Gambling and the bright lights of casinos have been inspiring musicians since the first slot machine was ever conceived and the first hand of blackjack ever dealt. If you are looking for some tunes to accompany you the next time you hit the tables or just want a song that encapsulates the feeling of playing, then blast these tunes out of your stereo:
1. The Gambler By Kenny Rogers
This country classic was written in 1976 and offers an insight into the mind of a gambler. In the song, a gambler offers the narrator some advice by using poker metaphors:
“You’ve got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em,
Know when to walk away, know when to run.
You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table.
There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealin’s done.”
A lot has changed in the world since 1976 when this banger was released. If Kenny Rogers was to release a gambling-themed song this year he might base it around a modern game like slingo bingo. We could imagine some about landing jokers at the right time and spinning the reels in quest of matching numbers.
2. Viva Las Vegas By Elvis Presley
This song was released by Elvis Presley in 1964 and does a remarkable job of capturing the energy of Las Vegas and the endless opportunities it offers. Presley describes all of the different action available at the tables, “Oh, there’s blackjack and poker and the roulette wheel.” The King of Rock and Roll even makes a little prayer to Lady Luck, “I’m gonna give it ev’rything I’ve got Lady Luck please let the dice stay hot.”
Just listening to this song makes you want to go on a trip to Las Vegas and soak up all of the bright lights and fun. This song does send a jolt of energy throughout your body and has you dreaming of hitting it big in the City of Sin!
3. Easy Money By Billy Joel
This Billy Joel classic was released in 1983 and will have you dancing around the pad. In this song a variety of different casino games get a mention. Apart from being a catchy tune, its lyrics offer some wisdom that money can’t buy happiness:
“I’ve been working all my life, can’t afford to wait
Let me call my wife so I can tell her I’ll be late. I could get lucky, oh, things could go right.”
This lively tune is all about finding true wealth within yourself and not worrying about external things. The song also has some critiques of the American Dream. It’s pretty deep for a pop song!
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