I’ve wanted to post this topic for some time. My reluctance involved the fact that there’s nothing new about alternatives to radio. I think some twists will come with this post though.
Long before the technology advances of today, there was services such as Muzak that provided “music by wire.” If you’re so inclined, you can read about that company online and all they accomplished long before Elvis. It's an interesting story and it shows incredible insight in recognizing and responding to certain business needs.
Muzak was the dominant brand that was heard in many elevators years ago. They will always be synonymous with that portion of their programming. If you are in your senior years, you would have likely heard their programming in establishments where ambiance, such as upscale restaurants, was part of the experience.
And that’s just it. Muzak didn’t just provide two-hour music loops for elevators. They offered other types of programming for various types of businesses. Unlike radio stations targeting key demographics for sales purposes, Muzak and some others had the business client in mind.
As I think about all of this in terms of where I’m living now – The Treasure Coast – I have noticed a definite shift away from conventional radio to alternatives in the various businesses and medical facilities I frequent. There are reasons for this which we’ll explore.
As I think back to childhood days, I remember going with my mom to pay utility bills. These places looked like banks with long lines and teller-like windows. Yes – way before online bill paying. In the background, you’d hear a unique mix of music, often on the softer side with their own commercials about that company’s’ various services.
Fast forward to today. I believe many people, if blindfolded, could figure they were at a Publix or an Olive Garden. It’s that distinctive sound that’s all a part of the established brand. If it’s a trip to the Outback Steakhouse, you just know Men at Work’s “Down Under” will eventually play in their rock-oriented music backdrop.
Whether it’s from the radio or other sources, the type of music chosen for a business is an important decision. If the business preference is to go with softer music, it’s highly likely it will be found outside of terrestrial radio. But there are exceptions. And we shouldn’t assume older folks don’t like rock music. The location of it comes into play. More on this upcoming.
Next: Lowering the volume.
Long before the technology advances of today, there was services such as Muzak that provided “music by wire.” If you’re so inclined, you can read about that company online and all they accomplished long before Elvis. It's an interesting story and it shows incredible insight in recognizing and responding to certain business needs.
Muzak was the dominant brand that was heard in many elevators years ago. They will always be synonymous with that portion of their programming. If you are in your senior years, you would have likely heard their programming in establishments where ambiance, such as upscale restaurants, was part of the experience.
And that’s just it. Muzak didn’t just provide two-hour music loops for elevators. They offered other types of programming for various types of businesses. Unlike radio stations targeting key demographics for sales purposes, Muzak and some others had the business client in mind.
As I think about all of this in terms of where I’m living now – The Treasure Coast – I have noticed a definite shift away from conventional radio to alternatives in the various businesses and medical facilities I frequent. There are reasons for this which we’ll explore.
As I think back to childhood days, I remember going with my mom to pay utility bills. These places looked like banks with long lines and teller-like windows. Yes – way before online bill paying. In the background, you’d hear a unique mix of music, often on the softer side with their own commercials about that company’s’ various services.
Fast forward to today. I believe many people, if blindfolded, could figure they were at a Publix or an Olive Garden. It’s that distinctive sound that’s all a part of the established brand. If it’s a trip to the Outback Steakhouse, you just know Men at Work’s “Down Under” will eventually play in their rock-oriented music backdrop.
Whether it’s from the radio or other sources, the type of music chosen for a business is an important decision. If the business preference is to go with softer music, it’s highly likely it will be found outside of terrestrial radio. But there are exceptions. And we shouldn’t assume older folks don’t like rock music. The location of it comes into play. More on this upcoming.
Next: Lowering the volume.
