The Sound Luxury

In 2024, the sound of Kenny G has been replaced by lo-fi beats in resorts and elevators, transforming the traditional musical landscape. Ambient music has become essential for crafting the perfect atmosphere.

In this shift, Karishma Kuenzang finds why luxury spaces are pressing play on upbeat, personalised songs.

WHEN YOU WALK INTO a resort tucked away in the lap of nature, you expect the soft sounds of birds chirping, a stream flowing nearby, and the rustle of leaves in the wind.

A jazz trumpet solo can disrupt the serene vibe that drew you to the space in the first place. A lo-fi track that allows the sounds of nature to waft in sounds much better.

MUSIC AND DINING

Similarly, imagine biting into a blue cheese naan at Indian Accent against a backdrop of classic rock. You'd be torn between headbanging and focusing on the food. While Western or Indian classical music might be the go-to, some slow-paced electronica would suit the experience as you savour the flavours.

When it comes to choosing a bar, you'll likely want a place where you can sing along after a few drinks-unless it's a serious first date scenario, in which case string quartet covers of popular songs work best. There's a reason you won't spot anyone in their thirties having the time of their lives in a venue catering to Swifties or BTS fans; they'd rather be singing along to Green Day (and queuing for Lollapalooza).

LUXURIOUS MELODIES

In 2024, where it's all about the vibe, luxury doesn't have to be synonymous with jazz or classical music. In the age of Instagram music, there's also a focus on independent artists.

This is why Blue Tokai cafés are great for those working from home; it allows them to discover new music which is not fed to them through a music app algorithm.