Famous Sounds That Have Received a Trademark

When we think of trademarks, we often envision logos, brand names, or distinctive product packaging. However, in the world of intellectual property law, there’s a lesser-known but equally fascinating category: sound trademarks. These trademarks protect unique sounds that are associated with a specific brand or product, helping businesses safeguard their auditory identity in a world dominated by visual cues. In this blog post, we’ll explore some famous examples of sound trademarks that have made their mark—and why they’re an essential part of brand protection.

1. Harley-Davidson's Revving Engine

A great example of a famous sound trademark comes from the roaring engine of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The distinctive growl of the bike’s engine is not just a sign of its mechanical power—it’s also a sound that is deeply linked with Harley-Davidson’s rugged, rebellious brand identity.

Harley-Davidson received a trademark for the sound of its motorcycle engine in 1994. The sound represents the freedom and adventure that the brand promises, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond the visual aspects of the product. Whether heard on the open road or in promotional videos, the iconic rev of a Harley engine is instantly recognizable.

2.  The MGM Lion Roar

The mighty roar of the MGM lion is another sound that has been trademarked. First used in 1928, this sound became synonymous with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer films and has been an integral part of their logo for decades. The iconic sound is played at the beginning of many MGM movies, and its association with high-quality entertainment has made it a powerful auditory identifier for the studio.

While the roar itself is not a complex sound in terms of length or melody, it serves as an unmistakable marker of the brand’s presence. MGM’s lion roar sound trademark was granted in 1980, and it continues to be a vital part of the studio's audiovisual branding.

3.  The NBC Chimes

One of the most recognizable sound trademarks in the world is the NBC chimes. These three notes—played on a glockenspiel—have been synonymous with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) since 1929. The sound is so iconic that it is instantly associated with the network, signaling the beginning of a broadcast, and even calling viewers to attention when it plays during transitions. NBC’s use of the chimes is a prime example of how a sound can become an inseparable part of a brand’s identity.

In 1950, NBC received a trademark for the chimes, making it one of the earliest examples of a sound trademark. Since then, the chimes have been adapted and updated, but the distinctive three-note sequence remains a symbol of NBC’s legacy in American television.

4.  Intel's "Bong" Jingle

Intel’s four-note “bong” sound is another classic example of a successful sound trademark. The jingle, created in the 1990s, became part of Intel’s broader “Intel Inside” campaign, which helped solidify the company’s identity as a leader in microprocessor technology. The distinctive "bong" sound is now universally recognized by consumers, and its trademark status helps Intel protect its brand in the competitive tech industry.

This sound is particularly powerful because it works as both a standalone brand identifier and an integral part of Intel’s overall advertising strategy. The sound is simple but incredibly effective, and it can be heard in various contexts, from TV commercials to product launches and even embedded in consumer electronics.

5.  Apple's Start-Up Chime

Apple is known for its sleek, user-friendly products, and its start-up chime has become just as iconic as its hardware and software designs. This simple, melodic sound plays when an Apple computer powers up, providing an auditory cue that users are about to interact with their beloved devices.

Though Apple’s start-up chime is no longer as prominent in newer Mac models (with the latest iterations lacking the sound altogether), the chime remains a hallmark of Apple's identity. Apple received a trademark for its start-up sound in 2010, reinforcing its importance as part of the company’s broader user experience and brand identity.

6.  The Yahoo! "Yodel"

The Yahoo! “yodel,” a high-pitched vocalization that quickly became associated with the online search engine, was a quirky and playful sound that helped solidify Yahoo!’s place in the internet age. Introduced in the 1990s, the sound was used in TV and radio ads, as well as in various promotional materials.

The "yodel" wasn’t just a fun sound; it was a highly effective branding tool, helping Yahoo! stand out in a competitive market and fostering recognition through its distinctiveness. Although the Yahoo! "yodel" has since been phased out, its legacy as a trademarked sound is a testament to the power of sound in branding.

Here’s why sound trademarks matter:

• Brand Recognition: A unique sound can instantly identify a brand, even in the absence of visual cues. Think about the Intel jingle or the NBC chimes; these sounds are deeply ingrained in consumer consciousness.

• Consumer Experience: A sound can enhance the overall user experience, adding an auditory layer to a brand’s visual and tactile identity. For example, the Apple start-up chime helps create a sense of anticipation and satisfaction.

• Legal Protection: A registered sound trademark offers legal protection, allowing brands to prevent competitors from using similar sounds that could confuse consumers or dilute the brand’s identity.

• Emotional Impact: Certain sounds have the power to evoke emotions. Whether it’s the thrill of a Harley-Davidson engine revving or the nostalgic warmth of the NBC chimes, sound can create a deep emotional connection with a brand.

Conclusion

In today’s competitive marketplace, sound is an essential part of a brand’s identity. From the jingles that make us tap our feet to the iconic sounds that trigger instant recognition, sound trademarks protect the unique auditory elements that help a brand stand out.

If you believe your brand has a sound that is distinctive enough to function as a trademark, it may be worth exploring how you can protect it legally. A sound trademark can enhance your brand’s recognition and offer valuable protection, ensuring that your unique auditory identity stays in your control.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the value of a memorable sound is likely to grow. Whether it's a chime, a jingle, or the roar of a motorcycle engine, sound is becoming an increasingly important asset in the branding world. If you have a sound you think could stand out, consult a trademark attorney to learn more about protecting your brand’s most audible asset.