking clock; however, the two ticking hands play at slightly different speeds, and get further and further out of sync with each other to segue into an almost urgent music track befitting the often hectic races through the giant clock.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pQ6ByMCSsQ Airship Fortress]] follows the ''Mario'' games' long tradition of awesome music for airship levels.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYMeO_wF_LQ Bowser's Castle]] has an appropriately sinister atmosphere for the obligatory journey through the twists and traps of the title castle, containing creepy guitars, wailing choirs and dark bass riffs. Also, the main riff of the theme is almost identical to the main riff of Airship Fortress.
* The game keeps the trend of awesome [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjzlDwEw4uI Rainbow Road]] music going with yet another piece of music that conveys a real sense of achievement at having made it to this, the last track in the game. (It's also longer than it might first seem; the main tune actually plays twice before wrapping around, but with subtle differences the second time.) It gets a nod in the theme to ''8''[='=]s Rainbow Road.
* Time to go back in time! ''Mario Kart DS'' has the distinction of being the first game in the franchise to bring Retro tracks, allowing us to hear remixes of our favorite courses from previous games again.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2V5AjqSgjxA SNES Mario Circuit 1]] is back with a vengeance and, while not sounding as blocky as the original, is good to hear again.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ogy5IMEckGQ GBA Peach Circuit/GBA Luigi Circuit]]. Dat bass line.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Y0XtaX5tVg GCN Luigi Circuit/GCN Yoshi Circuit]] brings back the lively and just plain fun "main race theme" from ''Double Dash!!'', despite being compressed via the DS soundfont.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1b_Fji4JxA N64 Choco Mountain]] manages to sound just as good as in the original despite the lack of harmonica. Especially the part with the steel drum.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLSdNCFsRXI GCN Mushroom Bridge]] also manages to sound well, considering the slightly worse soundband for the DS compared to the Gamecube.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_J5KeueeFI N64 Banshee Boardwalk]] manages to maintain the original's {{nightmare fuel}}ing vibe, and arguably outdoes the original thanks to the improved music effects.
** The game's remix of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4KH-13UE-w GBA Sky Garden]] gives new life to the ethereal ''Super Circuit'' track.
* True to form, the end credits are set to first rate music; beating 50cc, 100cc, 150cc, and mission mode leads to a [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6SmC9fHj8k rather nostalgic, laid-back credits theme]], and while beating Mirror mode seems to lead to the same music, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ot1Nv_xr2T0 it suddenly takes off after about a minute]] for a suitably triumphant finale.

* The theme for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yU_KH4jPRQs Mario's Levels]] exemplifies the feeling of being in the middle of a frantic and chaotic race.
* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dBrqfNt_jg Rainbow Coaster and Rainbow Downhill,]] the Arcade version of Rainbow Road, is quite catchy.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPa9yWdykLE The main menu music]] is widely regarded as one of the series' best, with fast-paced drums, a groovy bass beat, and simple piano melodies at the beginning. As you progress through the options, more and more melodies fade in, resulting in an exciting tune that makes you eager to start racing.
* The first course, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6nylHp39JE Luigi Circuit]], is the first of several tracks to use the game's very catchy "main circuit" theme.
* The fiddle-led [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMVcWVjpOug Moo Moo Meadows]] is the perfect music for the game's farm stage.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1jWGQmK8xo Mushroom Gorge]] sounds very Celtic-like, frantic and dynamic for a ''Mario Kart'' track that's also frantic and dynamic.
* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9i3tVM0iRg Toad's Factory]] is written in an extremely infectious, brass-heavy jazz style. There's an inside version with rhythmic clapping slapped onto it, that's even more catchy.
* The generally chaotic drives through [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEQW--3yx9I Coconut Mall]] are set to an appropriately boisterous and upbeat music track. It even goes well in time while racing! The catchy tune in the beginning symbolises the moment when entering the mall, while the jazzy riff at the middle symbolises going through the mall and its shops itself, and the ending with the accordions symbolise the moment you need to stop shopping and go home. No, really.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_2ALXytTC8 DK Summit/DK's Snowboard Cross]] has a truly majestic track, with electronic instruments and a fast-paced attitude that goes well with the tone of the course.
* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_YkWDF3LFw Daisy Circuit]] is an incredibly catchy and fun remix of the main circuit theme, ideally suited for a [[UsefulNotes/FormulaOne Monte Carlo]]-esque street circuit.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyumq00ZNRw Koopa Cape]] has a very energetic and catchy stage theme, with three different versions: one with wacky beats (played during the start of the track), another with funky beats (played during the middle of the track) and one last version with a calm, serene beat to it (which goes well in the underwater section).
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLn9__8SSTk Maple Treeway]] has a suitably laid-back feel for a race through the treetops. Especially when the second half kicks in.
* As frustrating as weaving through traffic on [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Byr8OfJuw-Y Moonview]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FV4tAekNq4A Highway]] often proves, it has some of the best music in the game, complete with a VariableMix for when you're driving through the city. For added awesome, try listening to [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viiUSMyIlrg both versions combined.]]
* There's yet another deliciously sinister-sounding track for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azV4SBig8uI Bowser's Castle]], complete with MusicalNod to the castle theme from ''VideoGame/SuperMarioBros'' at the very beginning. It has the brutality and maliciousness of the other Bowser themes, but it seems to also display feelings of sadness and anger, representing a not usually seen side of Bowser: the lonely side.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrx0XWPOplM Rainbow Road]] music delivers both the sheer awesome and the sense of finality again, this time complete with a MusicalNod to both the ''Mario Kart DS'' Rainbow Road music and the Good Egg Galaxy stage music from ''VideoGame/SuperMarioGalaxy''. Probably the most magical-sounding Rainbow Road across all games.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-_B6M2vVic Dry Dry Ruins]] sounds like it would fit right in in a ''VideoGame/PaperMario'' battle, and transitions into a sparser, more mysterious mix when you enter the ruins proper.
* As for the remixed Retro tracks...
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-irH4Q49Nv8 SNES Ghost Valley 2]] manages to sound as horrifying as the original, if not more so.
** ''64'''s main circuit theme returns for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bH2VSi0OcZY N64 Mario Raceway]] remixed. It still manages to hold its own as an exciting theme.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxnbbhttEHA GBA Shy Guy Beach]] manages to sound nostalgic as it has a couple of the original's retro tunes, and even more relaxing than the original thanks to the better instrumentation.
** If you thought the ''DS''' version of Bowser's Castle for ''Super Circuit'' sounded underwhelming (likely due to the piano), [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYBDjJdgOzo Wii's rendition of it for GBA Bowser's Castle 3]] manages to sound more adrenaline-pumping, making it closer to the original. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAUCPEGdYrI The final lap]] amplifies it even further.
** As in ''DS'', the "Mario Circuit" theme from ''Super Mario Kart'' makes a welcome return for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7IvCL9nK04 SNES Mario Circuit 3]]. Unlike the ''DS'' version, this remix keeps more of the original's blocky feel, making for a more nostalgic-sounding track.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJay5CakwwE DS Twilight House]], a remix of the DS Battle Mode theme.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqrY55jWMZM SNES Battle Course 4]] gets an excellent remix for ''Mario Kart Wii''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNu114wdRDM Thwomp Desert]] has just the right balance of mystery and energy for a desert-based battle track.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rem8HL7XsU4 Galaxy Colosseum]] tilts the scale more toward the mystery side, as befits a space-based battle course.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NUTvbYYQMU credits theme]] caps off the game brilliantly by starting off soothing and relaxing to wind down from the race, and then suddenly going fast to celebrate your victory.

