In hospitality, every detail contributes to creating memorable guest experiences, and music is no exception. Whether it’s a serene melody in the spa or upbeat tunes in the bar, the right background music can elevate the ambiance and reinforce your brand’s identity. This guide explores how hotels can strategically use music to enhance every space, delight guests, and create a cohesive experience throughout the property.
Background music isn’t just filler—it’s a powerful tool to set the tone and evoke emotion. When thoughtfully curated, it can:
1. The Lobby
As the heart of your hotel, the lobby sets the stage for the guest experience. Opt for welcoming, sophisticated music that evolves throughout the day—soft instrumentals in the morning, light electronic beats in the afternoon, and jazzy or soulful tones in the evening.
2. Restaurants and Bars
Pair music with the dining experience. Relaxed acoustic or jazz for brunch, smooth lounge music for dinner, and energetic tracks for cocktails create a seamless atmosphere. Custom playlists or live DJs can be used to amplify your bar’s vibe, especially during themed events.
3. Spa and Wellness Areas
Create a tranquil sanctuary with ambient music, nature sounds, or instrumental pieces. The key is to foster relaxation and mindfulness, helping guests unwind from their busy lives.
4. Fitness Centers
Energize workout sessions with upbeat tracks or motivational playlists. Keep in mind your demographic—choose modern, high-energy songs that appeal to a wide audience.
5. Event Spaces
Customizable music is essential here. Whether it’s a corporate event, a wedding, or a private celebration, let the guests set the tone while your hotel supports with premium sound systems and playlists curated for the occasion.
Each area of your hotel calls for a unique vibe, and the right genres help set the stage:
Visit our Spotify for a Selection of Sample Background Music Playlsts
1. Curate Playlists That Evolve Throughout the Day
The mood shifts as the day progresses, and your music should reflect this. Start with gentle tunes in the morning, build energy in the afternoon, and transition to more engaging or relaxing sounds in the evening.
2. Keep Your Brand in Mind
Music should align with your property’s unique identity. A luxury urban hotel might benefit from sleek, modern beats, while a tropical resort might opt for breezy, acoustic tunes.
3. Use Professional Music Services
Relying on consumer streaming services or personal playlists might seem convenient, but they’re not licensed for commercial use and can present legal risks. Professional music curators ensure that your playlists are DRM-compliant, fully licensed, and tailored to your hotel’s specific needs. They can also create custom playlists that evolve with your brand and deliver high-quality sound across all spaces.
4. Optimize Music for Every Space
Every area of your hotel serves a different purpose, and the music should reflect that:
5. Create a Seamless Guest Experience with Organization
Managing music across different spaces and times doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Use digital tools or maintain a detailed guide for your hotel’s music program. Document playlists by time of day, space, and occasion, and include specific volume levels for each area. You can even create a “Do Not Play” list to ensure the music always aligns with your hotel’s standards.
6. Engage Guests with Live Music and DJs
Nothing captures attention like live music or a skilled DJ. From a jazz trio in the lobby to a DJ spinning by the pool, these performances bring energy and exclusivity to your property. They’re also excellent tools for drawing attention to your other amenities, such as signature cocktails or exclusive dining packages.
7. Partner with Experts to Craft a Unique Soundtrack
Luxury hotels like The Four Season, The Ritz-Carlton and the W Hotel set the bar for creating a cohesive sound throughout their properties. By collaborating with professional curators, they develop personalized playlists and soundscapes that reflect their brand while elevating the guest experience. A tailored music strategy ensures that your property resonates with guests long after their stay.
Guests notice when music feels disjointed between spaces. A well-thought-out music program creates a sense of cohesion that enhances the overall guest experience. With curated playlists, live music, and consistent branding, your hotel can leave a lasting impression that guests will want to return to.
Discover the best music to play in your hotel lobby and learn how curated live music can transform hotel guest experiences.
At St. Royal Entertainment, we specialize in crafting unforgettable live music experiences tailored for luxury hotels, high-end venues, and upscale establishments. As a full-service agency, we handle everything from talent selection and innovative music programming to seamless event production and logistics, enhancing your venue’s ambiance while supporting your business goals.
Ready to transform your venue’s atmosphere with exceptional live music? Partner with us to design a music program that captivates guests and reinforces your brand. Bring your vision to life unforgettable experiences for your guests. Contact us today to explore how we can help you achieve your goals with professional live music programming.
Andrew St. Royal is the founder and creative director of St. Royal Entertainment. A former professional musician, Andrew has been instrumental in thousands of events, bringing his expertise as a musician, band leader, agent, music designer, and event producer to every experience. His deep understanding of live entertainment and event production allows him to create unforgettable, strategically curated music programs for high-end venues and luxury events.