It seems like Lo-Fi music is taking over the world these days. Not in a ‘rock n’ roll’ way, but in a much more subtle, calm way, where you hear it often, but may not seek it out actively. Lo-Fi music is an extension of hip hop, where producers aim to put listeners into a state of relaxation, using jazz-esque chord progressions and muted drum sounds, with no rapper or in-your-face vocals. This allows Lo-Fi to play the role of background music, but act as a kind of enhancer for the content it’s played alongside.
Lo-Fi has been found to actually reduce cortisol levels (stress hormones) in the brains of listeners, so makes a great addition for ads for anything from a spa, to a restaurant. The really great thing about Lo-Fi is that it’s not boring, but it doesn’t draw your attention too much, something marketers have struggled to find for many years. Speaking of which, audio branding is most definitely on the rise over the last decade, with more brands now paying attention to the power of background music.
What Makes Lo-Fi the Ultimate ‘Chill’ Genre for Marketing?
Lo-Fi is a great option for your marketing campaigns, for a plethora of reasons! Here are just a few:
- Non-instrusive – Lo-Fi won’t steal the spotlight, but it will make people feel good about your product or content!
- Trendy and popular – Lo-Fi has risen astronomically in popularity over the last 10-or-so years. People use it for studying and focusing worldwide, giving it an unbeatable appeal to modern audiences.
- Stress-reducing – This music will literally make your advert destress viewers, people! What’s not to love?
- Extended engagement – Lo-Fi might help viewers of an ad stick around just a few seconds longer, which, as we all know, makes a world of difference.
- Affordable customisation – Lo-fi is easy to customise, allowing brands to create unique soundscapes that match their identity.
- Abundance of producers – There are millions of producers capable in the ways of Lo-Fi, so hiring one won’t be a problem. You could even learn by yourself, using sample packs and garage-band!
- Low-Key branding – Subtle music creates a positive experience without feeling like an obvious marketing ploy.
- Mood booster – For many, Lo-Fi can invoke nostalgia and waves of positive emotions. This is an ideal addition to ads and content, for obvious reasons.
The Science of Chill – Why Lo-Fi Helps Viewers Stick Around
Let’s get a little scientific for a sec! Lo-Fi music’s slow, steady beats can actually lower cortisol levels – the body’s main stress hormone – creating a calm, focused vibe. Studies have shown that music like this can help reduce stress, keeping people relaxed and engaged longer.
Basically, lo-fi works wonders in marketing because it puts people in a ‘chill zone.’ Viewers stay tuned, feeling more comfortable and open to your message without even realising it. So, if you’ve ever felt a lo-fi beat lulling you into a sense of calm while watching an ad, you’re not alone – your brain loves it, and so will your audience!
Lo-Fi in Action – How Brands Are Using It for Engagement
Brands are tapping into Lo-Fi in all sorts of creative ways, using it to make their content feel relaxed and inviting. In explainer videos and product demos, Lo-Fi keeps viewers focused without the intensity of high-energy music, letting the product speak for itself. On websites, a subtle lo-fi track in the background can make visitors feel at ease as they explore, while on social media, lo-fi is the go-to sound for Instagram Reels and TikToks, setting a laid-back tone that’s catchy but never overwhelming. Even physical stores like coffee shops and boutiques are using Lo-Fi to create an inviting atmosphere that keeps customers around longer. Whether online or in-store, Lo-Fi music makes brands feel fresh, approachable, and effortlessly cool – exactly what audiences want.
Clearly, Lo-Fi leaves you spoilt for choice when it comes to adding music to an ad campaign or a piece of content. Why not consider using Lo-Fi for your work today?