* [[https://youtu.be/lInoXk8u0-A Wuhu Loop]] it's a remix of the title theme for ''VideoGame/WiiSportsResort'', modified to sound truly in place for a ''Mario Kart'' game.
* [[https://youtu.be/Djn0BSChhFY Music Park/Melody Motorway.]] This piece may have a small and upbeat tune, but combine that with the fact that you can add instruments simply by drifting through pianos and xylophones, bouncing on tambourines, as well as certain obstacles adding rhythm to it makes it even better.
* [[https://youtu.be/cvUMnUsd8Qo Rock Rock Mountain/Alpine Pass]]. The piece sounds like an 80's pop-rock song, but it's fitting to the course, since it's filled with adrenaline and awesomeness. Especially with that electric guitar.
* [[https://youtu.be/K7cwj_ewAg4 Piranha Plant Pipeway/Piranha Slide]]. It includes [[MusicalNod a lot of musical nods]] to the overworld and underground themes of the original ''Super Mario Bros.'' game, and has a funky riff added onto it.

* [[https://youtu.be/I3NzL4IwLew Neo Bowser City/Koopa City]] is entirely composed of excerpts from previous tracks, but remixed to sound more electric, making for an amazing homage to previous ''Mario Kart'' themes. It contains remixed parts from the main circuit theme for this game, the title screen, Toad's Turnpike, and lastly the main circuit theme from ''Mario Kart Wii''. The [[https://youtu.be/8HhUHqtCdmY final lap]] is so pulse-pounding that it's practically ear candy.
* [[https://youtu.be/iM69n8JWaHA DK Jungle]]. It's a faster, more frantic remix of the good old ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountry'' theme, and the [[https://youtu.be/-VIXvNCDLho final lap version]] kicks off faster than its regular version.

* The [[https://youtu.be/6086Ae4LmYM Bowser's Castle]] theme has musical nods to the ''Double Dash!!'' version of Bowser's Castle, while having an original metal guitar riff in the beginning.
* This game contains what most ''Mario Kart'' fans consider the absolute best theme for [[https://youtu.be/NuR39Y0qKoI Rainbow Road]], not only with several {{Musical Nod}}s to ''64'''s iteration and its Staff Roll, but also managing to sound more spacey compared to the others. There's also [[https://youtu.be/FhsYBlWbkOA a version that plays when you reach the moon-like section]] and the [[https://youtu.be/r7SrMgGAT-o final lap]] version that perfectly times itself to have 0:21 play as the player ascends a hill, positioning them into driving straight towards the sun. In one word, the entire track can be described as "emotional".
* ''7'' has [[https://youtu.be/AfySEqFcxDA the best cover]] for GBA Bowser Castle tracks so far, and while sounding similar to the ''Wii'' version, it also sounds cleaner.
* ''7'''s take on [[https://youtu.be/SFzS3eTkoew SNES Rainbow Road]] shows how well the original song holds up when all this remix needs to do is uncompress the drums and the song sounds modern again.

* [[https://youtu.be/WdlIQYAZuL8 The theme that is used when you're spectating an online race]], waiting to join the next one. [[LongSongShortScene You may not even get to hear the entire music before the race ends]], but it's surprisingly awesome.

