Don't miss the latest stories
Netflix Almost Added Goat’s Bleating Behind Its Famous ‘Ta-Dum’ Sound Logo
By Izza Sofia, 07 Aug 2020
Subscribe to newsletter
Like us on Facebook
Image via sitthiphong / Shutterstock.com
Netflix’s iconic sound logo, commonly referred to as the “ta-dum,” was created by Oscar-winning sound designer Lon Bender and debuted back in 2015.
Netflix’s vice president of product Todd Yellin said during an interview in the Twenty Thousand Hertz podcast that there was a shortlist of sounds considered for the opening, including bubbles underwater as well as the bleating of goats.
“I liked the sound of the goat. It was funny. It was quirky. It was our version of Leo the Lion [of MGM],” Yellin said.
Thankfully, Netflix scrapped the animal cry, resulting in the current, now-iconic sound.
Yellin then explained the process of coming up with the sound, together with Bender, to create the perfect intro likely to make viewers go, “Wow, I’m about to get a treat, I’m about to get an amazing story, that’s relevant to me, that’s cinematic in my home.”
Bender said the sound logo was inspired by the noise his wedding ring made when it knocked into his wooden cabinet. He then added depth to it by mixing in a slowed-down anvil, muted hits and a reversed electric guitar, resulting in what he described as a “blossoming sound.”
The catchy “ta-dum” was shortlisted among several options, and eventually made it to the top three after sounds considered too long for an intro were filtered out.
The “ta-dum” came out tops after being the choice of internet users in a poll, who said it channeled authority. Voters said the sound was “dramatic” and made them feel as if something was about to “begin.”
New episode!
— Twenty Thousand Hertz (@20korg) August 5, 2020
#100 | Ta-Dum! It’s Netflix.
The never-before-told story behind the most recognizable sonic logo in the world. Plus, their second sonic logo by @HansZimmer that you may have never heard.
→ https://t.co/etz2omw29Z pic.twitter.com/ohXSgKHHVU
[via Indiewire, opening image via sitthiphong / Shutterstock.com]
Receive interesting stories like this one in your inbox
Also check out these recent news