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Unlocking the Power of ASMR: A Guide to Seamless Integration in Your Content

Scouring the internet you find a multitude of videos featuring gentle whispers, random hand movements, and soothing sounds tagged with #strangelysatisfying. This is the realm of ASMR, a captivating experience that, when harnessed correctly, emerges as a potent marketing tool, creating pleasant experiences and aiding relaxation.

ASMR refers to autonomous sensory meridian response—a tingling sensation typically felt at the back of the head and down the spine in response to certain stimuli in videos. While inducing relaxation and tranquility, ASMR triggers are highly individualistic, ranging from sounds like whispers, eating, or crunching leaves to visuals of repetitive tasks or personal care scenes.

In essence, ASMR provides a pleasurable experience for those who respond to it, yet it remains elusive for many. The triggers are not universal, and the reasons behind its occurrence remain unknown. However, this shouldn't dissuade its integration into your product and marketing content.

Reasons to Incorporate ASMR in Your Videos

The popularity of ASMR, evident from 16.3 million Instagram posts under #ASMR and 4 million under #oddlysatisfying as of January 2024, makes it a compelling inclusion in your content. Videos tagged with #oddlysatisfying on TikTok boast an impressive 140 billion views, underscoring its broad appeal.

Transcending conventional sensory marketing in food and beverages, ASMR opens avenues for unique product representations. Whether it's the sound of a running shoe on mud, keyboard tapping for computer hardware, or the experience of online activities, ASMR allows you to spotlight different facets of your product through satisfying sounds and visuals.

The pleasurable physical response induced by ASMR videos enhances their memorability. In the realm of marketing, creating a lasting impression is crucial. Associating a product with a pleasant sensory experience ensures it stays etched in the consumer's memory, a significant achievement in brand awareness.

Beyond crafting ASMR content, a few additional considerations enhance its effectiveness:

Not everyone experiences ASMR, so it should complement a suite of content to cater to a broader audience.

Tolerance to ASMR triggers builds over time. Regularly refreshing sounds and visuals is essential for sustained effectiveness.

Relevance is paramount. Ensure the sounds or visuals align with the product and target market for meaningful impact.

Meticulously creating ASMR sounds and incorporating them thoughtfully in your projects unlocks a potent marketing tool. While the creation process demands care, the results, when memorable for the right reasons, are impactful.

Unmissable Tech and Advertising Events in 2024

In the rapidly evolving realm of marketing, staying abreast of the latest trends and strategies is paramount. Marketing conferences provide an invaluable opportunity for professionals to glean insights, exchange ideas, and forge connections with peers. With a plethora of both in-person and virtual events on the horizon for 2024, we've curated a list of must-attend conferences in the tech, advertising, and marketing domains to ensure your strategies remain dynamic and effective.

This mega event seamlessly blends the best of music, film, and interactive media, offering exciting talks and engaging activities. In 2024, SXSW stands as a pivotal gathering for creative minds.

Bringing together top creative professionals and industry insights, the Adobe Summit is a focal point for those seeking to elevate their digital marketing strategies in 2024. With a combination of in-person and virtual sessions, this summit showcases the power of the Adobe Suite, including Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects.

Tailored for brand marketers, this conference delves deep into brand-building strategies and explores the latest digital marketing trends. If mastering marketing in 2024 is your goal, this is the conference for you.

An event for marketing and advertising professionals, Advertising Week Europe promises the latest insights and a chance to connect with the brightest minds in European advertising, whether virtually or in person.

As AI continues to reshape all landscapes, this summit provides insights into the latest AI technologies and their application in marketing strategies. Stay ahead in the evolving world of AI with this indispensable technology conference.

A celebration of innovation in business, this festival is ideal for those seeking to infuse creativity and forward-thinking into their marketing strategies. Attend in person or join the conversation online through their virtual event offering.

A pivotal meeting place for digital business, marketing, and innovation, Dmexco draws professionals from around the globe to gain valuable insights and leverage networking opportunities.

Offering a deep dive into brand marketing and the latest trends shaping advertising and branding industries, this conference equips marketing professionals with the essentials to stay on top in 2024.

In a world where content reigns supreme, this conference is indispensable for refining content marketing strategies. Explore the latest trends and gain insights to perfect your content strategy in 2024.

Demystifying Sound Design: A Comprehensive Guide

Unlocking the secrets of sound design is essential for creating immersive and impactful content across various mediums. Let’s delve into the world of sound design, unraveling its definition, applications, and the intricacies involved.

