The sound of an ice cream truck jingle can instantly transport you back to your childhood summers. But have you ever wondered where the concept of an ice cream truck came from? Why do ice cream trucks have music? And just what defines the perfect ice cream truck jingle? Well, believe it or not, ice cream truck music is both a science and an art form.
Where did the concept of ice cream trucks originate?
The concept of ice cream trucks, originally known as “screamers,” can be traced back to the 1920s in the United States. The trucks were initially designed to transport ice blocks to people’s homes. Electric refrigeration became more widespread, so the trucks were repurposed to sell ice cream and other frozen treats.
Harry Burt created the first official ice cream truck in 1920. He also founded the Good Humor Company, in Youngstown, Ohio.
Burt outfitted a truck with a freezer and bells that would ring to attract customers. Other ice cream companies soon followed suit. The ice cream truck quickly became popular across the United States.
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the ice cream truck became an important source of income for many people. It provided a way to sell frozen treats directly to consumers. In the 1950s-60s, the ice cream truck became an icon of American childhood. With its distinctive jingle and colorful, cartoonish designs, how could it not?
The bell evolved into a song or “ jingle” to attract customers. Like all marketing tactics, elements of psychology were eventually applied
What’s the recipe for the perfect ice cream truck jingle? Mix the ideal tempo with a simple, easy to remember melody. A dash of nostalgia and repetition.
The truth is, there’s a science behind the perfect ice cream truck jingle that goes beyond a catchy tune. To start, there is the tempo and melody to consider.
The melody should be easy to remember, with a catchy hook. So it can be repeated. Studies have found that repetition is key to creating a memorable jingle. It’s more likely to stick in people’s heads and create a sense of familiarity (and subsequently nostalgia). If the jingle is short, it also creates a sense of urgency and excitement.
The ideal tempo for an ice cream truck jingle is between 120 and 140 beats per minute. This tempo has been shown to be the most effective at creating a feeling of excitement and anticipation in listeners. It should be a pleasant sound; obviously harsh, grating tones should be avoided.
Volume also plays a critical role. The jingle should be loud enough to be heard from considerable distance without being disruptive. Potential customers can hear the truck coming with plenty of time to get money ready. Also, keep in mind the acoustics of most neighborhoods. The sound will bounce around without the volume cranked too high.
Playing on Nostalgia: The Sneaky Marketing Gimmick
The use of nostalgia in ice cream truck jingles is a powerful tool. It’s deliberately used for creating a sense of familiarity, safety, and comfort. Melodies reminiscent of nursery rhymes and old tunes like “The Entertainer” serve as a connection to the past. Thus, creating a positive association with the truck. Which makes people feel good about buying ice cream from the proprietor. It’s actually kind of sinister if you think about it too long.
What songs do ice cream trucks use?
The more popular ice cream truck songs are “Turkey in the Straw”, “Mister Softee Jingle”, and “Music Box Dancer”. Kids songs, “Do Your Ears Hang Low”, “Yankee Doodle”, “London Bridge Is Falling Down”, or “La Cucaracha” are also popular.
Ultimately, the perfect ice cream truck jingle is a combination of science and art. It needs to be catchy, memorable, and nostalgia inducing. While also being loud enough to be heard from a distance and pleasant to the ear. The jingle should create a sense of excitement and anticipation in listeners, reminding them of happy times from their childhoods. With these factors in mind, it’s no wonder ice cream truck jingles are a beloved part of summer for so many. It was planned that way!
