In an era where brands compete for attention across multiple touchpoints, sound has emerged as a powerful tool for emotional connection and brand recognition. From personalized audio experiences to immersive soundscapes, sonic branding is evolving beyond traditional jingles and logos—now shaping entire brand identities. As technology advances, brands are leveraging AI, AR, and data-driven personalization to craft unique sound experiences that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. So, what are the key sonic branding trends shaping 2025? Let’s explore how sound redefines brand storytelling and engagement in the year ahead.
Russell Boiarsky, the Director of Brand Strategy for Stephen Arnold Music (SAM) in the article in Shoot Online “The State of Sonic 2025: Sonic Branding Trends From Stephen Arnold Music” – breaks down five sonic branding trends to keep your eye (er… ear) on this year. Sonic branding seems to be a topic for large companies and corporations. However, the article suggests smaller businesses benefit from it.
There are 5 sonic branding trends:
Sonic Invasion
Brands are expanding their use of sound to enhance storytelling across multiple touchpoints. The rise of sensory branding continues in 2025, with audio playing a key role alongside visuals, touch, and even scent.
From sonic logos to campaign melodies and app sound cues, brands build diverse audio assets to create deeper emotional connections. Now is the time to consider how your brand’s sound adapts across different platforms.
Personalized Audio Experiences
Brands use AI and data analytics to tailor soundscapes to individual preferences, making audio more engaging and emotionally resonant.
Companies like Chase and Dunkin’ personalize ads based on user activity, while Spotify’s DJ X curates playlists based on listening history. With targeted sonic branding, brands can connect with audiences in real time like never before.
Immersive Sound
Advancements in visual and audio tech—AR, VR, and spatial audio—are transforming brand experiences, sports events, and entertainment.
From Nike’s retail innovation to Netflix House and Super Nintendo World, brands use rich soundscapes to deepen engagement. To stand out, immersive audio must enhance storytelling and evoke emotion.
Authentic & Unrefined
As AI personalizes sound, brands embrace raw, human-driven music to build trust.
Sports brands like TGL Golf and the Dallas Mavs are blending hype anthems with real instruments, proving that authenticity adds emotional depth. In 2025, the human touch in music will be key to brand credibility.
Sonic Branding for Small Businesses
Sonic branding isn’t just for big brands—smaller businesses leverage sound to stand out.
From local coffee shops to e-commerce startups, many start with sonic logos, short brand anthems, or audio style guides. With lower barriers to entry, 2025 is the perfect time for small brands to make some noise.
We highly recommend reading this article, as it covers the fascinating topic of sonic branding in great detail. Follow the link to read the full version of the article in Shoot Online here.
