5 Things to Think About When Creating Podcast Intro Music

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

Firstly, what is podcast intro music? Well, it’s the music that plays at the start of your podcast that acts as the introduction to your show. It’s how your podcast opens up and can be where you may want to introduce yourself and the show to your audience or it’s the little jingle that plays before you start talking.

As a jingles composer (check out some of my jingles), I often get asked to create podcast intro music and outro music for different shows, which includes podcasts, web-series, videos, TV shows and more. It’s important to think about what kind of music you want for your intro because it is usually in those first few seconds of a podcast, that people decide whether or not to continue listening or not.

So here are a few things that you may want to consider when deciding on your podcast intro music in order to make sure you make a great first impression:

1. What style of music do you want?

There are many different kinds of music and so one of the things to try and get clearer about is what sort of sounds and style would represent you and your show best.

Do you want instrumental music or do you want some singing and lyrics in the intro? Are there certain instruments that you really love the sound of, or do you want electronic sounds or some other kind of music?

2. What might your listeners like to hear?

Who will be listening to your podcast or who would you like to attract to your show? Is there a certain kind of music that might work well for them and that they would enjoy listening to? Ask your target audience and get a feel for what might be good.

Do you run a gaming podcast for example? If so, perhaps some game music would work best to represent you and the show e.g. several gaming channels that I’ve created intros for have gone for an 8-bit / chip-tune style intro to give a retro-gaming vibe to their show. These seem to work really well and get people excited and hyped up about the podcast.

3. What kind of mood do you want your podcast intro to set?

I’ve just mentioned that for some of the intros I’ve done, they were about hyping people up and putting people in a good mood for the rest of the show. Is this the kind of mood you want for the show or would something else work better?

Think about what your podcast is about, the type of content and topics that you cover and from that determine what sort of mood you want people to be in when they listen to your podcast.

If you’re podcast is all about de-stressing, yoga or meditation for example, then the music for your podcast intro may want to be calming. Otherwise many tend to want to set people in a good mood but still figure out what this means for you e.g. do you want people to simply feel happy, or inspired, excited, uplifted, ready-for-action or something else?

4. Decide how long you want your intro to be

How long are your overall podcast episodes and how long should your intro be? Most of the podcast intros I’ve done have been between 30-60 seconds. Some are shorter e.g. 15 seconds and other shows have longer theme tunes.

Think about how long you feel is long enough to grab people’s attention and get them hooked into your show, however, I’d recommend keeping it fairly short and sweet to maintain that interest.

5. How do you want your intro to start and end?

This may sound like an odd question but can be quite important in the development of your podcast intro music. Do you want the intro music to gradually build up, or to start with a bang, or maybe end with a bang? Or, would it work better to maintain the same feeling, mood and pace throughout?

These are all hopefully useful questions to think about in order to ensure that you are making the most out of your podcast intro music.   

Want some help with your podcast intro music?

It'll be great to learn more about your podcast and to work on the intro music for your show. Contact me now and let's talk! Let's see what we can do together! OR explore my music catalogue for a variety of ready-to-use royalty free jingles (intros and outros) created especially with gaming channels and podcasts in mind.

What to read next: How to Create An Effective Podcast Intro or Jingle

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About the Author:

Ninichi is a freelance jingles composer, game music composer and film music composer. She has created theme tunes, intros and outros for various adverts, podcasts and shows, as well as composing original soundtracks to different indie games and films. Learn more about Ninichi here.

If you need help with music, contact her now to discuss your project and music needs.

Introducing the 'Let's Play' Gaming Channel: NoShoesGaming

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

As a game music composer (see my stuff!), I work on the soundtracks to various indie games. However, I also get the opportunity (when I'm lucky!) to work with some amazing gamers and YouTubers too. The two guys that run the Let's Play channel - NoShoesGaming are certainly two folks to take notice of and that I really enjoyed creating some music for! They offer a fun-to-watch show on YouTube and here's my interview with them to help you get to know them better...

Who is NoShoesGaming?

'Well, "No Shoes", isn't so much one person, it's more along the lines of a crew of people. Our crew consists currently of 2 friends, Jake n' Josh, to combat the evil forces of boredom by making fools of ourselves in a hopeful, humerous way.'

Where did the Idea come from?

