Lounge music in casinos may evoke memories of smooth melodies with low lights as a piano plays softly. Lounge music and jazz were the heart of sophistication, starting all the way back in the 1920s. The music was ever-present in casinos and lounges, but what has happened to it since then?
Let’s take a look at the history and what relationship, if any, it has with casinos in the present day.
The Origins of Casino Lounge Jazz
Lounge music, as it is popularly known, is deliberately curated for its surroundings. A blend of jazz, soul, and even sounds from Polynesia to give it a quality that can set the tone for the evening. According to historians, it was created as such in order to complement a main event, rather than distract from it.
Jazz music has been synonymous with casinos dating back to the 20s and 30s in the US, adding a backdrop to Vegas nightlife. By the 50s, iconic singers such as Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald meant jazz was cemented as part of the casino experience. This all changed in the 60s though because of one man.
The 1960s Evolution—and a Sidestep from Swing
Elvis was the one who caused a dramatic shift in how casinos were viewed as live entertainment venues. Residencies in Las Vegas are commonplace now due to Elvis’ groundbreaking stay in the city. His energy on stage in the International Hotel was a dramatic departure from what the jazz audiences were used to. The softer lounge vibe still persisted on record players, though, and fans of the genre can still connect with the music through music streaming platforms and compilations like Best of Lounge Jazz.
What about now?
Lounge jazz is used more selectively in casinos these days and is mostly confined to quieter places like VIP lounges or sections designed to keep a calm ambience. As gaming has moved online, casinos try to replicate the feel of a traditional bricks-and-mortar experience in the digital world. So for gamers who want to experience the live casino jazz lounge from their home, they can have everything but the music, that is. Online casinos are consistently developing their platforms to make them more interactive and immersive.
For example, companies that offer live casino games in the UK allow players to take advantage of live dealer games from professional studios or the casino venue itself. They can interact with other players and the dealers while it is streamed in HD, contributing to the immersive experience. However, they will have to stream their own songs to transport themselves back to the 20s and 30s. Perhaps, adding music such as this to these live casino games could be a way for platforms to further develop thier offerings.
The music evokes a period of smoky bars and casinos from days gone by, echoes of a completely different era. An era that has long since gone but can be replicated at home or when playing online if the want exists.
