Ben Daglish
Melody maker of the SID scene
Ben Daglish composed unforgettable C64 soundtracks including The Last Ninja, blending catchy melodies with technical mastery.
Overview
Ben Daglish was one of the most prolific and beloved composers of the C64 era. His work on The Last Ninja, Trap, and dozens of other titles showcased an ability to write instantly memorable melodies while pushing the SID chip’s capabilities. He often collaborated with programmer Anthony Lees, who built the music drivers that brought Daglish’s compositions to life.
Fast facts
- Prolific output: composed music for over 100 games across C64, Amstrad, and other platforms.
- The Last Ninja (1987): his most celebrated work, with Asian-influenced themes that perfectly matched the game’s atmosphere.
- Daglish/Lees partnership: worked closely with programmer Anthony Lees, who created custom music routines.
- Live performance: performed SID music live at retro gaming events in later years.
- Passed away: October 2018, mourned widely by the retro computing community.
Notable soundtracks
- The Last Ninja (1987): atmospheric, Eastern-tinged melodies that defined the game’s identity.
- Trap (1987): tense, driving music that enhanced the game’s action.
- Deflektor (1987): puzzle game with an unexpectedly catchy soundtrack.
- Harvey Headbanger (1987): comedic game with equally playful music.
Musical approach
Daglish prioritised melody and mood:
- Singable themes: his music stuck in players’ heads, hummed in playgrounds across Britain.
- Atmosphere matching: tailored compositions to each game’s setting and tone.
- Efficient coding: worked within tight memory constraints without sacrificing musicality.
Legacy
Daglish remained connected to the retro scene until his death, performing at events and engaging with fans who’d grown up with his music. His work on The Last Ninja alone would secure his place in gaming history; his broader catalogue cemented it.