Tom Morello releases new song ‘Everything Burns’ for Final Fantasy XIV
Tom Morello, Beartooth’s Caleb Shomo, and Final Fantasy XIV composer Masayoshi Soken have teamed up to create a new song called ‘Everything Burns’ that is featured in the latest update for the game. This unique collaboration brings together three different worlds that wouldn’t typically intersect so seamlessly. Final Fantasy XIV is a popular online role-playing game that has been running for more than a decade and has amassed millions of players worldwide. The game is known for its epic storylines, intense emotions, and challenging boss battles, and now, it has the added allure of Morello’s signature riffs accompanying key moments in the update.
Despite not being an avid gamer himself, Morello recognizes the significant impact of Final Fantasy within the gaming world. He admits, “First thing, I admit I am not a gamer. I’m more of a pinball player, Dungeons and Dragons man myself, But I am aware of the potency of Final Fantasy in the world over the decades.” The speed at which this collaborative song came to life was astonishing, with Soken requesting Morello to contribute within 36 hours. Working closely with producer Tyler Smyth and bringing in Shomo, they were able to craft the track under immense pressure. Morello describes the experience as a “lightning-in-a-bottle moment,” where the pressure led them to create something truly exceptional.
For Soken, who is renowned for his compositions in Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy XVI, the collaboration was a surreal experience. He notes that even his orchestral work is influenced by the rock sounds of bands like Rage Against the Machine. Morello believes that the message of ‘Everything Burns’ resonates beyond the gaming world, stating, “Everything Burns is a sentiment that people living in 2025 can very much relate to.” The song’s powerful message and energetic sound make it appealing to fans of Rage Against the Machine, Beartooth, and fantasy games alike, creating a perfect fusion of various musical styles and themes.
In conclusion, ‘Everything Burns’ is not just a song for Final Fantasy fans; it transcends the boundaries of the gaming world to offer a message that is relevant to audiences from all walks of life. The collaboration between Tom Morello, Caleb Shomo, and Masayoshi Soken has resulted in a unique and impactful piece of music that bridges the gap between different genres and industries. This exciting partnership showcases the power of music to bring people together and create something truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impression on listeners far beyond the confines of the game itself.