* The whole game could probably go in here. For starters, nearly ''every'' track in the game has a live recorded theme.[[note]]The exceptions are [=3DS=] DK Jungle, Wii Grumble Volcano, and [=3DS=] Neo Bowser City, all of which were simply upgraded to high-quality audio for ''8''.[[/note]] Hell, even the ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbuJZP0_8iQ?t=1545 title screen]]'' has some of the most awesome and fitting music in the series, and that's not even the beginning. There's a [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbuJZP0_8iQ?t=1520 section]] of a Nintendo Direct where you actually can see parts of the aforementioned title screen, Dolphin Shoals, and Moo Moo Meadows being performed live. It is ''awesome''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8RyU20lqvY Mario Kart Stadium]] as the first track in the game really shows that you're in for a treat. It contains music that is majestic and sports-like, and the melody is shared with ''8's'' Mario Circuit.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-T_ICZ0PN0Y Water Park]] introduces the underwater mechanics in an aquatic amusement park, and it has a fittingly playful and upbeat tune.
* The music track for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuAmRa9QD20 Sweet Sweet Canyon]] is 100% SugarWiki/SweetDreamsFuel.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RpiepDQ3KQ Thwomp Ruins]] has a fittingly adventurous track to boot. It is based on sounds and instruments of Bali, and it fits the track perfectly. And the best part is the end, where a flute comes in and plays a hauntingly adventurous melody, which gets more intensifying at the end, before it hits the last, high note, which immediately goes calm again via looping to the start. But the best part of the track emerges if you hold first place. When you're in the lead, a ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHvmV8Sv6qk sensational]]'' bass drum accompaniment kicks in.
* The Mario Circuit theme, while good in the first ''Mario Kart 8'' trailer, sounds even better [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRG2zkBcmeM orchestrated for the final version]], complete with a jazzy saxophone. Its melody is the same as MK Stadium, but here, it is more jazzy and fast paced for the atmosphere of the track in general. And so does the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVk8EWw-47U Sunshine Airport theme]], which contains muzak-like sounds and riffs, and is frantically fresh.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2N0vp4H10s Toad Harbor]]'s music really captures the feel of a casual drive through a beautiful seaside town, and almost makes you forget the chaos that you and up to eleven other racers are currently in.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIjsPDSHN70 Twisted Mansion]]. Oh such an awesome -- and genuinely eerie -- ghost house theme -- which is also a remix of ''Double Dash!!''[='=]s version of Bowser's Castle, [[SceneryPorn and the track it's used on looks even better.]]
* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0isN9bFA7k Shy Guy Falls]] is so awesome even the Shy Guys in the stage [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYJI1AUjTWI hum to its infectious melody!]]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ksy7p3LaBw Dolphin Shoals]] is pure saxophone magic. While it starts off calm and calypso-like, it gets more jazzy at the end of each lap, until the final lap where the jazz levels reach maximum. Taken to further depths with the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55m5E7tOVWA extended version played exclusively in highlight reels]].
* A rave is probably not what comes to mind when you think ''Mario Kart'' music, and yet [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t83Uj-GlufY Electrodrome]] has everything in a track you'd expect to hear at an electronic music club, and it's amazing too. Just like with Music Park in ''7'', the music can be re-arranged during the race by driving through paths that change the sound while you drive.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcMjtg8J6hc Mount Wario]]'s BGM probably has more effort put into it than any other track in the game. Much like the course itself, it doesn't repeat until the very end, meaning that almost two minutes of music, which gradually gets more intense and less relaxed as the race gets closer to the end, only plays ''once'' during any given race. The repeating bit, by the way, is probably the shortest music loop in the series, clocking in at about ''15 seconds''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAGy1ZZp2ik Cloudtop Cruise]]'s level design is not only very reminiscent of ''VideoGame/SuperMarioGalaxy'', but its music also includes part of the [[AwesomeMusic/SuperMarioGalaxy Gusty Garden Galaxy and Sky Station Galaxy themes]], and goes from symphony to [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqqqC4U55Po electric guitar]] in the thunderstorm section. Try [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXUb66WXHIk matching both versions]] for pure Galaxy epicness.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8HcV15kszo Bone-Dry Dunes]] is a gorgeous, lush piece with Arab folk instruments, providing the perfect contrast against [[ThatOneLevel one of the toughest tracks in the game]].
