Movie trailers have evolved into high-energy spectacles designed to audiences and generate anticipation. Beyond their role in promoting upcoming films, they also serve as powerful vehicles for music exposure. A well-placed song in a trailer can spark curiosity, drive searches, and ultimately influence streaming numbers and chart rankings. From classic hits being rediscovered to new releases gaining rapid popularity, the synergy between trailers and music consumption is undeniable. But how exactly does this relationship work? Does the inclusion of a song in a blockbuster trailer guarantee chart success? Let’s explore the ways in which movie trailers shape the fate of songs and artists, often turning overlooked tracks into mainstream sensations.
1. Trailers as a Launchpad for Nostalgic Hits
Movie trailers often feature classic or forgotten songs, reigniting their popularity. A prime example is Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, which surged in streams after its inclusion in the Suicide Squad (2016) trailer. The dramatic pairing of music and visuals introduces older hits to a new generation, increasing their relevance.
Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music often see spikes in song plays immediately after trailer releases. Music apps even create playlists featuring “songs from trailers,” allowing listeners to revisit them easily. The emotional connection fostered through a cinematic moment helps music regain commercial traction, proving that trailers don’t just advertise films—they also serve as a marketing powerhouse for songs.
2. Viral Trailer Moments Drive Streaming Spikes
Trailers that create viral moments often lead to massive streaming spikes for featured songs. A perfect case is Something in the Way by Nirvana, which saw a 1,200% increase in Spotify streams after appearing in The Batman (2022) teaser. The haunting atmosphere of the trailer resonated deeply with audiences, prompting them to seek out the song.
Social media further amplifies these moments, as users share their excitement for the song-trailer pairing. Platforms like TikTok and Twitter play a crucial role in generating discussions, leading to trends where users create their own edits using the trailer’s soundtrack. This modern digital ecosystem ensures that a song used in a highly anticipated trailer can dominate music charts almost overnight.
Something in the Way by Nirvana (image via Getty)3. Movie Genres and Music Trends Go Hand-in-Hand
Different film genres influence the type of music that gains traction from trailers. Superhero films often feature rock anthems, action movies lean towards high-energy beats, and drama films spotlight soulful ballads. When a song aligns perfectly with a film’s theme, audiences become more engaged, leading to organic music discovery.
For instance, Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin experienced a major resurgence after being used in Thor: Ragnarok (2017). The song’s powerful riffs matched the film’s tone, resulting in a renewed interest from both long-time fans and newer listeners. This pattern illustrates how genre and sound complement each other to create an irresistible musical impact.
Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin (image via Getty)4. New Artists Gain Instant Recognition
While established artists benefit from trailer exposure, lesser-known musicians can experience career-changing moments. A great example is Kaleo’s Way Down We Go, which skyrocketed in popularity after being used in several movie trailers, including Logan (2017). The cinematic pairing helped the band reach global audiences, proving that a well-placed trailer feature can be as influential as a hit radio single.
Music supervisors play a crucial role in selecting tracks that fit the movie’s aesthetic. When an unknown artist’s song fits the right trailer, it can introduce them to millions of potential fans. As a result, their streams, social media following, and concert ticket sales often experience exponential growth. In this way, trailers act as a launchpad, propelling rising stars into mainstream success.