At some point, almost everyone has experienced elevator music—those soft, melodic tunes playing in the background as you ascend or descend in an elevator. But what exactly is elevator music, and why does it have such a prominent place in our everyday lives? In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and cultural significance of elevator music, also known as muzak, and how it became an integral part of our public spaces.
What is Elevator Music?
Elevator music refers to a genre of easy-listening instrumental music that is often played in public spaces, such as elevators, shopping malls, waiting rooms, and office buildings. Typically instrumental and devoid of lyrics, these tunes are designed to be non-intrusive and soothing, providing a calming background for environments where silence could create discomfort or awkwardness.
Often, elevator music is characterized by:
- Soft, smooth melodies.
- Slow to medium tempos.
- Instrumental arrangements, sometimes with orchestral or jazz influences.
- A lack of sharp, jarring changes or high-energy elements.
While it is sometimes derisively referred to as “muzak,” elevator music is technically a subset of easy-listening music, often associated with corporate or commercial spaces.
The History of Elevator Music
The origins of elevator music trace back to the early 20th century, when a company called Muzak first emerged. Muzak, founded in 1934, originally created background music designed to be played in elevators and public spaces to improve the customer experience. The company pioneered the concept of “stimulus progression,” a technique that used music to influence mood, increase productivity, or even stimulate sales.
In the 1950s, Muzak became a household name as it expanded into other areas of commercial music distribution, including retail stores and offices. The idea was simple: by using calm, pleasant tunes, Muzak could create a comfortable, relaxing environment for customers and employees. Over time, elevator music became synonymous with Muzak, even though the genre includes a variety of other compositions and artists.
Characteristics of Elevator Music
Elevator music is known for its distinctive characteristics, which make it stand out from other genres. These include:
1. Instrumental Simplicity
Most elevator music is instrumental, avoiding the distraction of lyrics. This makes it unobtrusive and ideal for background listening in busy environments where the focus is on other activities, such as shopping or waiting.
2. Relaxing, Calming Vibes
The melodies are generally smooth and easy to listen to, often using strings, piano, or light percussion to create a mellow atmosphere. This peaceful tone helps reduce tension and anxiety, making people feel more at ease.
3. Non-Obtrusive Sound
Elevator music avoids sharp dynamics or dramatic changes in tempo. The goal is not to draw attention but to fill the space with pleasant, neutral sound that does not disrupt conversation or focus.
4. Adaptations of Popular Songs
Many elevator music arrangements are covers or instrumental versions of popular songs. These familiar tunes, stripped of their original vocals, make listeners feel comfortable while still offering a sense of recognition.
Cultural Impact of Elevator Music
Although elevator music has often been dismissed as bland or annoying, it has had a significant cultural impact in various ways:
1. Soundtrack of Modern Life
Elevator music became ubiquitous in the mid-20th century, and for decades, it was the background sound of malls, restaurants, offices, and, of course, elevators. It created a familiar sonic environment that people could easily associate with certain spaces.
2. A Symbol of Corporate and Commercialism
In many ways, elevator music became emblematic of corporate culture—polished, impersonal, and designed to be easily digestible by the masses. It played a significant role in shaping the soundscape of commercial spaces and was often associated with the smooth, controlled environment of corporate America.
3. Influence on Other Music Genres
Some musicians and composers found inspiration in the soothing sounds of elevator music. Artists from various genres, including ambient, jazz, and lounge music, have drawn on the style’s calm and minimalistic qualities. For example, musicians like Brian Eno and Kenny G have crafted music that fits comfortably into the easy-listening category.
Elevator Music in Modern Times
While its popularity may have waned in the digital age, elevator music is still alive and well in many public spaces. However, the genre has evolved. Today, many businesses and institutions opt for a broader range of background music, from ambient electronic tunes to more modern pop instrumental tracks. Streaming platforms have made it easier to curate playlists that cater to specific moods or atmospheres, but the essence of elevator music remains the same: to create a comfortable, non-disruptive auditory experience.
Interestingly, elevator music has also found a niche in the world of chill-out and lo-fi music, with younger generations embracing its relaxed, atmospheric qualities for use in study sessions or work environments.
Criticism and Parody of Elevator Music
Though elevator music has served a functional purpose, it has not been without its critics. Some argue that the genre is a representation of soulless, corporate control, designed to create a neutral, inoffensive experience that strips away individuality. The term “muzak” is often used pejoratively, evoking thoughts of dull, unimaginative sounds.
On the other hand, the genre has also been the subject of parody and humor. Artists like Frank Zappa and The Residents have produced satirical works that mock the smooth, sterile qualities of elevator music, often incorporating it into avant-garde or experimental sound compositions.
Elevator music may not always be the most exciting or groundbreaking genre, but its purpose is clear: to create a calm, neutral, and pleasant atmosphere. Whether it’s playing softly in the background of an elevator or setting the mood in a hotel lobby, Elevator Music continues to be an integral part of our daily lives. Though it may have started as a simple marketing tool, its evolution into a cultural staple demonstrates how music, in all its forms, has the power to influence the spaces we inhabit.