Are you thinking about starting a podcast and want to make it truly memorable? Then, you MUST pay attention to the magical world of podcast jingles! You know, those catchy tunes that dance into your ears and instantly make you want to groove along. Well, guess what? The way you start and end your podcast can have a significant impact on its success. (More tips for a successful podcast HERE!)
Imagine this: You hit play on a podcast episode, and within seconds, a lively jingle starts playing. It’s like a sonic invitation that captivates your listener’s attention and sets the stage for an incredible audio experience. That’s the power of a well-crafted podcast jingle. It’s like your podcast’s very own theme song, capturing the essence of your content and your unique personality.
A good jingle also has the power to make your podcast engaging, dynamic, and memorable. It sets the tone for what’s to come, creating ANTICIPATION and EXCITEMENT. Plus, a jingle helps your podcast stand out in a sea of audio content. It becomes your unique identifier, making it easier for your target audience to find and remember YOUR show.
Now, you might be wondering where to find or how to make that perfect jingle. Today, we’re sharing practical and creative tips that can guide you to make a catchy jingle that matches your brand.
How To Make A Jingle For A Podcast
Know your podcast’s vibe.
Before you embark on the jingle-making journey, it’s important to understand the vibe of your podcast. Ask yourself: What’s the overall tone and theme of your show? Is it fun and lighthearted, or perhaps informative and professional? Just like a catchy jingle, a good podcast intro can instantly grab attention. They help you make a memorable first impression and leave your listeners wanting more. Find intro music that reflects your podcast’s theme and gets people excited to dive into your content.
Define your brand identity.
Your podcast jingle is an extension of your brand. So, take a moment to define your brand identity. The first thing you’ll need is a killer intro script. Think about your target audience and what would resonate with them. This will serve as a guiding light when crafting your jingle and ensure it reflects the essence of your podcast.
Keep it short and sweet.
In the fast-paced world we live in, attention spans are short. So, aim for a jingle that’s brief and memorable. A length of around 10 to 15 seconds is ideal. Think of it as a musical snapshot that captures the essence of your podcast in a concise and captivating way.
Catchy melodies are key.
The heart of any jingle lies in its melody. You want a melody that gets stuck in your listener’s head like a happy little earworm. Play around with different musical ideas, and experiment with catchy hooks and memorable tunes. Remember, ladies & gents, simplicity can be a powerful tool in creating a jingle that lingers long after the episode is over.
Lyrics or no lyrics?
The decision to include lyrics in your jingle is entirely up to you, darlings. Lyrics can add a personal touch and convey specific messages. However, instrumental jingles can be just as effective, allowing the music to speak for itself. Consider the style of your podcast and what feels right for your audience.
Reflect on your podcast’s genre.
Is your podcast a comedy show, a true crime exploration, or a wellness and self-care haven? Make sure your jingle reflects the genre of your podcast. Use musical elements, instrumentation, and rhythms that align with your chosen genre. This helps set the right expectations for your listeners and creates a cohesive audio experience.
Hire a musician or use royalty-free music.
If you’re musically inclined, you can compose your own jingle. However, if musical notation isn’t your forte, fear not! There are plenty of talented musicians and composers who can create a jingle tailored to your podcast’s needs. Alternatively, there are plenty of platforms out there where you can find awesome tunes to spice up your intros and outros. Some popular options include Epidemic Sound, Artlist, and Soundstripe. These platforms offer a wide variety of music genres to suit your podcast’s unique style.
Experiment with sound effects.
Adding sound effects to your jingle can elevate its impact and make it stand out even more. Consider incorporating relevant sound effects that align with your podcast’s theme. For example, if you have a travel podcast, include sounds of footsteps or a distant wave crashing. These subtle additions can make your jingle truly shine.
Test, revise, and repeat.
Once you have your jingle, don’t be afraid to test it out on a few trusted friends or fellow podcasters. Gather their feedback and make revisions as needed. The beauty of jingles is that they can evolve over time. You can always make adjustments and refinements to ensure your jingle is a perfect fit for your podcast.
Integrate your jingle strategically.
Now that you have your shiny new jingle, it’s time to strategically integrate it into your podcast. Consider using it at the beginning of each episode as a captivating introduction. This primes your listeners and gets them excited for what’s to come. You can also sprinkle it throughout your show as background music or even use it as a memorable outro. The key is to find the right balance that complements your content and keeps your audience engaged.
Create a consistent brand experience.
