Cigna teaming with Magic Johnson on music initiative

Cigna Healthcare is teaming up with NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson on a campaign centered on the premise that music and sounds can impact mental and emotional well-being.

The initiative centers on a digital album of therapeutic tracks, created by Cigna Healthcare, ranging from rainforest ambience and ocean waves to basketball sounds, designed to trigger an autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR).

An ASMR response, sometimes described as a pleasant tingling feeling, can lead to feelings of relaxation and is usually sought for its potential to aid sleep and reduce anxiety. Triggers can include whispering, crisp sounds and certain music.

Cigna Healthcare cited research from Johns Hopkins University and the American Psychiatric Association, indicating that listening to music or soothing sounds can significantly reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety, especially in workplace settings. Music therapy has also been shown to help with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and sometimes substance use cravings.

WHAT'S THE IMPACT 

To create the album, Cigna Healthcare collaborated with clinical experts and music therapists to establish musical requirements for every composition. Drawing on research, the team selected elements such as tempo, frequency and instrumentation to target specific mental and emotional needs.

For example, tracks designed to ease anxiety and sharpen focus feature slow, non-lyrical instrumentals and gentle birdsongs, while those intended for stress relief and sleep incorporate ambient soundscapes, binaural beats and soothing nature sounds.

The first track, “Bounce,” is high-tempo and was inspired by Magic Johnson's drive on the court. The basketball star appears on the cover of the album, which is dubbed “Magic Sounds.”

It’s not the first time Cigna and Magic Johnson have joined forces. In April, Johnson attended a Bright Futures Carnival that provided Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena kids with a day of activities, food and gifts in the wake of the devastating wildfires that affected much of the area. 

“Music has always been a source of motivation and healing for me, both on and off the court,” said Johnson in a statement. “I’m proud to partner with Cigna Healthcare to bring Magic Sounds to life and help people find new ways to care for their mental and emotional health.”

The album will be available free of charge beginning Nov. 15.

THE LARGER TREND 

Cigna Healthcare's parent company, The Cigna Group, recorded $1.87 billion in profit in the third quarter of 2025, beating analysts’ expectations as shares ticked up prior to the company’s earnings call last week. 

Touting the performance of Evernorth Health services in particular, Cigna Group President and CEO David Cordani on Thursday said the company has been “navigating through dynamic and challenging environments.”