Discover the unexpected transformation of Centrelink’s hold music from a source of frustration to a global phenomenon, inspiring art, entertainment, and even performance pieces.
It’s a tune that has become synonymous with frustration and boredom, but Opus No. 1, also known as the Centrelink song, has taken on a life of its own.
From Purgatory to Performance Art
For years, this synth-heavy melody was relegated to the background, playing on repeat while we waited on hold for what felt like an eternity. But in recent times, it’s been given new life in various forms of art and entertainment. The song has been remixed by DJs, performed by dancers, and even featured in a beer commercial.
Hold music remixes have become a staple in modern telecommunications.
These remixed tunes are designed to keep callers engaged while on hold, often featuring popular songs or artists with a unique twist.
According to a survey, 70% of businesses use music to improve customer experience.
In the past decade, there has been a significant increase in demand for customized hold music remixes, with some companies even offering bespoke options.
Statistics show that businesses using hold music remixes see a 20% decrease in caller frustration and a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.
The Viral TikTok Sensation
Influencer Lyanna Kea‘s 2024 TikTok video, where she busts out moves to the tune, collected over 91,000 likes and 2,297 comments. Many have shared their own experiences of dancing or performing to the song while on hold.
A Global Phenomenon
Opus No. 1 was created by Tim Carleton in 1989 and has since become a global phenomenon. It’s been played over 2 million times on Spotify and has even inspired a work of performance art at the Fringe festival.
The Soundtrack to Lockdown
Artist Jonathan Homsey credits lockdown as the muse for his work, which featured part of the audience standing in the Melbourne City Baths while a dancer performed to the song. ‘I just wanted this communal experience to bring people back to that moment,’ he said.
The Science Behind a Good Hold Song
According to Jenny Crosby, director at Music On Hold Australia, the winning formula for a good hold song is a decent beat, consistent volume, and a lack of emotional arousal. ‘Honestly, if it was in the world of music generally, hold music would be very boring,’ she said.
A Banger by Any Other Name
When asked if Opus No. 1 is a banger, Lyanna Kea laughs and says, ‘If a banger is defined as something that raises your blood pressure, then yeah, I define it as a banger.‘
