Tribute (music)

Tribute was a song included in the Halo 3: Original Soundtrack. It plays during the ending cutscene of Halo 3, as Lord Hood gives his speech and the 3-volley salute takes place. It is meant to have both a feeling of triumph and yet sadness over the losses suffered.

It begins with a drum and strings melody similar to the theme from the ending cutscene of the Halo 2 level Cairo Station. Strings then take over with a slow and mournful melody. Higher strings and choir then join in for a second repetition. The melody continues to swell until the end, when it quickly fades.

It runs for 2:52.

Trivia

• The song incorporates several elements from both the High Charity Suite and the Cairo Suite.
• The fact that it uses elements from "The Last Spartan" is a meaningful way of sending out the (presumed dead) Master Chief, as he was (as far as Earth knew) truly the last Spartan.
• A song similar to this piece can be heard in the closing credits of Halo 2.
• Part of the song is included in a Peril remix in Halo: Out With a Whimper.