MUSE Platinum

2026

The Story Is with Elex Michaelson | Sonic Identity

Entrant

Stephen Arnold Music (SAM)

Category

Audio - Program

Client's Name

CNN

Country / Region

United States

About The Entry

SAM partnered with CNN to create a distinctive sonic brand and custom music package for The Story Is with Elex Michaelson, a Los Angeles–based primetime program hosted by award-winning journalist Elex Michaelson. Designed to reflect the show’s modern perspective and West Coast roots, the music blends bass, piano, synth, organ, brass, and drums into a confident, contemporary sound that feels bright and engaging.
The sonic identity supports the show’s mission to go beyond traditional news and politics, underscoring stories that resonate emotionally with audiences across sports, health, technology, entertainment, and more. SAM’s music helps frame the show as intelligent and relatable, reinforcing The Story Is with Elex Michaelson as a fresh, compelling voice in CNN’s primetime lineup.

Featured Media

Credits

President, Creative & Marketing / SAM
Chad Cook
President, Music Services / SAM
Whitney Arnold
Production Director / SAM
Jesus Garcia
Chief Engineer / SAM
Paul West
Lead Composer / SAM
Andrew Oye
Creative Director / CNN
Brent Overbeck
Senior Production Designer / CNN International
Matt Osbourne
Design Director / CNN International
John Leonard
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