Preface:
Imagine this scenario. You enter the elevator, the doors swing shut and a gentle song (vocal or otherwise) fills the room. Though frequently written off as background noise, elevator music, howsoever short and seemingly uneventful has a special role in our everyday lives. In my case, I’ve caught myself humming these songs without even recognising them, and sometimes for days! It made me wonder: does lift music serve any purpose more than just a background score while we shuttle between floors, up and down?
The history of lift music is intriguing:- It’s origins are possibly as old as the time that elevators got their act together as a serious mode of vertical transport in the 1920s. In all likelihood, it was created to provide a peaceful ambiance to soothe the nerves of passengers riding the elevator, a location that could otherwise be awkwardly silent without much to do. The goal nevertheless was admirable! To offer a nice diversion during the little break when switching floors.
Elevator music has changed over time:- It started out with instrumental versions of hit songs with tracks evolved along with the tastes of the audience. In an effort to satisfy a wide range of preferences, it now includes a variety of genres, from classical to modern. Thoughts on what constitutes perfect lift music is still divided, though.
Some contend that lift music serves as little more than an inoffensive background sound score that is added to fill boring though inevitable spaces rather than providing any real benefit. Advocates, on the other hand, regard it as a subdued kind of art that elevates the atmosphere and brings serenity to an otherwise uninteresting area. It adds a little extra pleasure to the brief lift journey by being a silent companion.
That said, there’s an undeniable and indisputable charm to lift music, even though some may roll their eyes at the very mention of it. Without a doubt, it has the ability to create a calm atmosphere that serves as a brief diversion from the stress of everyday life. It’s the quiet hum that follows us around in a tiny metal box, a momentary escape from the mayhem outside.
In the end, and in my opinion, elevator music is more than just background noise. It’s a subtle, overlooked feature that brings a little peace to our busy lives. Even though the songs are subdued, their influence cannot be denied. Thus, the next time you’re in a lift, stop and enjoy the simple tunes that are playing overhead. It may surprise you to learn that lift music, far from being an uninteresting background, is a soothing companion throughout the short trip between floors, providing a small respite from the everyday din.
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