'When you come home from a long day of school, work, running errands, What is the first thing you do? You take off your shoes. The moment you take off your shoes you immediately start the process of relaxing and that is the reason behind the name. When you see the notification that a new "NoShoes episode is out" We want the subliminal thought of "time to relax with the crew" to go through your head.'

What are your plans for the show? 

'As of right now we are actually about to start a segment where we feature art from artists who could use a little help getting the word about their talent out. Here's the crazy part about that, it's absolutely free. All you need to do is ask us! Feel free to ask email us at "noshoesgaming@gmail.com" and/or our twitter @noshoesgaming we'll be more than happy to talk to you!

We would also like to do more livestreams that way our viewers can get a chance to interact with us, but this one is still a work in progress because its a hassle to set everything to livestream and then back to regular recording.'

Why did you start 'No Shoes'?

'For the sake of having people enjoy watching us doing things we enjoy doing. A dream, if one would say so. But a dream that we hope will flourish into a reality. Is it the best show? No. Is it on the level of higher Content Creators such as GameGrumps or Markiplier for example? Far from it. But "ooh wee!" do we enjoy trying!'

What sorts of games do you play?

'We try not stick to only a specific genre by only a certain company. We'll play any game that we feel like playing. But you expect to see more of Nintendo when we don't know what to play.'

What else should we expect?

'Guys making fools of themselves, telling tales of days long past, longing for the joy we can bring to the viewer.'

Ok great! It sounds super fun! Now let's talk about the music. What role does music play in your show?

'You know that's a really good question. For a while we were using basic default studio music, then we decided on having our own personal music! And when we announced that we were looming for a partner to help us out that was when you swooped in and saved the day! Let us say this, if you aren't working with Ninichi, you need to fix that. She was super sweet and patient and will make stars burst in your eyes when you finally hear your music from her.

We also plan on (waaay into the future) composing tiny little tunes to play in the background of episodes...maybe.'

That sounds awesome! Here's the intro & outro jingles for those wanting to get in the mood!

(Check out my intros & jingles section if you want to hear some other jingles and/or get some help with your own)

Why should we tune in?

'Another great question, Ninichi! To be honest, you have to WANT to watch our show. We can't sit here and tell you why you should, its something you have to want to do. However, if you do enjoy seeing new faces in the "Let's Play" community then we would like to think that you will enjoy watching us. We've been compared to being like a "Jon and Arin", back when Jon was still on GameGrumps, dynamic. So if you really enjoyed that duo, we like to imagine you'll enjoy us!'

Amazing! Who wouldn't want to check it out? :-) So, what plans do you have for the show down the road?

'Honestly it's hard to pinpoint which direction the show is going to go, we have so many ideas its crazy. But honestly, we think its best not to look too far ahead, just enjoy what we have now and work on making it better each episode!

Thank you so much for letting us be a part of your article Ninichi and thank you to everyone who has decided to stop by and watch our show. You guys are the reason we continue to make it, we love you all so much!

*Even though these art pieces are for us. We would still like to give credit to Haru__Kitsu for creating these for us. Please note these are by Haru__Kitsu*

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About the author: Ninichi is a freelance composer and create music for games, films & media. She has created many memorable jingles for various shows, soundtracks for a variety of indie games and films & more. Learn more about Ninichi and contact her to explore working with her.

Follow her @ninichimusic

Introducing the Podcast & Show: The Signal42

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

I was excited to get to know Mike a little while ago, whilst working on the podcast intro to his new show The Signal42. He was looking for a jingles music composer to work with to create a catchy jingle for his new show, and I was lucky to connect with him and to get working on it (see more of what I do!). As we worked together I discovered that The Signal42 is a wonderful podcast which explores a variety of life-related topics and it has a little something for everyone, which is why I'm delighted to share with you a little interview that I did with Mike to give us a bit more insight into the man behind the show!...

Who are you? Please introduce yourself and your show to us!

'My name is Mike or I am known as The Signal42 as well. I am just a normal guy that wanted to talk about the things I love in life. I enjoy the show a lot and the people I meet because of it.'

What's your channel about and what sorts of things do you cover? 

'My channel is about embracing the loves of your life. Embrace your obsessions. I talk about such things as comics, movies, video games, cosplay, and music. It is stuff that interests me and I try to share that stuff with people.' 

