Sting ft. Ray Chen - 'What Could Have Been' (Arcane) LIVE at The Game Awards

This is my favorite from season 1. I’m writing a novel and I’ve looped it for some sad scenes. The lyrics, instruments, and voice really strike a mournful tone.

I believe the Youtube documentary "to bridge the gap" released before season 2 and doesn't have any spoilers if you want to check it out before season 2. It also talks about the music and score in season 1

Ray Chen, the violinist did a video discussing the recording of his part and the piece he played. It is up on his youtube

Ray Chen is violinist. He played the violin during the political scene in theatre as well

Fun fact, this song can also bee seen as Silco's farewell and love letter to both Jinx and Vander. Silco was the monster that Vander created through his betrayal. Silco loved and became attached to Jinx in a way that was his own undoing, because Jinx was betrayed similarly by Vi, and in the end he lost it all. For him to survive he would have had to kill the part of him that loved her so deeply, to let her go and forsake her. What could have been, is the brutal sadness of his last words telling Jinx that he never wanted her to change, that, to him, she was perfection. That was how I interpreted the song the first time I heard it in the finale and I balled like a baby. In a few ways, I do think that Jinx and Silco and Jinx and Vi's relationship is also paralleled, at least musically in s1 and I do love that they keep it ambiguous to allow for multiple interpretations. Yes! More s2, it has some issues, but the overall is still really enjoyable and the music is even more incredible <3

Season 2 is so good! Would love to see your reaction to it :)

the violinist is Ray Chen! I'd like "Snakes" next, it's from season 1, episode 8, when Vi and Jayce kick some serious ass! And yes, absolutely, do season 2 as well! Not only for the incredible soundtrack, but for the season overall. I don't get who says it's drastically inferior to s1, yes, I too think s1 is better, but s2 isn't that far behind, and has one of the most beautiful yet heartbreaking storylines of the whole show!

Simply a magnificent piece of music!! (And he wrote it)!! I listened to this song on repeat for months—just like almost all of Sting's songs; he has been one of my favorite artists for years. He is one of the truly great, multi-talented musicians of our time, captivating me immensely with his voice, vocals and his innovative yet timeless fusion music. This late work, especially in combination with the gorgeous violins, is incredibly moving!! (honestly I feel the same melancholy here, but no other similarity. Regardless, both bring tears to my eyes with their beauty). I discovered this song quite by chance through Forestella, when I was listening to their versions of "Warriors" and "Legends Never Die" on loop.

Yes to S2 because the music I think is even better than S1!!