Using Trending Sounds in Social Media Ads

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook continue to dominate the online space. And advertisers are constantly hunting for innovative strategies to capture the attention of users scrolling through endless feeds. 

One such dynamic approach that has gained momentum is the use of trending sounds in social media ads. 

In this blog post, we’re diving into the impact of audio in advertising, explore the concept of trending sounds, and uncover the significance of staying attuned to the pulse of these trends. 

Let’s get right into it then.

The Power of Audio in Social Media Ads

Audio proves to be a potent force in creating lasting impressions. While captivating visuals certainly draw the eye, it's the harmonious blend of sound and imagery that truly etches an advertisement into the memory of the viewer.

This is because audio has a unique ability to evoke emotions, tell stories, and establish a connection with the audience on a deeper level. It can be a catchy jingle, a compelling voiceover, or the perfect soundtrack. 

While visuals grab attention, audio sustains it. An ad that seamlessly blends eye-catching visuals with an irresistible soundtrack or voiceover stands a better chance of holding the viewer's focus amid the digital cacophony.

Understanding Trending Sounds

Trending sounds have become the heartbeat of online culture, pulsating through the feeds of millions and leaving an indelible mark on the internet.

Trending sounds refer to audio clips, music snippets, or sound effects that gain rapid popularity and widespread use across various social media platforms. These sounds often become viral sensations, finding their way into user-generated content, memes, and, importantly, the advertisements that punctuate our digital experiences.

These infectious sounds often find their origins on platforms that are hotbeds of creativity and trends. TikTok, for instance, has emerged as a breeding ground for viral sounds, with users showcasing their dance moves, comedic skits, or challenges set to a particular soundtrack. 

However, the ripple effect extends beyond TikTok, as these sounds migrate to platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and even traditional advertising spaces.

The virality of trending sounds often hinges on their ability to resonate with the zeitgeist, reflecting current trends, moods, or cultural references. As users embrace these sounds in their content, a snowball effect occurs, amplifying their reach and ensuring they permeate the social media channels.

Benefits of Using Trending Sounds in Ads

Increased engagement and shareability

Incorporating popular sounds into ads not only captures the attention of the audience but also encourages interaction and sharing. 

Because users are more likely to engage with content that feels familiar and resonates with the current cultural milieu. 

Take a look at this viral UGC video we created for one of our clients...

This one video alone generated over tens of thousands of dollars for the client. We made it because we knew it had great shareability and the potential to go viral.

The shareability of such content becomes a powerful ally for businesses looking to advertise on social media, amplifying the reach of the ad beyond its initial audience and into the expansive realms of social media virality.

Aligning with popular culture and audience interests

Trending sounds are, by their nature, rooted in the current cultural zeitgeist. Leveraging these sounds in ads allows you to align your brand seamlessly with what's buzzing in popular culture. 

By tapping into the same sounds that captivate and entertain users on their favorite platforms, you can position your brand as in-tune with the interests and preferences of your target audience. 

This alignment creates a subtle yet impactful association, portraying the brand as not just a product or service but as a participant in the shared experiences and conversations of the digital community.

How To Identify and Track Trending Sounds

One of the best ways to identify trendy sounds is through TikTok’s Creative Center. Our creative team always goes to the creative center to find the current viral videos, and they then find the source of music in those videos.

You can also follow active TikTok and Instagram accounts that post content with viral sounds. This is another great way to find and track what’s popping up in people’s feeds currently.

Since you’re here already, I’m assuming you’re looking to find new ways to market your business. If that’s the case, we’re a social media marketing agency that takes the headache off you and gets everything done for you.

We’ve done marketing from start to finish for 100s of eCommerce businesses over the last 4 years. If you’d like to explore how we can help, book a FREE 30-min growth session with us now.

We currently only work with select brands that fit our criteria, to make sure we maximize the impact of our services across clients.

Overcoming the Biggest Challenge

We’ve talked about the honey so far. It’s time for the bitter side now, and that’s copyright issues.

Using copyrighted music in ads without proper authorization can lead to legal repercussions, including takedown notices, fines, and damage to a brand's reputation. 

The very sounds that enhance engagement and connection may inadvertently become a source of contention, posing a substantial obstacle to the seamless incorporation of trending sounds into advertising content.

The key to overcoming this challenge lies in the strategic use of royalty-free music and obtaining the necessary licensing. Royalty-free music is a cost-effective solution that allows you to use music without the need for per-use payments. 

If a piece of music isn’t royalty-free, then obtaining the appropriate licenses from the copyright holders ensures legal compliance, granting the right to use the music in ads while compensating the creators for their work.

Conclusion

As the digital audience continues to dance to the beat of trending sounds, brands must not only follow the rhythm but also set their own unique cadence. 

The ability to harness the cultural currency embedded in these sounds, coupled with a keen understanding of the legal nuances, positions you at the forefront of the ever-shifting social media landscape.

And if you need a professional to help you out with this marketing aspect of your business, book a FREE 30-min growth session to discover how we can help you.

In this age of engagement and innovation, the resonance of trending sounds extends beyond a mere trend—it becomes a strategic tool for businesses like yours to amplify their voices and leave a lasting imprint in the hearts and minds of the digital audience. 

Hope that sets the stage clear. Good luck!