Ok great. Are you able to tell us who you think your show is for or perhaps what sorts of things we should watch out for on it?

'Well I started it for myself really but I guess it is for anyone that shares in my interests. People have diverse interests and I want my show to cover that stuff.'

What's the plan for your YouTube channel and how is it all going? 

'Well the plan is to grow the show as much as possible and have fun while doing it. So far it is going well and each episode has been a blast to record.' 

What do you think of the music for your show and what was it like - us working together on your podcast intros? 

'Music is very important to me. My intro I believe helps convey the attitude I want for the show. 

Working with you Ninichi, was awesome. You really cared about my music and was very quick with responses. My intro that I have now is one that I don’t think I could ever replace. It is now a staple of my show.'

Thanks so much for your thoughts Mike. It was awesome working with you too! Here's a little peak at the podcast intro to get us in the mood for your show!

(Check out my intros & jingles section if you want to hear some other jingles and/or get some help with your own)

Is there anything else you want to share with us or tell us about?

'Honestly not that I can think of. I just hope people try the show and like it. They are more than welcome to message me as well on twitter or Instagram.

Here's how to stay connected to Mike and his show The Signal42:

https://shows.pippa.io/thesignal42show is my show page and I am available on most platforms now. https://twitter.com/The_Signal42 is my twitter and https://www.instagram.com/thesignal42/ is my Instagram.

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About the author: Ninichi is a freelance composer for games, film & media. She creates music in various styles and has created jingles / podcast intros / outros and theme tunes for many different shows as well as soundtracks for a variety of indie games and films.  Explore her recent jingle examples & contact Ninichi to commission her now.

Follow her @ninichimusic

Introducing Art & Gaming YouTube Channel: PennyBowtie

By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

Earlier on this year I connected with Noelle Vestal, an enthusiastic gamer and talented artist who runs YouTube channel PennyBowtie. I was asked to create the outro jingle for this awesome channel and wanted to share it with you! I'm excited to be have had this interview with Noelle which offers you a little bit more information on what the YouTube channel is about, so let's get to know the person behind PennyBowtie...

Why have you decided to create a YouTube channel?

'To be honest it started out as a bit of a rebellious act toward a few family members because they think gaming is a waste of money. After a few months in I had started to go through some tough times, like my mother had passed away, and we had fought for my siblings custody with his biological father. It all happened so fast, and it was really rough but when I started to make videos and stream, even if it was just one or two people watching, it felt really good to know that people were interested in what I was doing. And even better it wasn't because of the game I was playing, or some fandom, They were there because they just wanted to relax and chill. It wasn't forced or 'sub 4 sub'. They were just there. I'm a people pleaser so it's nice to see others are having a good time :)'

Wow what a story! Thanks for sharing that. So, who would you say your YouTube channel is for?

'My channel is generally for everyone, but I did originally wanted it to be more kid friendly, until I realized most of my content started out with horror. So now it's more PG13 or T for Teen. But that's mostly for the games. As for the Speedpaints and the few songs/song covers I've uploaded.'

What sorts of content do you and will you be sharing?

'I really enjoy art and gaming, so that's what I've decided to upload. I particularly like the older games then the new ones that have been coming out. It seems to bring out more of a nostalgic feeling to watch someone play something older.'

How long has it been going for?

'Uhhh, I need to check that lol. And my channel says I've been at this for about 2 years. I feel old lol.'

How important is music to your videos (i.e. the intro / outro / background music etc)?

'I think music is a huge part of my videos, especially since I'm a mediocre gamer, so there's a whole lot of bloopers I manage to squeeze out of recordings. I just want my audience to feel happy, and have a place to chill and relax.'

It was great fun working on the outro for PennyBowtie. How was it for you :-p?

'I thought working with you was a good experience. You were very patient with me and honest. I can tell you're pretty passionate about what you do, so a 10/10 for me :)'

How very kind! Here's the outro, have a listen folks!

(Check out my intros & jingles section if you want to hear some other jingles and/or get some help with your own)

What's the plan for your YouTube Channel?

'I think a big part of my channel that I want to plan later on when my channel has more attention is giveaways and charities. It's originally what I was thinking. I also want to be one of the few, (or the only?) Let's player who will play with random people, or other channels who are just starting out.'

How can we help you with everything?