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vU3Fw8JiLI The new Bowser's Castle theme]] starts off sounding heavy metal-like, and just gets better from there. It also has {{Musical Nod}}s to Bowser's Highway Showdown from ''VideoGame/SuperMario3DWorld'' and the final boss theme of ''VideoGame/SuperMarioWorld2YoshisIsland''.
* Pretty much tradition now, but [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Lg9EpGHAIg Rainbow Road]]'s music is excellent. This time, the MusicalNod comes from ''DS''[='=]s version.
* The music from the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlGprrG6UhY waiting room]] during online races is pretty upbeat.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa21uDOkwyM Wii Moo Moo Meadows]] is a perfect fit for the course it plays on. It's beautifully relaxing, to the point where you sometimes forget it's supposed to be playing during a race.
* You'd be forgiven for thinking that [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ils7JPU_1As GBA Mario Circuit]] was a new piece, given how catchy it is now.
* ''Double Dash!!'''s Dry Dry Desert received [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdJYielL6jU an orchestrated remix]] for this game. It makes the piece more realistic and lively. That is, until you listen to the even better, funkier frontrunning version.
* The energetic "circuit" theme from ''Mario Kart 64'' is remixed for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mj02z-PXvVM N64 Royal Raceway]], and it's somehow even catchier than before.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi8o13RYg1k DS Wario Stadium]] (which would later be reused for DS Waluigi Pinball in the Booster Course Pass for ''8 Deluxe'') sounds absolutely glorious. It is more funky and electronic, which is reminiscent of the original version.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm8-A5lQV68 N64 Yoshi Valley]] is given a complete rerecording, and it fits the new Yoshi Valley just as well as the original theme fit the original course.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV2K00dzXn0 DS Tick Tock Clock]] starts off with seven truly epic ticks, followed by a fun electronic and wooden percussion track. Then when it gets to the final lap...the speed increases by 500%. ''Seriously''.
* The new arrangement of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nde5vtK0fSw 3DS Piranha Plant Slide/Pipeway]] no longer changes instrumentation when you go into the water, but the added trumpet section, cool mallet percussion, and various electronic touches more than makes up for it.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrrBZ1W4kSk N64 Rainbow Road]] really does an incredible job of paying tribute to the track it's based on, while still managing to sound new and fresh, just like the course itself.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXCqa2T_te8 The credits.]] A jazzed up medley of the title theme, Mario Circuit, Electrodrome, Thwomp Ruins and Mount Wario? Yes, please! The ending goes frantically majestic, and the flourish with the trumpet and the guitar at the very end finishes off the chaos that you've been through. Especially if you manage to complete the GP Mode by beating all of the Non-DLC cups on every mode barring 200cc. ''Especially'' if you manage to get all three-star rankings in every single one of them.
* From just the first DLC pack, we have a handful of great tracks!
** [[http://youtu.be/o_EvKEcg5fA GCN Yoshi Circuit]] makes a comeback after ''DS'' and it sounds even more vibrant and jazzier this time!
** [[http://youtu.be/KIw_5vaSPRs Excitebike Arena]], a lovely tribute to the classic ''VideoGame/{{Excitebike}}'' with a medley of the game's music.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEQUIPIYtjI Dragon Driftway]] is the first original theme in the pack. Race through ancient China while the guitar is blazing, the bass is slapping, and the traditional Chinese instruments really set the mood in a piece that is highly reminiscent of the Chai Kingdom from ''VideoGame/SuperMarioLand''.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeDvIJ-u7oM Mute City]] gives us an excellent track that blends the typical metal track of the ''VideoGame/FZero'' circuit with jazz elements in an excellent way. It gets even better when you notice that the coins are replaced with the refuel strips and that the race start theme and [[http://youtu.be/rOIpNGlxBC0 race results theme]] is taken straight from the original SNES version!
** [[http://youtu.be/Wd8vcSz2kE8 Wii Wario's Gold Mine]] returns with an updated anti-gravity section and the music has become much more whimsical and clear-sounding with a blazing banjo.
** [[http://youtu.be/RYRLEzQVqTs SNES Rainbow Road]] may be down-to-earth (literally) for its fourth round but the music is out of this world. The bouncy and energetic remix sounds new but still faithful to the original version!
** [[http://youtu.be/N0pip2zCXpM Ice Ice Outpost]], the second original theme. Compared to the energetic Mount Wario, this is the new, laidback, ice-themed track that we have been waiting for and what a treat it is to hear that sweet-sounding violin!
** And last but not least, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyE9rnjQwiA Hyrule Circuit]], an absolutely beautiful and groovy medley of several tracks from ''Franchise/TheLegendOfZelda''! {{Creator/Nintendo}} really knows how to do tributes right when you hear this music while racing through Hyrule Castle, passing through the Master Sword, and collecting Rupees!

