The spelling of "elevator music" is based on the IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "el" is pronounced as /ˈɛl/, and the second syllable "e-vat-or" is pronounced as /ˈɛl əˌveɪ tər/. The final syllable "music" is pronounced as /ˈmju zɪk/. Elevator music refers to the instrumental music that is played in elevators, malls, and supermarkets. It is often used to create a soothing atmosphere and help reduce stress for the listeners. The term has become an integral part of modern culture as a background music genre.
Elevator music refers to a genre of mild, ambient background music that is typically played in elevators, waiting rooms, shopping malls, and other public spaces. It is characterized by its unobtrusive, soothing, and often generic sound, with the primary purpose of creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere.
Also known as easy listening music or Muzak, elevator music is generally composed of melodic instrumentals that incorporate elements of jazz, pop, classical, and bossa nova genres. The compositions are often simple, repetitive, and devoid of lyrics to maintain a non-distracting and neutral feel.
Elevator music gained popularity in the mid-20th century when it was realized that soothing background music could help create a positive environment in public spaces. It is designed to be unobtrusive by being played softly and blending into the background, allowing individuals to carry on conversations or focus on their tasks without interference.
The term "elevator music" has also acquired a connotation of being unexciting or bland due to its wide use in various commercial settings. It is often associated with a lack of originality or artistic creativity. However, elevator music continues to be employed for its intended purpose of providing a calming and unobtrusive sonic backdrop in public spaces where relaxation and stress reduction are desired.
The word "elevator music" is a term that originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. It refers to the type of background music that is played in public spaces like elevators, hotel lobbies, supermarkets, and shopping malls.
The term "elevator" comes from the Latin word "elevator", which means "a lifting device" or "one who raises". The word later entered the English language in the late 18th century and specifically referred to a mechanical device used for vertically transporting people or goods between floors in a building.
The term "elevator music" was coined to describe the kind of music typically played in these spaces with elevators. It was characterized by its soothing and unobtrusive nature, intended to create a pleasant and calming atmosphere for people moving from one floor to another.