Sound design is a multifaceted process encompassing the acquisition, editing, and integration of audio elements within visual media. It involves recording, downloading, editing, mixing, and mastering—essentially anything done to convey sound from speakers to screens falls under the umbrella of sound design.

Sound design plays a pivotal role in crafting a convincing soundscape for your content. For instance, a TV show set on an Oklahoman ranch would incorporate sounds of hooves on well-trodden land, wind whistling through floorboards, and ranchers chewing on pieces of hay. Effective sound design enhances the believability and authenticity of your content.

A sound designer's responsibilities are extensive and may include:

Recording, either on location or in a studio.

Mixing, either live or during post-production.

Sound editing tasks like layering, splicing, and manipulating audio.

Sampling, associating a specific sound effect with a particular action.

Modifying effects chains using audio effects like reverb, gain, and delay.

Incorporating background music and musical stings.

Collaboration with directors, producers, and project leaders to understand the desired tone.

Leading a sound design team, which may include audio engineers, foley artists, and specialized roles.

While often associated with film and TV, sound design extends its reach to various mediums such as theater, advertising, podcasts, and even music. In video games, sound design plays a crucial role in creating immersive experiences, providing unique sounds for each element within the game.

Difference Between a Sound Designer and a Sound Engineer

Although these terms are often used interchangeably, there's a distinction. Sound engineering primarily focuses on the recording and mixing of live sound, whereas sound design involves a broader scope, often including mixing. However, there's significant overlap, and a sound engineer can contribute to a production's sound design.

Understanding sound design involves breaking it down into six key elements:

Music: Contributes to the overall vibe of the content, enhancing the thematic experience.

Voiceover: Provides context through pre-recorded narration, balancing with other sound elements.

Foley Sounds: Mimic real-life audio to add authenticity, although less common today due to available sound effects.

Sound Effects: Overdub or emphasize transitions, credit rolls, or tone changes.

Ambiance: Sets the desired setting with background sounds, enveloping the audience in the created world.

Microphones: Proper microphone placement and levels contribute significantly to overall sound design.

Crafting a cohesive and effective soundscape requires a nuanced understanding of audio. While it's possible to learn sound design independently, professionals often dedicate their careers to mastering this intricate craft.

Peter Strickland's Work: Known for his emphasis on sound, Strickland's films, like "Berberian Sound Studio," showcase the importance of sound in storytelling.

Gravity (2013): Sound designer Glenn Freemantle's work in creating a terrifyingly immersive experience in space.

Amadeus (1984): Academy Award-winning sound design that complements the semi-fictionalized retelling of Mozart's life.

Elden Ring (2022): Immersive sound design in the open-world fantasy game, enhancing the gaming experience.

Now equipped with the basics of sound design, it's time to dive in and start creating. Raft Music offers albums of sound FX to help you create the perfect soundtrack for your content. Sign up to our newsletter to discover a world of sound design.

Jump cuts, a polarizing filmmaking technique, have sparked debates and discussions in the creative realm. Let's unravel the mysteries surrounding jump cuts, exploring their origins, applications, and the art of making them work.

A jump cut is a filmmaking technique where a sequential shot is abruptly cut into two parts, creating a noticeable and sometimes jarring transition.

Temporal Jump Cut: Film one continuous shot and slice it in post-production, removing a portion to create the cut.

Spatial Jump Cut: Film the first half, then record the second part separately, commonly used for transformations or sequential actions.

Jump cuts serve various purposes in filmmaking:

Emphasis: Used to emphasize a point in advertisements or marketing promos, adding urgency to the message.

Humor: Well-placed jump cuts in talking head interviews or mockumentaries can inject humor by removing filler words and condensing speech.

Time Passage: Signifies the passing of time, showing changes or developments in a concise manner.

Georges Méliès, a pioneer in filmmaking, is credited with popularizing jump cuts. His imaginative use of this technique, creating impossible scenes, set the stage for the evolution of cinema.

Yes, YouTubers and creators across social media platforms frequently use jump cuts. This style choice has become almost mandatory, allowing for faster delivery, removal of filler words, and creating a more direct viewing experience.

The perception of jump cuts varies. While they can be effective for humor and emphasis, many filmmakers criticize them for deviating from continuity editing. Jump cuts draw attention to the constructed and edited nature of the film, breaking the fourth wall and exposing the artificiality of the visual narrative.

Jump cuts can induce laughter due to the contrast created during the transition. The buildup in one shot followed by a sudden, contrasting moment in the next shot can serve as a shortcut to a punchline, especially when the subject remains the same.