** The instruments used for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSAb2W_1Xsw GCN Baby Park]] help give it more of a ska feel, which suits the chaos of its course well.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBTjQXXR4LA GBA Cheese Land]], with its upbeat and jazzy music, incorporating a bit of techno, is a [[StealthPun treat]] for the ears. Also, the saxophone goes ''crazy'' in the end of the last part.
** The other new course, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQqvwdCGOaI Wild Woods]], has a suitably wild theme with a xylophone and flute combo. It's also notable for being in [[UncommonTime 5/4]].
** The course based on ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossing'' gives us [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNAnIZ0Gptk this.]] And even better, there's '''four''' versions used in the track, depending on the season that is played. All four versions start with the beginning of the main theme from ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingNewLeaf'', which is followed by a musical nod to another iconic song from the ''Animal Crossing'' series. For Spring, it's the original Gamecube ''VideoGame/{{Animal Crossing|2001}}'' theme played by a relaxing horn and flute; in Summer, it's the second half of the New Leaf theme and one of the various themes used in ''New Leaf''[='=]s Main Street, all played by a happy violin and acoustic guitar; in Fall, it's the main ''Animal Crossing'' theme used in ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingWildWorld'' and ''VideoGame/AnimalCrossingCityFolk'' played by a calming acoustic guitar and harmonica; and in Winter, it's the Toy Day theme and 7PM theme from ''New Leaf'' played by a sensual saxophone and beautiful harmonica. To top it all of, the Roost's theme shows up during the race results !
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaUa6TS5EHU GBA Ribbon Road]] has been given a new surf style to its theme, which gives it a really unique feel compared to the primarily jazz or rock music in the game.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9yZkmgE-m8 Super Bell Subway]] is an original tune with a relaxing muzak-style theme similar to Sunshine Airport.
** For the grand finale, [[VideoGame/FZero Big Blue]] is [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sfo2VNqxX3Y well over two minutes]] of awesome guitar and sax. Just listen to that delicious solo starting midway through! And being a large tribute to the ''F-Zero'' series, the [[http://youtu.be/HX2EezTHTK4 final lap version]] cranks the awesomeness factor up even further.
* Its UpdatedRerelease, ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'' for the UsefulNotes/NintendoSwitch, packs some awesome new beats, especially with its battle arena themes.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcVBuT0Izvw Battle Stadium]] keeps the rhythm of competition and excitement flowing, preparing you for the battle.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWrmpCPV6QU Sweet Sweet Kingdom]] brings the SugarWiki/SweetDreamsFuel from Sweet Sweet Canyon and places it into the battle!
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNDVIqX4QNs Lunar Colony]] gives you the ScienceFiction feeling, with the swell guitar and hyperactive drums.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gjvZDB7vGQ Dragon Palace]] provides a new spin on the ancient Chinese feeling from Dragon Driftway. It even throws in chants of martial art training, when you race outside.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6YRi_zVABo 3DS Wuhu Town]] doesn't sound like the original, but it gives out a natural tone of a busy island town, especially with those conga drums.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVTRkvCkVoM GCN Luigi's Mansion]] keeps the ''VideoGame/LuigisMansion'' vibe going in your ears, while using the DS Luigi's Mansion track music.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLDf0XbvxaI SNES Battle Course 1]] gives more action to the original.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NlDINBlmec Urchin Underpass]] is a remix of "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8L54s2m1dPs?t=31 Splattack!]]", the main theme of the original ''VideoGame/Splatoon1'', with faster beats and more drums. The game also gives us a [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-GIdUx-cvg remix of "Now or Never"]].
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TL-kakxrLzo The Wireless Play menu theme]] is simply catchy and offers the simple scratches of the disc on a DJ's set. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QjRa9Xo3i8 The unused remix]] mixes in some EDM feeling.
* ''8 Deluxe'' includes another set of DLC, titled the Booster Course Pass, which brings back a whole bunch of classic tracks from past games which include amazing new remixes. And unlike ''Tour'', these new remixes are still done by the Mario Kart Band orchestra, just like the base game's music, creating a more symphonic experience.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sTBy05qrx0 Tour Paris Promenade]] remastered the original track but with live instruments which makes you feel like you're in the city itself.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=593KS-FC_lA&t=40s 3DS Toad Circuit]] takes the original track, which already sounded amazing, and updates it with real instruments once again and makes you feel like you're in jazz heaven.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqZ-hFFLFEE N64 Choco Mountain]] returns and somehow it sounds even better than the original. You'll think you've died and gone to bluegrass heaven.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWGixf0luDs Wii Coconut Mall]] returns yet again and to no one's surprise, it sounds absolutely amazing.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-MJkIcE8MY Tour Tokyo Blur]] takes a similar route to the remix of Toad Circuit and remasters the original track, making it sound like jazz heaven.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwipogiFaPM DS Shroom Ridge]] combines electronic and jazz and it just ''works''. A little too well.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deQ0b9h-vrE GBA Sky Garden]] makes another comeback, and it's incredibly fun and jazzy and just makes you want to dance.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tJ38xjBbLU Tour Ninja Hideaway]] also appears here and the music sounds very similar to the original, which is already amazing, and updates some of the instruments to make it sound much more lively.
** Kicking off Wave 2, we have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPdM3ZQQNKI Tour New York Minute]], the swankiest jazz to ever grace ''Mario Kart''.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qGmxdWz2dI SNES Mario Circuit 3]] is mostly unchanged, but the brand new live drum line fits it perfectly.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qsKAXV0F_M N64 Kalimari Desert]] has a beautifully lonely feeling, especially when the pan flute kicks in.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xJ3hVhsQEI Tour Sydney Sprint]] somehow improves upon the perfection of the original.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56-3qWLfuoA GBA Snow Land]] is just so darned ''happy.''
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OL_5IKFde3o Wii Mushroom Gorge]] hasn't changed much, but the added guitar line gives it an extra edge.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4pZSsb5wjU Sky-High Sundae]] is the first course to debut in the Booster Pass, and its theme is both musically complex and ''really catchy''.
** Wave 3 begins with the downright ''rocking'' [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAxJlLB8WJo Tour London Loop]].
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfMlIAd8P_Y GBA Boo Lake]] starts off incredibly menacing, then melds it with some serious jazz drumwork.
** With both London Loop and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znuftt4Lwuw 3DS Rock Rock Mountain]] sharing a cup, the Rock Cup earns its name in more than just geography.
** [[https://youtu.be/aJAPDCEXsGA Wii Maple Treeway]] is somehow even ''better'', what with the beautiful combination of soprano saxophone, violin, and flute.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oa_pKxJRRjs Tour Berlin Byways]] is just as catchy, and the horns give it an added edge.
** The added violin in [[https://youtu.be/JLzRnjzW-GA DS Peach Gardens]] make an already beautiful song even more elegant.
** [[https://youtu.be/0LRLEQ3kMk4 Merry Mountain]] really benefits from a full live orchestra, and will fill you with holiday spirit no matter the time of year.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtP351pCbM4 3DS Rainbow Road]] sells a feeling of finality with its emotional chords and driving EDM beats -- the last course of its cup, the last course of the year, and the last course of the first half of the pass. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBkW9AvAxis The version that plays on the moon]] trades in its pulsing beats for a beautiful serenity.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_a53IsI--c4 Tokyo Blur]] is a vibrant and energetic band track that takes cues from Toad Circuit with some lamenting that [[LongSongShortScene the course is too short for the song]].
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO2kb3JhU9E Vancouver Velocity]] boasts a stylish techno melody and incredibly danceable beats fitting its colorful wintery aesthetic.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3HQDZ-6Md8 Berlin Byways]] is a catchy electronic track that adds ClassicalMusic to the mix.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tf_7CsoAXHg GBA Sunset Wilds]] gets a remastered track, and now feels like something right out of a Western movie.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVzFk25MrMU&t=218s Ninja Hideaway]] is an awesome mixture of techno rock and traditional Japanese instruments, really reminding you of how [[GratuitousNinja awesome ninjas are]].

