WATCH: The surprising origins of the iconic Nokia ringtone

Bongani Bingwa interviews Jonathan “Khabazela” Fairbairn about what's gone viral on social media.

Listen below.

Nothing ignites nostalgia quite like the original Nokia ringtone!

First introduced with the Nokia 2010 in 1994 as ringtone Type 5, this iconic melody has a fascinating origin story that might just blow your mind.

The Nokia tune, as we know it, is actually derived from a captivating piece of solo guitar music called Gran Vals, composed by the brilliant Francisco Tárrega in 1902.

Over the years, it has been updated to embrace technological advancements and evolving musical trends, yet its essence remains timeless.

A recent video on X, boasting an impressive 2.4 million views, showcases a guitarist playing this unforgettable tune, proving just how many of us are taken aback by its rich history.

One user described it as "probably the single most recognisable sound in the world at one point," while another remarked, "This ringtone just hits the spot in our ears. It's so soothing."

"It's one of the most recognisable sounds, I think, in the world."

- Jonathan “Khabazela” Fairbairn

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.