To make jump cuts look polished, follow these editing tips:

Cut Dead Air: Remove all unnecessary pauses and dead air in your timeline, using the audio waveform as a guide.

Trim Cuts Precisely: Zoom into the timeline, trim the cuts meticulously, and ensure a balanced transition.

Avoid Over-Cutting: Don't cut too fine; maintain a natural rhythm in your footage.

Strategic Use: Be selective in using jump cuts; avoid overusing them to prevent audience fatigue.

Capture More Footage: Follow the 10x rule, capturing ten times the amount of footage you plan to use.

B-roll and Alternate Angles: Shoot additional footage, especially for static scenes, ensuring flexibility during editing.

Zooming Techniques: Apply zoom effects in post-production to smooth transitions and reduce the jump cut effect.

Utilize Editing Features: Explore editing software features like DaVinci Resolve's 'Smooth Cut' to seamlessly link similar shots.

The Haunted Castle (1896): Georges Méliès uses jump cuts to create magical and impossible scenes.

Little Shop Of Horrors (1986): Jump cuts signify the passage of time in a comedic glimpse into characters' lives.

Anthony Fantano's Reviews: Internet music critic Anthony Fantano humorously overuses jump cuts for comedic effect.

Whether you love or hate them, jump cuts are a crucial aspect of filmmaking. Enhance your creative work with our catalog of tracks, ensuring your soundtrack complements your visual narrative seamlessly.

Decoding Jump Cuts: A Filmmaker's Guide

In the dynamic realm of production music, where melodies set the stage for visual storytelling, understanding the nuanced landscape of copyright is akin to fine-tuning an instrument before a grand performance. At Raft Music, we recognize the paramount importance of navigating this intricate terrain to ensure both creators and users can harmoniously coexist.

The Foundation: Copyright in Production Music

Copyright serves as the bedrock upon which the industry thrives. It is a legal concept that grants exclusive rights to the original creators of musical works, protecting their intellectual property. For our community of talented artists, copyright is not merely a legal necessity but a validation of their creative endeavors.

In the realm of production music, composers and musicians retain the right to control how their music is used, reproduced, and distributed. This ownership empowers them to receive recognition and compensation for their work, fostering a sustainable environment for creativity to flourish.

Licensing agreements are the backbone of copyright in production music, providing the framework for how music is used in various media. Two key types of licenses govern this relationship:

These licenses grant permission to synchronize music with visual content. For example, when a filmmaker wants to use a specific piece of music in a movie or a television show, a synchronization license is required. This ensures that the music enhances and complements the visual narrative.

Performance licenses regulate the public performance of music. This is crucial for scenarios such as music played on radio stations, in public spaces, or during live events. It ensures that composers receive compensation when their music reaches a broader audience.

Understanding the distinctions between these licenses is vital for both creators and users.

Royalties are the financial compensation that composers and musicians receive for the use of their music. The world of production music features various royalty structures, each serving a specific purpose:

These royalties are generated from the reproduction and distribution of music, such as when a piece is sold on a CD or downloaded digitally. We ensure that composers receive their fair share of mechanical royalties for the distribution of their work.

Performance royalties are earned when music is performed in public, whether through live performances, radio broadcasts, or streaming services. We actively monitor and collect performance royalties on behalf of our artists, ensuring they are compensated for the widespread use of their creations.

Composers earn synchronization royalties when their music is synchronized with visual content. We facilitate this process by managing licensing agreements and ensuring that creators are appropriately compensated for the visual impact of their music.

Understanding these diverse royalty structures is crucial for artists looking to navigate the complex landscape of production music. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of production music, navigating copyright is not just a legal necessity but a collaborative effort to foster a thriving community. At Raft Music, we believe that by demystifying copyright, we empower creators and users alike to contribute to the the use of music in visual storytelling responsibly and ethically.

Raft Music is not just a platform; we're a partner in your creative journey, ensuring that the melodies you choose are not just beautiful but legally and ethically sound.

Navigating Copyright in the World of Production Music

Reality TV is mass entertainment and music plays a big part in the tone and mood of each scene. Choosing the right songs from a produced soundtrack can make or break a reality show. Therefore, it is important to choose songs that enhance the audience’s overall viewing experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore tips and tricks for choosing the best soundtrack for your reality show.

First, it is important to understand the topic and tone of the programme. Is it a happy and fun show? Or more dramatic and intense action? The theme and tone of the show will determine the type of music used. If your show is upbeat, you should choose upbeat songs. If your performance is more dramatic, you should choose songs that are more emotional and powerful.

