Expressing the mix of emotions that people feel in a casino through music can be a challenge. However, some musicians have managed to incorporate elements of the gambling experience into their songs, including the rush of excitement, the lows of disappointment, and the anxiety of taking risks. Our experts curated a list of the top gambling songs for you to turn on every time you place your wager or feel the excitement of winning.
Correlation Between Music and Gambling
The intricate relationship between music and gambling is more than just a coincidence. Music plays a significant role in shaping a gambler’s mood and behaviour, with casinos carefully selecting tunes to create a desired atmosphere.
Research has shown that specific music tempos can impact risk-taking, encouraging gamblers to make bolder bets. Upbeat songs can induce a sense of excitement, while slower melodies may evoke a more relaxed, contemplative state.
This fascinating interplay between music and gambling reveals how our auditory experiences can significantly influence our actions at the betting table.
The Best Songs About Gambling
In this section, we handpicked the best gambling-inspired songs. From iconic legends to contemporary artists, this playlist will dive you into the atmosphere of game’s excitement.
The Gambler – Kenny Rogers (1978)
“The Gambler” is an iconic country song by legendary singer Kenny Rogers. Released in 1978, this classic tune tells the story of a gambler who imparts sage advice to a young traveller on a train. With its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, the song has become a timeless anthem for risk-takers and card players.
- Artist: Kenny Rogers
- Released: 1978
- Genre: Country
Ace of Spades – Motörhead (1980)
It is a hard-hitting heavy metal track by the iconic British band Motörhead. Released in 1980, this high-energy anthem showcases the band’s signature fast-paced guitar riffs and driving rhythm. The song’s lyrics reference poker and the risks in a gambler’s life.
- Artist: Motörhead
- Released: 1980
- Genre: Heavy Metal
Tumbling Dice – The Rolling Stones (1972)
It is a classic rock song by the legendary Rolling Stones. They released it in 1972 as a part of their critically acclaimed album “Exile on Main St.”. The song features catchy guitar riffs and a driving rhythm. The lyrics, which draw parallels between love and chance, capture the spirit of taking risks and embracing the excitement of rolling the dice.
- Artist: The Rolling Stones
- Released: 1972
- Genre: Rock
Viva Las Vegas – Elvis Presley (1964)
“Viva Las Vegas” is a gambling song and rock’n’roll anthem by the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. The singer released the song in 1964 as the title track for the movie of the same name, and it is a tribute to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. With its infectious melody and Elvis’s unmistakable vocals, “Viva Las Vegas” captures the excitement and allure of the city that never sleeps.
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Released: 1964
- Genre: Rock and Roll
Luck Be a Lady – Frank Sinatra (1965)
It is a sophisticated jazz number by the legendary Frank Sinatra. Frank Loesser composed this timeless classic for the 1950 Broadway musical “Guys and Dolls”. The song’s elegant melody and Sinatra’s smooth vocals capture the essence of a high-stakes gamble as the singer implores Lady Luck to be on his side.
- Artist: Frank Sinatra
- Released: 1965
- Genre: Jazz
Poker Face – Lady Gaga (2008)
“Poker Face” is a chart-topping pop hit by the multifaceted artist Lady Gaga. Released in 2008 as a part of her debut album “The Fame”, the song features a catchy, danceable beat and Gaga’s distinct vocal style. The lyrics revolve around the concept of maintaining a stoic expression during a high-stakes poker game, drawing parallels to relationships and self-control.
- Artist: Lady Gaga
- Released: 2008
- Genre: Pop
Shape of My Heart – Sting (1993)
This is a contemplative pop-rock ballad by Sting. Released in 1993, the song features a gentle, soothing melody accompanied by Sting’s introspective vocals. The gambler’s blues lyrics delve into the symbolic world of cards, exploring the human desire for understanding and connection.
- Artist: Sting
- Released: 1993
- Genre: Pop Rock
Roll of the Dice – Bruce Springsteen (1992)
“Roll of the Dice” is a captivating rock song by the legendary Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1992 as a part of his album “Human Touch”, the track showcases Springsteen’s signature storytelling and passionate vocals. The lyrics explore the theme of taking risks in life and love, exploring gambling analogies between the uncertainty and excitement that come with rolling the dice.
- Artist: Bruce Springsteen
- Released: 1992
- Genre: Rock
Blackjack – Ray Charles (1955)
“Blackjack” is a captivating rhythm and blues tune by the influential artist Ray Charles. Recorded in 1955, this classic song showcases Charles’s soulful voice and exceptional piano skills. The lyrics tell the story of a man facing tough luck at the blackjack table, reflecting the ups and downs of betting.
- Artist: Ray Charles
- Released: 1955
- Genre: Rhythm and Blues
Casino Boogie – The Rolling Stones (1972)
It is an upbeat rock track by the iconic Rolling Stones. Released in 1972 as part of their acclaimed album “Exile on Main St.”, the song features an infectious groove and the band’s signature guitar riffs. The lyrics, which include various betting references, create a vivid picture of the casino atmosphere and its allure.
- Artist: The Rolling Stones
- Released: 1972
- Genre: Rock
Conclusion
There are numerous songs about gambling inspired by the personal experiences of artists or their friends who played casino games. Many of these songs draw comparisons between the behaviour of gamblers at the table and their approach to life. They typically tell about taking risks and not giving up, even when things don’t go well. So, you can pick your favourites from the list of top ten songs, create your gambling playlist and turn them on when you are willing to add the thrill while gambling.