'The amount of subscribers doesn't matter to me. (I sound so cheesy!). So long as there's at least one person who cares I'll keep going. I currently only have 137 subscribers. I originally thought I would only have 50 around this time. So I can't really complain.'

Is there anything else that we should watch out for? 

'I might be considering a new channel that's nothing but crafts that can be used everyday. Stuff like nerdy anime pins, clay figurines, and top hats. There will be many D.I.Y Top hats.'

That sounds different! We'll definitely be keeping an eye on you and what you get on up to YouTube. Where else can we find out more?

'I do art and other random stuff on twitter and Deviantart.

My Art: https://pennybowtie.deviantart.com/

My Twitter: https://twitter.com/PennyBowtie'

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About the author: Ninichi is a freelance video game music composer and film music composer. She creates music for video games, film and other media, and would be delighted to help you create the music for your game or project. 

Contact Ninichi to explore working with her now

Follow her @ninichimusic

Introducing the Gaming Channel: The Loading Crew

Interview By Ninichi | Contact | Follow

I'm delighted to be introducing everyone to The Loading Crew, this week. I was honoured to work on the intro music for this channel and to get to know the wonderful couple behind this channel. Here's my interview with them...

Who are you and where did The Loading Crew come from? 

'TheLoadingCrew is a husband and wife team made up of 2 independent artists. The husband Stuart is in charge of the YouTube channel and producing video content while the wife Alexandria produces the Web Comics Momma CQ, Jelly Realms Adventures, and the upcoming comic World View.'

What made you decide to set up this channel? 

'We actually had the channel open since 2009. We used to do competitive Yu-gi-oh! content but decided to rebrand as a tabletop channel in 2016 when we started uploading our Pathfinder/D&D videos he played with a few internet celebrity guest friends of ours.'

Tell us a bit about your channel and what sorts of things you cover?

'TheLoadingCrew produces mid to high quality Tabletop RPG games framed as a web series. We live stream long form Pathfinder and Dungeons and Dragons style games. After the live streams, we will take the footage and cut them down into 10-60 minute easy to consume episodes.

We do several things like clean up audio, add animations, and special music to enhance the viewing experience. As of right now, our most popular series are our Sands of Horren Pathfinder Campaign and our Pokemon Tabletop: Utopus Region Campaign series.'

What are your plans for your Youtube channel? 

'Currently, our Pathfinder, Sands of Horren series is over, while Pokemon is still going strong. Currently we are working on creating a new Pathfinder/Dungeons and Dragons like show in the next few upcoming months. This series will have a much high production quality than the other shows on the channel without a set schedule. Currently the project is still largely secret and in the early production stages but we are confident our audience will enjoy.'

Why should we watch it?

'As of right now, there are very few approachable and understandable tabletop shows on the internet. There are a few that are quite excellent and entertaining, but there are many whose barrier to entry are still reserved for fans of TTRPs. Our shows are designed that most people can enjoy it without any need to understand the game that they are based in.' 

Why did you decide to work with me (Ninichi) on the music? 

'I remember reaching out to you, Ninichi, when we dabbled in the Indy Game Scene for a while and when we were looking to commission a cover of a song for our channel in the past. I had heard of Ninichi's work through a few indy game groups and understood she did professional quality work very quickly. We were eager to work with her and her talents. The tune is quite good, we look forward to using it and we hope to do more with her in the future!'

Thanks so much for finding me and trusting me with the intro music to your wonderful channel! It was a real pleasure working with you on this, and here's the track (see above) for everyone to check out.

(Check out my intros & jingles section if you want to hear some other jingles and/or get some help with your own)

Now, hopefully everyone is excited to learn more, so here are some links where you can find out more about The Loading Crew:

• Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheLoadingCrew
• Discord ► https://discord.gg/smDTvrv
• Twitch ► https://www.twitch.tv/theloadingcrew
• Our Twitter ► https://twitter.com/loadingcrew
• Our Website ► http://www.loadingcrewcrafts.com/
• Our Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/TheLoadingCrew
• Alaina Prana's Tumblr: https://alainaprana.tumblr.com/

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About the author: Ninichi is a jingles composer, game music composer and film music composer. She has worked on a number of games and is a great supporter of indie developers and indie games. If you're looking for music that will help your game to stand out contact her now to discuss your game music needs.

Follow her @ninichimusic