Next, consider the speed of your presentation. Every scene in a reality show has its own rhythm, and the music you choose should reflect that. If you have a fast and action-packed scene, you should choose a song that is fast and upbeat.

Another important aspect of the is lyrics. Instrumental tracks can be used in any scene, while songs with lyrics are more specific. For example, if your show is about dating, you can use songs with lyrics about love and relationships. If your show is a cooking competition, consider using songs with lyrics that reflect cooking and food themes.

It is also important to consider the length of the sequence. Some scenes may be shorter than others and you should choose a song that matches the length of the scene. Some scenes also require the use of multiple tracks as the scene progresses and the mood changes.

Another important thing to consider is your music budget. It’s important to work with a music provider that offers a wide variety of options to fit your budget.

Finally, it is important to consider legal requirements when using production music. Make sure you have the correct license for the songs you use in your performance. This includes making sure the songs you use are properly licensed for use in the TV show and are allowed in the region where the show airs.

Selecting the best soundtrack for a reality show requires careful consideration of the theme and tone of the show, the pace of each scene, lyrics, song length, budget and regulatory compliance. The right music can take a reality show to new heights, giving viewers a more immersive experience. As a 

, we understand the importance of choosing the right music for your production and would love to help you choose the perfect song for your reality show.

Mastering the Art of Music Selection for Reality TV Shows

There are several places where you can get music for your film:

Royalty-free music libraries: These are websites that offer music tracks for a one-time fee. The music can be used as many times as you want, as long as you pay the fee.

Production music libraries: Companies like 

 specialise in creating music for film and video projects.

Original music: If you have the budget, you can also commission a composer to create original music specifically for your film.

The type of music you can use in your film will depend on your budget, the rights and licensing, and the feel you want to create. Here are some options:

Royalty-free music: This type of music can be used as many times as you want, as long as you pay the fee.

Copyrighted music: You can use this type of music if you obtain permission from the copyright owner. This is often the case for popular songs and production music. It’s often always easier to license production music as it’s pre-cleared for broadcast use.

Original music: This is music that is created specifically for your film.

What are good background songs for videos?

It depends on the tone of your video. If you’re creating a fast-paced montage, you might want to choose an upbeat pop song. If you’re creating a more emotional video, you might want to choose a ballad. Some other factors to consider are the length of the song and the mood you’re trying to set.

What two types of music are most often used in film?

The two types of music most often used in film are:

Background music: This type of music is used to enhance the mood or atmosphere of a scene.

Theme music: This type of music is used to define the main character or the film itself.

Can I use copyrighted music if I give credit?

No, you cannot use copyrighted music simply by giving credit. You must obtain permission from the copyright owner or have a license to use the music.

Choosing the right music for your film can make all the difference. By understanding the different options and how to legally use music, you’ll be well on your way to creating a great soundtrack for your next film.

Music for Film Makers

Library music is a type of music that is specifically made for use in movies, television shows, commercials andvideo games. The history of library music can be traced back to the early days of the motion picture industry and the need for a more cost-effective solution for incorporating music into visual media.

When film production began, music was not a crucial component of the movie-going experience. Silent films were often accompanied by live music, usually played by a pianist. However, as the industry grew, so did the need for an efficient method for incorporating music into films. This led to the creation of music libraries, which provided pre-recorded music that could be used in place of live performers.

The music explosion of the 20s quickly led to a bevy of production music libraries, such as UK company, De Wolfe. De Wolfe’s music library consisted of a collection of classical pieces, folk songs, and original pieces that could be used in films and other media. The library became popular among filmmakers, who appreciated it’s convenience and cost-effectiveness.

In the United States, the first of its kind was established in the 1930s by the Capitol Records label. Capitol’s library was similar to that of De Wolfe’s. Over time, other record labels and musical publishing companies followed suit. They created their own libraries which expanded the range of music that was available for use in film and other media.

One of the key benefits of production music is that it is often much cheaper than commissioning original music. This made it possible for media producers to incorporate music into their projects without breaking the budget. In addition, production music libraries offered a wide variety of genres, making it possible for filmmakers to find the perfect music to fit their needs.

Production music was initially used in television and films in the 1950s and 1960s. As more films and shows used music in this manner, the demand for production music increased, leading to a creation of many new production music libraries. During this growth period, many major record labels and music publishers established their own production music divisions, offering a large range of music.