* ''8 Deluxe'' includes another set of DLC, titled the ''Booster Course Pass'', which brings back a whole bunch of classic tracks from past games which include amazing new remixes. And unlike ''Tour'', these new remixes are still done by the Mario Kart Band orchestra, just like the base game's music, creating a more symphonic experience.

** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtP351pCbM4 3DS Rainbow Road]] sells a feeling of finality with its emotional chords and driving EDM beats -- the last course of its cup, the last course of its cup, the last course of the year, and the last course of the first half of the pass. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBkW9AvAxis The version that plays on the moon]] trades in its pulsing beats for a beautiful serenity.

** [[https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=VqZ-hFFLFEE N64 Choco Mountain]] returns and somehow it sounds even better than the original. You'll think you've died and gone to bluegrass heaven.

** [[https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FwipogiFaPM DS Shroom Ridge]] combines electronic and jazz and it just ''works''. A little too well.
** [[https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=deQ0b9h-vrE GBA Sky Garden]] makes another comeback, and it's incredibly fun and jazzy and just makes you want to dance.

** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4NcUi3dBJg The Wireless Play menu theme]] is simply catchy and offers the simple scratches of the disc on a DJ's set. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UweWePHJQ_g The unused remix]] mixes in some EDM feeling.

** [[https://youtu.be/zPqPrltCzO0 DS Shroom Ridge]] combines electronic and jazz and it just ''works''. A little too well.

** [[https://youtu.be/x1iuI6bo1TY GBA Sky Garden]] makes another comeback, and it's incredibly fun and jazzy and just makes you want to dance.

** [[https://youtu.be/wiQakUJBllE N64 Choco Mountain]] returns and somehow it sounds even better than the original. You'll think you've died and gone to bluegrass heaven.

* Once you listen to [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1u3WCBj6U8 the title screen's music]], you know you're in for one of the wackiest and most insane ''Mario Kart'' games in the franchise!

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cL0BvMQQkwI Peach Beach/Daisy Cruiser]] [[JustForPun drives]] home the concept of beach levels. It's that relaxing. And like the main circuit theme, it returns in ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y99wX-JZGJo Baby Park]] creates an appropriately fairground-like atmosphere for course it accompanies.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu-yWxG26h0 Tilt-a-Kart's music]] may be the same as Baby Park, but includes a MusicalNod to the first few notes of the famous Mario theme.
* Dry Dry Desert, with [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r30gfQC3TY0 its suitably Egyptian-sounding theme]], ended the game's Mushroom Cup with a bang.
* The theme for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFeVCFDouzQ Mushroom City and Mushroom Bridge]], a really good and jazzy piece that fits the tone of a big-city like course.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMyFkraDzyY Waluigi Stadium/Wario Colosseum]] is a suitably brassy, upbeat theme for tracks bearing the names of the Mario Brothers' "evil opposites". Like the main circuit theme, this one even returns for ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1OXl7LVNK0 DK Mountain/Dino Dino Jungle]] is fast-paced and fits both levels' jungle atmosphere excellently. This is also the last of the four themes to return for ''Mario Kart Wii'' unremixed.

* ''Double Dash!!'' has one of the ''Mario Kart'' series' most popular [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHdEjH_7YY8 Rainbow Road]] music tracks, which includes a MusicalNod to the ''Super Mario Kart'' version in the introduction and to the ''Mario Kart 64'' version in the second half. This version was awesome enough to get into ''Brawl'' without being remixed at all. Someone thought up some lyrics for it and created [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuX5_OWObA0 this]] [[MemeticMutation hilarious gem]].
* Beating ''Mario Kart: Double Dash!!'' rewards the player with a final theme in the form of an amazing [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kET1cOHV-fY jazz piano rendition of the main theme]].
* The boisterous music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIDYiBl-7lA Balloon Battle]] fits the anything-goes mayhem of multiplayer battle modes perfectly.

* What's a ''Mario Kart'' game without a track that comes packed with NightmareFuel? Picking up from Ghost Valley, the track used for [[https://youtu.be/agtbhkWq9JE Boo Lake and Broken Pier]] have that and more... [[ThatOneLevel way more...]]

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7NlIMfqrSU The menu music]] is so catchy, you may find yourself sitting at the menu for longer than necessary just to listen to it.
* The relaxing tropical sounds of the music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmgToo9aCv8 Shy Guy Beach and Cheep-Cheep Island]] continue the trend of nice beach themes... and also take a lot of the sting out of the frustration [[ThatOneLevel the stage hazards can cause]].

* What's a ''Mario Kart'' game without a track that comes packed with NightmareFuel? Picking up from Ghost Valley, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31BaVt05384 Boo Lake/Broken Pier]] have that and more... [[ThatOneLevel way more...]]

* The generally chaotic drives through [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEQW--3yx9I Coconut Mall]] are set to an appropriately boisterous and upbeat music track. It even goes well in time while racing! The catchy tune in the beginning symbolizes the moment when entering the mall, while the jazzy riff at the middle symbolizes going through the mall and its shops itself, and the ending with the accordions symbolize the moment you need to stop shopping and go home. No, really.

* The lively [[https://youtu.be/0cWb4DN44WU Mario Circuit]] track is an excellent opener for the game, and indeed the entire ''Mario Kart'' series. It even got remixed for ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBros'' ''[[https://youtu.be/h9gvuWPPZPM Brawl]]''.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkZlC_sUnQQ Trophy Presentations]], used [[AWinnerIsYou when you finish Mario GP with 3rd place or better]]. Its tune was originally in the previous game, and was brought back in ''Super Circuit''. The track would later get remixed and/or modified in later games (e.g. a calypso remix for ''Double Dash!!'', a modified version in ''DS'', a majestic remix in ''Wii'', an up-beat modified version in ''7'', and a glorious, epic and flourishing remix in ''8'').
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFyHxMRyaKA No Trophy For You!]] starts off identically to "Trophy Presentations", but then gradually goes slower and darker as your character drives away deprived of a trophy, and then [[LettingTheAirOutOfTheBand the band dies out]] as they promptly [[HumiliationConga get blown the hell up by a Bomb Kart]]. It drives home the fact that [[ThisLoserIsYou you've]] ''[[ThisLoserIsYou failed]]'', and [[TheComputerShallTauntYou makes fun of your failure]] via a short jingle playing at the GP results.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vm4pEjfnN8g main circuit theme]] follows in the footsteps of the "Mario Circuit" theme from ''Super Mario Kart'' by firing up the player for the hours of racing fun (and/or frustration!) with an upbeat, energetic tune. It also plays on Wario Stadium, for some reason.
* Another incredibly catchy tune is [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfC6e3sVBng Moo Moo Farm/Yoshi Valley]]. It fits the atmosphere of both levels ''perfectly''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXU9-w2Lqyk Koopa Troopa Beach]] has a really upbeat, tropical flavor and super catchy steel drum melody! This kicks off the franchise's known good reputation for [[OnceAnEpisode making great beach stages and great music to accompany them]].
* The "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2N_8pj3N454 Kalimari Desert]]" theme is a pleasant arrangement of the ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Grass Land map theme, dotted sporadically throughout with the EpicRiff on flute from ''Film/TheGoodTheBadAndTheUgly'''s main theme.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alMKknwl02g Toad's Turnpike]] might be ThatOneLevel, and a pretty straightforward one, but its music is especially relaxing without the other noises in the background.
* The smooth, laid-back [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNYFdankntY Frappe Snowland/Sherbet Land]] is just perfect for an ice track. It even returns for ''Mario Kart Wii'', mostly unremixed.

** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_J5KeueeFI N64 Banshee Boardwalk]] manages to mantain the original's {{nightmare fuel}}ing vibe, and arguably outdoes the original thanks to the improved music effects.

* The generally chaotic drives through [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEQW--3yx9I Coconut Mall]] are set to an appropriately boisterous and upbeat music track. It even goes well in time while racing! The catchy tune in the beginning symbolises the moment when entering the mall, while the jazzy riff at the middle symbolises going through the mall and its shops itself, and the ending with the accordions symbolise the moment you need to stop shopping and go home. No, really.

* The track used for [[https://youtu.be/7NMQUBOXu1g Bowser's Castle]] is actually a remix of Bowser's intro and boss theme from ''VideoGame/SuperMarioWorld''. It perfectly manages to make the track sound completely threatening as you race through the course.

* The music for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_YkWDF3LFw Daisy Circuit]] is an incredibly catchy and fun remix of the main circuit theme, perfectly suited for a [[UsefulNotes/FormulaOne Monte Carlo]]-esque street circuit.

* This game contains what most ''Mario Kart'' fans consider the absolute best theme for [[https://youtu.be/NuR39Y0qKoI Rainbow Road]], not only with several {{Musical Nod}}s to ''64'''s iteration and its Staff Roll, but also managing to sound more spacey compared to the others. There's also [[https://youtu.be/FhsYBlWbkOA a version that plays when you reach the moon-like section]] and the [[https://youtu.be/r7SrMgGAT-o final lap]] version that perfectly times itself to have 0:21 play as the player ascends a hill, positioning them perfectly into driving straight towards the sun. In one word, the entire track can be described as "emotional".

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXCqa2T_te8 The credits.]] A jazzed up medley of the title theme, Mario Circuit, Electrodrome, Thwomp Ruins and Mount Wario? Yes, please! The ending goes frantically majestic, and the flourish with the trumpet and the guitar at the very end just perfectly ends the chaos that you've been through. Especially if you manage to complete the GP Mode by beating all of the Non-DLC cups on every mode barring 200cc. ''Especially'' if you manage to get all three-star rankings in every single one of them.

** The other new course, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQqvwdCGOaI Wild Woods]], has a suitably wild theme, with a perfect xylophone and flute combo. It's also notable for being in [[UncommonTime 5/4]].

** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NlDINBlmec Urchin Underpass]] is a remix of "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8L54s2m1dPs?t=31 Splattack!]]", the main theme of the original ''VideoGame/{{Splatoon}}'', with faster beats and more drums. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-GIdUx-cvg How about its remix of "Now or Never"?]]

* The lively [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GolvMA4ZBTs Mario Circuit]] track is an excellent opener for the game, and indeed the entire ''Mario Kart'' series. Remixed for ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKBkiusXNZg Brawl]]''.
* The theme for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU_WtMHVb5c Ghost Valley]] is not only NightmareFuel, it managed to kick off the trend of dark, horrifying levels. It's also a remix for the Ghost Houses in ''VideoGame/SuperMarioWorld''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zvkMdMw3ng Rainbow Road]] is the only course in the game to get completely unique music, and it really helps to set the stage for the game's grand finale: [[AstralFinale a multicoloured track IN SPACE!]] And despite sounding blocky nowadays, it manages to remain VindicatedByHistory despite being a 16-bit track.
* The classic [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfOYecKIGyc Battle theme]]. This piece is hectic and also funky, giving off a mid 80s-early 90s vibe. It returns with an awesome remix in ''Mario Kart Wii''.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVKoHZXjLso Daisy Hills]] has a catchy, mountain-climbing feeling to it and sounds perfect for a race in a peaceful village.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FPSreg2JOI Shy Guy Bazaar]] sounds very Arabian-like with its string instruments.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0b3JraEY-k Wuhu Loop]] it's a remix of the title theme for ''Wii Sports Resort'', modified to sound truly in place for a ''Mario Kart'' game.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SAWsNAYz0U Music Park/Melody Motorway.]] This piece may have a small and upbeat tune, but combine that with the fact that you can add instruments simply by drifting through pianos and xylophones, bouncing on tambourines, as well as certain obstacles adding rhythm to it makes it even better.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTIHnX3abL0 The return of the]] [[VideoGame/SuperMarioKart SNES Rainbow Road.]] The final lap version is even more better.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7UkxekBGFc Rock Rock Mountain/Alpine Pass]]. The piece sounds like an 80's pop-rock song, but it's fitting to the course, since it's filled with adrenaline and awesomeness. Especially with that electric guitar.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kT0rxi_ly10 Piranha Plant Pipeway/Piranha Slide]]. It includes [[MusicalNod a lot of musical nods]] to the overworld and underground themes of the original ''Super Mario Bros.'' game, and has a funky riff added onto it.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jg8xM9Aqdok Wario Shipyard/Wario's Galleon]]. It has a MusicalNod to the original ''Wario Land'', along with sinister and unnerving riffs in it.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vb0TGqqqvo8 Neo Bowser City/Koopa City]] is entirely composed of excerpts from previous tracks, but remixed to sound more electric, making for an amazing homage to previous ''Mario Kart'' themes. It contains remixed parts from the main circuit theme for this game, the title screen, Toad's Turnpike, and lastly the main circuit theme from ''Mario Kart Wii''. The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URGu-GjukJ4 final lap]] is so pulse-pounding that it's practically ear candy.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izZs2RSt5eQ DK Jungle]]. It's a faster, more frantic remix of the good old Donkey Kong Country theme, and the final lap version kicks off faster than its regular version.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t67L5cAoa7E Rosalina's Ice World]]. Not bad for an ice level, as it contains wintery beats and sounds in it.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34Soxhw0ZZk Bowser's Castle]] theme has musical nods to the Gamecube version of Bowser's Castle, while having an original metal guitar riff in the beginning.
* This game contains what most ''Mario Kart'' fans consider the absolute best theme for [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhWplirtLnQ Rainbow Road]], not only with several {{Musical Nod}}s to ''64'''s iteration and its Staff Roll, but also managing to sound more spacey compared to the others. There's also [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gLkMsKu4-8 a version that plays when you reach the moon-like section]]. In one word, the entire track can be described as "emotional".
* ''7''[='=]s take on [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTIHnX3abL0 SNES Rainbow Road]] shows how well the original song holds up when all this remix needs to do is uncompress the drums and the song sounds modern again.
* ''7'' has [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUedhb9Z5Lc the best cover]] for GBA Bowser Castle tracks so far, and while sounding similar to the ''Wii'' version, it also sounds cleaner.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lahA_zwf_M The credits theme]]. Basically, it's ''7''[='=]s title theme, but performed live by a jazzy piano and a sax.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vR4Q9hGT7QQ Watch Race]]. This theme is used when you're watching an online race, while waiting to join the next one. [[LongSongShortScene You may not even get to hear the entire music before the race ends]], but it's surprisingly awesome.

