Commercial background music is audio that contains popular songs or compositions in the foreground, with other sounds mixed in, such as advertising jingles or a radio playing in the background. An announcer typically reads commercials for radio and television to remain unobtrusive.
Practitioners of this type of music are often known as “audio decorators.” Modern music with an emphasis on melody is sometimes also called foreground music.
Commercial background music that features a radio playing in the background is commonly used in retail stores, with most companies using it to promote their brand names and products. The effect of this type of background music is so commonplace today that composers have begun writing melodies that are shorter and less repetitive, so it is easier for listeners to recognize the brand. Audio decorators also write music specifically designed for businesses to create a tranquil atmosphere for customers.
The use of commercial background music had become more common since the 1980s, when music was specifically written to promote brands. These songs are performed by session musicians, with lyrics that positively describe a product or service without being too direct or obvious about their intentions. Companies have also started writing more melodic jingles to make them easier for listeners to remember.
Pizza chains are particularly known for using the radio in the background of their commercials. Commercials featuring the radio are also common among car dealerships, with most companies favoring pop songs with vocals, though instrumental pieces are sometimes used. Some businesses choose to use music with lyrics to create a happier tone, while others opt for non-lyrical music since it is easier for the radio to compete with vocals.
Popular commercial background music that does not feature a radio playing in the background is known as “mood music.” Composers write this kind of music intending to create an atmosphere such as happiness or relaxation. The effectiveness of mood music is influenced by the volume at which it is played. When performed quietly, listeners are more likely to focus on the melody and less likely to be distracted by other sounds. As such, some businesses only use mood music during slow periods or when they expect few customers. Mood music can be combined with commercial jingles to create what many consider to be a more effective product promotion.
Some businesses use music to improve their public relations and increase the likelihood of returning customers. McDonald’s, for example, has used many types of commercial background music in its commercials and restaurants over the years in an attempt to promote certain aspects of its brand image, such as focusing on family values. It has been found that customers generally prefer well-known pieces of commercial background music, such as “Happy Birthday to You,” over less recognizable tunes.
In addition to using commercial background music to promote a brand name and products, businesses sometimes use this type of audio when presenting their public service announcements. Public service announcements tend to be more effective when presented in a familiar tune, which is why commercial background music is often employed in this context.
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Final thoughts
In conclusion, commercial background music is a type of music used in marketing and advertising. It can also be played in public places such as coffee shops, grocery stores, bars, clubs, etc. It has become popular to use this type of music when writing jingles in the past few decades because they are easier for listeners to remember.
Many businesses in the United States use commercial background music in their advertisements, though it is more common among car dealerships and pizza chains. Some businesses also use this type of audio when presenting public service announcements.
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