With the advent of new technologies, the production music industry has continued to evolve. Today, production music is used in a wide variety of media, including commercials, video games, and social media. In addition, the internet has made it possible for production music to be distributed and used by producers all over the world.

 is now used in a wide range of media and can be distributed and used all over the world. With a massive collection of music to choose from and the option for custom music, media producers can incorporate the perfect music into their projects at a lower cost.

 if you want to know more about how production music can help your projects.

Exploring the Fascinating History of Production Music

The music industry is changing rapidly as artificial intelligence (AI) enters 

. Artificial intelligence has changed the way music is composed, curated and consumed in film, television and advertising. AI-powered platforms can now create custom backing tracks based on specific parameters like genre, tempo and length, making the process cheaper and more efficient.

AI has also changed the way original scores are created for media. AI-powered music composers use deep learning algorithms to create original music in a variety of styles. With a vast library of classical music to learn from, they have already been used to score short films, indicating its potential to disrupt music composition for media.

There are concerns about the benefits of artificial intelligence in music for media, its effects on the ndustry and creative expression. Fears that the use of artificial intelligence in music making could lead to the loss of jobs for musicians and composers are not unfounded. In addition, some worry that AI-produced music may lack the emotional depth and nuance of human-made music. However, it is important to understand that artificial intelligence is not intended to replace human creativity, but rather to augment it. Artificial intelligence can be used to create musicians and composers and test new ideas and approaches. The use of AI-produced music in movies and TV shows can also create new sources of income for musicians and composers.

AI is changing the way music is created, curated and consumed in media. With the help of artificial intelligence technology, it is possible to quickly and cheaply create background music and compose original songs in different styles. Although there are concerns about the effects of AI on the music industry and creative expression, AI can be seen as a complement to human creativity, not a replacement for it.

The Rise of AI in Music for Media

Bectu is a union that represents workers in the entertainment and broadcasting industry who work in non-performing roles such as live events, broadcasting, film and cinema, digital media, independent production, leisure, IT and telecoms, theatre and the arts. Bectu is committed to ensuring that its members are treated fairly and has been involved in a series of ongoing campaigns to make the entertainment industry more fulfilling and rewarding for its workers.

Bectu provides a safety net for technicians and other non-performing workers on artistic productions who can be vulnerable to exploitation, bullying and poor working conditions. Bectu also campaigns to make the creative workplace more tolerant and inclusive, ensure that minimum rates, reasonable working hours, facilities and health and safety improvements are provided in the live events sector, encourage diversity in the workforce and tackle bullying. The union is also involved in campaigns to reduce the number of hours worked by technicians and make the entertainment industry more eco-friendly.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Bectu was part of the One Voice Campaign, which lobbied the government to open up theatres and provided an action plan regarding safe seating, distancing, hygiene and tackling airborne spread. The campaign also asked for financial help for the mainly freelance workforce who kept the entertainment industry going. Although initially faced with challenges, the campaign eventually succeeded and productions started opening up again.

Bectu uses the strength of many workers to balance and challenge the financial clout of the industry. It raises money from membership subscriptions and other fundraising activities, which is used to organize itself, pay legal fees and offer financial support to members who need it. Bectu can also launch legal action or, in extreme cases, ask its members to withdraw their labour in a strike to resolve disputes with employers.

How Bectu Supports Workers in the Entertainment Industry

The use of library music in TV shows can add an extra layer of emotion and depth to a scene, without the cost and time of commissioning a custom score. Library music, also known as production music, is pre-recorded music that can be licensed for use in various types of media such as films, TV shows, and commercials.

One advantage of using library music in TV shows is the cost-effectiveness. Commissioning a custom score for a TV show can be costly and time-consuming, whereas licensing pre-recorded music can save a production budget and time.

Another advantage is the variety of options available. A music library typically has a wide range of music genres and styles, making it easier to find the perfect track to fit the mood and tone of a scene. This can also allow for more creative freedom in the scoring process.

Additionally, using library music can also save time in post-production. With pre-recorded music, the music can be selected and licensed before filming even begins, allowing for a smooth integration of music and picture during post-production.

Blogs

Unlocking the Power of ASMR: A Guide to Seamless Integration in Your Content

Unmissable Tech and Advertising Events in 2024

Demystifying Sound Design: A Comprehensive Guide

Decoding Jump Cuts: A Filmmaker's Guide

Navigating Copyright in the World of Production Music

Mastering the Art of Music Selection for Reality TV Shows

Music for Film Makers

Exploring the Fascinating History of Production Music

The Rise of AI in Music for Media

The Rise of AI in Music for Media

How Bectu Supports Workers in the Entertainment Industry

Unlocking the Potential of Library Music in TV Shows