Your jingle is more than just a catchy tune; it’s an essential element of your podcast’s brand experience. Use it consistently across all your episodes (and even your socials!) to create a cohesive and recognizable identity. When listeners hear your jingle, they’ll immediately associate it with your show, building a strong brand presence in their minds.
Jingles can also be used throughout your podcast when you have something important to tell your listeners. Because after all, let’s not forget the importance of a strong call to action. Whether you’re encouraging your listeners to subscribe, leave a review, or visit your social media profiles, a compelling call to action can work wonders. Make sure it’s clear, concise, and aligned with your podcast’s goals.
Best Podcast Jingles
“The Skinny Confidential Him & Her Podcast” with Lauryn Evarts Bosstick & Michael Bosstick
Lauryn and Michael know how to make an entrance with their jingle. It’s upbeat, energetic, and instantly grabs your attention. The jingle perfectly captures the essence of their podcast, which is all about lifestyle, wellness, and relationships. What we can learn from them is the importance of infusing your jingle with the spirit of your podcast. Let it reflect your unique content and make your listeners excited for the wisdom and fun that awaits them.
“Rise Podcast” with Rachel Hollis
Rachel Hollis’s jingle is like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day. It’s bright, uplifting, and radiates positivity. The jingle aligns seamlessly with Rachel’s message of empowerment and personal growth. What we can take away from this is the power of music to set the tone for your podcast. Use your jingle to create an atmosphere that matches the emotions and themes you explore in your episodes.
“The Bitch Bible” with Jackie Schimmel
Oh, Jackie sure knows how to make an impression with her jingle! Jackie Schimmel’s jingle is sassy, bold, and unapologetically fabulous, just like her podcast. It’s a prime example of how a jingle can embody the host’s personality and brand. What we can learn here is to let our jingles reflect our unique voice and style. Don’t be afraid to inject a little bit of your personality into your jingle to make it stand out.
“Super Soul” with Oprah Winfrey
When it comes to legendary jingles, Oprah Winfrey takes the crown. The jingle for her “Super Soul” podcast is powerful, soul-stirring, and instantly recognizable. Oprah’s jingle is a testament to the impact of simplicity. Sometimes, a few notes and a heartfelt melody are all it takes to create a jingle that resonates deeply with your listeners. So, don’t underestimate the power of simplicity in making your jingle memorable.
“Work Party” with Jaclyn Johnson
Jaclyn Johnson’s podcast, “Work Party,” has a jingle that exudes sophistication and confidence. It sets the tone for insightful conversations on entrepreneurship, career growth, and success. Jaclyn’s jingle teaches us the power of using music to establish the ambiance and elevate the listening experience. Think about the emotions and atmosphere you want to evoke in your audience and let your jingle be the gateway to that world.
“Absolutely Not” with Heather McMahan
Heather McMahan’s podcast, “Absolutely Not,” is a hilarious and unfiltered take on life’s absurdities. And her jingle? Equally hilarious and unfiltered! Heather’s jingle perfectly captures her larger-than-life personality and comedic style. It’s a reminder that your jingle is an opportunity to showcase your unique voice and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Let it reflect your authenticity and make it a true extension of your brand.
“Breaking Beauty Podcast” with Jill Dunn & Carlene Higgins
Jill and Carlene, the hosts of “Breaking Beauty Podcast,” have a jingle that’s as captivating as the world of beauty itself. Their jingle strikes a balance between elegance and playfulness, mirroring the beauty industry they explore. Take inspiration from their jingle and consider how you can incorporate elements that are synonymous with your podcast’s niche or subject matter. Let your jingle be a reflection of the world you’re inviting your listeners into.
“Girl’s Gotta Eat” with Rayna Greenberg & Ashley Hesseltine
Last but certainly not least, we have the unstoppable duo Rayna and Ashley from “Girl’s Gotta Eat.” Their jingle is a testament to the power of simplicity and catchiness. It’s a delightful earworm that perfectly complements their lighthearted discussions on love, relationships, and everything in between. Take a page from their book and remember that a memorable jingle doesn’t have to be complex. Sometimes, simplicity and a catchy melody can work wonders in capturing your audience’s attention.
Let your podcast shine with the RIGHT jingle.
Remember, your podcast is an opportunity to share your passions, expertise, and unique voice with the world. So, have fun with it! Let your creativity shine and create a podcast that leaves a lasting impression. Now go forth, rock those intros and outro music as you record your podcast, and let it sparkle like the gem it is!
For more tips on what makes a podcast good or how to get music for your podcast consult our blog. We offer quality tips and so much more on all things podcasting.