* ''8 Deluxe'' includes another set of DLC, titled the ''Booster Course Pass'', which brings back a whole bunch of classic tracks from past games which include amazing new remixes.

* The "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2N_8pj3N454 Kalimari Desert]]" theme, which is a pleasant arrangement of the ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Grass Land map theme, dotted sporadically throughout with the EpicRiff on flute from ''Film/TheGoodTheBadAndTheUgly'''s main theme.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi8o13RYg1k DS Wario Stadium]] (which would later be reused for DS Waluigi Pinball in the Booster Course Pass for ''8 Deluxe''), which sounds absolutely glorious. It is more funky and electronic, which is reminiscent of the original version.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crc1Wn59nog Waluigi Pinball]] dials up the excitement and energy for a wild journey up and down a pinball table. The music is surprisingly catchy and well made, and it's very chaotic and unpredictable, like Waluigi himself. The icing on the cake: the sound effects on the Waluigi Pinball track (item box roulette, Lakitu displaying the lap number cards, passing another driver or taking the lead, etc.) are rendered in mock 8-bit sound. The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sipjRIY8u24 Brawl remix]] is completely awesome. It even takes sounds from the original version.

[[folder:''Mario Kart 8'' / ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'']]

* ''Double Dash!!'''s Dry Dry Desert received [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdJYielL6jU an orchestrated remix]] for this game. It makes the piece more realistic and lively. That is, until you listen to the even better, funkier frontrunning version.

[[folder:''Mario Kart 8'']]

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi8o13RYg1k DS Wario Stadium]] (which would later be reused for DS Waluigi Pinball in the Booster Course Pass), which sounds absolutely glorious. It is more funky and electronic, which is reminiscent of the original version.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi8o13RYg1k DS Wario Stadium]], which sounds absolutely glorious. It is more funky and electronic, which is reminiscent of the original version.

* True to form, the end credits are set to first rate music; beating 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc mode leads to a [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6SmC9fHj8k rather nostalgic, laid-back credits theme]], and while beating Mirror mode seems to lead to the same music, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ot1Nv_xr2T0 it suddenly takes off after about a minute]] for a suitably triumphant finale.

* For the grand finale, [[VideoGame/FZero Big Blue]] is [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sfo2VNqxX3Y well over two minutes]] of awesome guitar and sax. Just listen to that delicious solo starting midway through! And being a large tribute to the ''F-Zero'' series, the [[http://youtu.be/HX2EezTHTK4 final lap version]] cranks the awesomeness factor up even further.

** [[https://youtu.be/x1iuI6bo1TY GBA Sky Garden]] makes another comeback and as stated earlier, it's incredibly fun and jazzy and just makes you want to dance.

* The ''very'' infectiously catchy [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WssrSM3ybPQ Choco Mountain]] music is one of the best themes of the whole series, PERIOD. Then the [[https://youtu.be/wiQakUJBllE remixed version]] from ''8 Deluxe'' somehow makes it even better. You'll think you've died and gone to bluegrass heaven.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g68cHMi16vw Sky Garden]] has an appropriately easy-going soundtrack for a garden level. It's so good that it got not one, but ''two'' very different remixes in the first half of 2022. Do you want the [[https://youtu.be/p5shCYfLLAg delightfully danceable]] ''Tour'' version, or the [[https://youtu.be/x1iuI6bo1TY fun, jazzy]] ''8 Deluxe'' rendition?

* The electronic soundtrack of [[https://youtu.be/FQgqjTIcQWw Shroom Ridge]] is both fun and surprisingly uplifting, the [[https://youtu.be/zPqPrltCzO0 remix]] in ''8 Deluxe'' even more so.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVzFk25MrMU&t=218s Ninja Hideaway]] is an awesome mixture of techno rock and traditional Japanese instruments, really reminding you of how [[GratuitousNinja awesome ninjas are]]. The remaster in ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe''[='=]s Booster Pass is awesome too.