The first trademark for a sound in the United States was issued in 1978 to NBC for their chimes. MGM has a sound trademark for their roaring lion, as does 20th Century Fox for their trumpet fanfare. Harley Davidson tried to trademark the sound of their motorcycles, but after years of litigation, they finally withdrew their application.

Right now there are fewer than two hundred active trademarks for sounds. A surprisingly small number, considering sound has the power make—or break—a brand.

99% Invisible-148- The Sizzle

If you are looking at a computer screen, your right hand is probably resting on a mouse.  To the left of that mouse (or above, if you're on a laptop) is your keyboard. As you work on the computer, your right hand moves back and forth from keyboard to mouse. You can't do everything you need to do on a computer without constantly moving between input devices.

There is another way.

99% Invisible-149- Of Mice And Men

eleased November 14, 2015
Written by: Tylor David and Jeff Zipp
Produced and Engineered by: Jeff Zipp and Matt Drake at White Hart Studios (Vancouver, BC)
Mixed by: Braeden Pockets Rangno
Mastered by: Brock McFarlane for CPS Mastering 

With influence from a golden age passed, Tylor David channels his vocals paired with a guitar style reminiscent of Greenwich Village circa the 60’s into a dreamy yet melancholy offering.

Waterfall

Micah Rushing

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