When a commercial captures our attention, it’s often the music that pulls us in. The right song can make a 30-second spot feel like a short film, creating an emotional connection that lingers long after the ad is over. In the world of Apple’s iconic advertising, one of the creative forces shaping these memorable moments is Rowan Puri.
While many have searched for the “Rowan Puri Apple commercial actress,” the truth is far more interesting. She isn’t the face in front of the camera; she’s the mastermind behind the sound, a music supervisor whose work has left an indelible mark on some of Apple’s most powerful campaigns.
The Woman Behind the Music: Who is Rowan Puri?
Rowan Puri is a music supervisor at TBWAMedia Arts Lab, the bespoke global advertising agency dedicated to Apple. Her role is to find and license the perfect music to accompany Apple’s visuals, a task that requires a unique blend of artistic sensibility and business acumen.
With a degree in International Affairs and International Business, Puri’s journey into the world of music supervision wasn’t a direct one. Her early career saw her interning at music labels and media companies like VICE Media, where she honed her skills in music licensing and publishing. This foundation gave her the expertise needed to navigate the complex world of music rights and artist relations.
Before joining Apple’s agency, she was already deeply embedded in the music industry, building a reputation for her keen ear and cultural insight. Her promotion to full Music Supervisor in 2023 solidified her position as a key player in shaping the sonic identity of one of the world’s biggest brands.
The Art of Music Supervision: More Than Just a Catchy Tune
A music supervisor does far more than just pick a good song. For a brand like Apple, the process is a meticulous art form. It involves diving deep into the campaign’s core message and finding a track that not only complements the visuals but elevates the entire story.
This means understanding the brand’s ethos of innovation and clean design, and then translating that into sound. The music must feel authentic, emotionally resonant, and culturally relevant. It’s a process of storytelling, where the soundtrack becomes a character in its own right.
Puri’s work involves everything from scouring for emerging indie artists to negotiating with major labels. It’s a delicate balance of creativity, legal negotiation, and trend forecasting, all aimed at creating a seamless and impactful experience for the viewer.
Crafting Iconic Moments: Rowan Puri’s Signature Apple Commercials
Among Puri’s most celebrated projects is Apple’s “The Invincibles” campaign. This ad, which focused on accessibility, was praised for its powerful and emotional message. The custom-composed soundtrack was a crucial part of its success, earning the campaign a shortlist nomination at the prestigious D&AD Awards.
The music didn’t just support the story; it amplified it, creating a sense of strength and resilience that perfectly matched the ad’s theme. It’s a prime example of how a well-chosen piece of music can turn a commercial into a cultural moment.
Another high-profile project was the promotional content for Usher’s Super Bowl LVIII halftime show. Puri’s team curated the music for the behind-the-scenes material, building hype and excitement for one of the biggest entertainment events of the year. The music captured the energy of the performance, engaging millions of viewers and proving that even supporting content can have a major impact with the right soundtrack.
The Ripple Effect: Puri’s Influence on Modern Advertising
Rowan Puri’s work has helped shine a spotlight on the critical role of music supervision in advertising. She represents a new wave of creative professionals who are part brand strategist, part cultural curator, and part legal expert.
Her approach demonstrates that music should be considered a core component of a campaign from the very beginning, not an afterthought. This has influenced how other brands and agencies approach their own advertising, leading to a greater appreciation for the power of sound.
By blending deep cultural awareness with a strategic vision, Puri has shown that the right music can do more than just sell a product—it can build a brand’s identity and forge a lasting connection with its audience.
The Future of Sound: What’s Next for Music in Commercials?
The world of advertising is constantly evolving, and the role of music within it is no exception. Emerging trends like AI-powered music discovery and interactive soundtracks are set to change the game, offering new ways to personalize the viewing experience.
As a forward-thinking leader in her field, Rowan Puri is at the forefront of this evolution. Her work continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, exploring new ways to use sound to tell compelling stories.
One thing, however, remains timeless: the power of a perfectly chosen soundtrack. In an age of fleeting attention spans, music’s ability to create an instant emotional connection is more valuable than ever. And as long as there are stories to be told, there will be a need for creative minds like Rowan Puri to give them a voice.
