Music can be an overlooked tool for influencing customer behavior. Studies have shown that different types of music can impact how we feel and spend our money.
Choosing the right style of music could be important when it comes to marketing your product or setting the right atmosphere at your store.
Below are some tips on how to select the best music choice.
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Music Major Types
Different types of music take many forms, each creating its atmosphere and appeal. Genres like pop and rock dominate mainstream spaces with catchy hooks and electric energy.
Classical music offers rich, layered compositions, while jazz emphasizes improvisation and swing rhythms. Hip-hop brings storytelling and rhythm to the forefront, while EDM focuses on beats that make you move.
Folk keeps traditions alive with simple, heartfelt melodies, and country highlights stories of everyday life. Whether soothing or energizing, there’s a style for every mood or preference.
Different Types of Music: Use older music to target older customers and newer music to target younger customers
Most young people gravitate towards newer music, while older people are likelier to stick to the music they listened to in their youth. There are many exceptions, but it’s worth considering when marketing to specific age demographics.
Playing newer styles of music in ads or at your restaurant could help attract younger consumers, while a playlist of older music might be nostalgic and comforting to older consumers.
Use classical music to encourage sales of upmarket products
Classical music has long been associated with formality, sophistication, and wealth. For this reason, it is often used to help sell items that are high value – playing classical music in a perfume advert or a jewellery store can suggest expertise and high quality.
One study even found that classical music increased willingness to pay for products related to social identity. It suggests that classical music may help products seem more classy and encourage people to buy them to improve their status.
Use country music to sell practical products
The same study, interestingly, found that country music was effective at helping to sell utilitarian products like tools and homeware. This may be because country music has long been rooted in the working class, promoting honesty and simplicity.
This convinces customers that a product is for the everyman. It is amazing how different types of music can resonate with your customers.
Use slow music to relax customers and encourage them to stay longer
Slow music has long been associated with relaxation. It could be a perfect choice of music for calming people’s nerves in a dentist’s waiting room.
Spas and massage therapy clinics can particularly benefit from slow ambient music – you can find lots of royalty free meditation music for commercial use online suited to this purpose.
Studies have also found that slow music can encourage customers to take their time in a location. In a restaurant, such music may encourage customers to sit at their table longer and potentially order more drinks.
Use fast music to excite customers and make them impulse buy
Fast music increases the heart rate and gets people ready for action. It is, therefore, a better choice when you want to excite people and increase impulsivity – such as when advertising a motorsports event or a sale at your store.
Just be wary that while fast music may speed up customers’ decisions and increase impulse purchases, it could encourage customers to stay at your store or restaurant for less time.
Studies show that while slow music can encourage customers to take their time, fast music gets people in and out quickly. This could be useful if you want a rapid turnover of customers to avoid queues, free up tables, or even limit consumption (all-you-can-eat buffets often play uptempo music to prevent customers from staying too long and overeating!).
Conclusion: Different Types of Music at Your Business
Playing different types of music in your business isn’t just about filling the silence—it’s about crafting an experience that feels right for your customers and employees. The music you choose can influence mood, energy levels, and even spending habits.
Calming background music can create a relaxed atmosphere, while upbeat tracks might encourage higher engagement or a quicker pace in a busy environment. The key is to match the music to your brand and audience preferences.
When done right, music creates connections, enhances ambiance, and leaves a lasting impression on those who walk through your doors.
How Different Types of Music Influence Your Customers: FAQ
Does music choice influence sales?
Yes, the right music can increase sales. Studies show that music matching a store’s vibe (e.g., classical in a luxury boutique) aligns with pricing and creates a sense of value. Upbeat tunes often lead to quicker restaurant table turnover, while softer music encourages diners to order more and linger.
Can the wrong music hurt my business?
Absolutely. If the music doesn’t fit your brand or customers, it can distract or even drive people away.
Do customers even notice the background music?
Many don’t consciously notice it, but it still affects them. Subtle background music works on an emotional level, influencing mood and decision-making without commanding attention.
What’s the science behind music and shopping?
Music affects the brain’s emotional center, triggering feelings like happiness, excitement, or calm. These emotions impact how long customers stay, how much they spend, and their perception of your brand.
Can music help with brand identity?
Yes. Music is part of your brand’s personality. A trendy clothing store might use pop hits, while a high-end restaurant may lean on soft jazz or classical. Consistency reinforces what your business stands for.
How can I keep employees happy with the music?
Rotate playlists to avoid overplaying songs. Involve staff in music selection (within brand guidelines) to keep it fresh and enjoyable for everyone.
