Modern cocktail hour music can be a great way to keep the vibe going while you're mingling and having fun. Here are some modern artists and songs that might fit the bill:
1. Indie Folk:
* The Lumineers - "Ho Hey"
* Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - "Home"
* Mumford & Sons - "Little Lion Man"
2. Pop-Rock:
* Walk the Moon - "Shut Up and Dance"
* American Authors - "Best Day of the Year"
* The 1975 - "Girls"
3. Electro-Pop:
* Capital Cities - "Safe and Sound"
* Passion Pit - "Take a Walk"
* CHVRCHES - "The Mother We Share"
4. Jazz-Influenced:
* Jamie Cullum - "These Are the Days"
* Michael Bublé - "Everything"
* Peter Cincotti - "Goodbye for Now"
5. Acoustic-Folk:
* The Head and the Heart - "Shake"
* First Aid Kit - "Stay Gold"
* Vance Joy - "Riptide"
These are just a few examples, but you can also consider modern hits from artists like:
* Hozier
* James Bay
* Sam Smith
* Shawn Mendes
* The Weeknd
Keep in mind that the key to creating a great cocktail hour playlist is to choose songs that are upbeat and fun, yet not too loud or overwhelming. You want your guests to be able to carry on conversations while still enjoying the music!
Cocktail hour music, also known as lounge music or easy listening, is a genre that originated in the mid-20th century to provide background music for social gatherings and events. The term "cocktail hour" refers to the period of time when guests gather for appetizers and drinks before a meal or other event.
Cocktail hour music typically features mellow, sophisticated sounds that create a relaxing and convivial atmosphere. The genre is characterized by:
1. Mellow tempo: Cocktail hour music usually has a slow to moderate pace, often between 100-120 beats per minute.
2. Instrumental focus: Piano, guitar, saxophone, and other acoustic instruments are common in cocktail hour music, often accompanied by subtle percussion elements like drums or congas.
3. Jazz influence: Cocktail hour music draws from various jazz styles, such as smooth jazz, Latin jazz, and bossa nova, with a focus on melodic improvisation and harmonious arrangements.
4. Vocal minimalism: While some cocktail hour songs may feature vocals, the emphasis is often on instrumental performances or soft, spoken-word intros.
5. Sophisticated atmosphere: The overall tone of cocktail hour music is intended to evoke a sense of refinement and elegance, making it suitable for upscale events like wine tastings, art gallery openings, or luxury product launches.
Some notable artists associated with the cocktail hour music genre include:
* Brian Culbertson
* Kenny G
* George Benson
* Dave Koz
* Chris Botti
* Peter White
* Eumir Deodato
Cocktail hour music is often used in various settings, such as:
1. Upscale events and parties
2. Restaurants and bars with a sophisticated atmosphere
3. Hotel lobbies and spas
4. Wedding receptions and corporate events
5. Film and television soundtracks (to create a relaxed or nostalgic ambiance)
The genre's popularity has waxed and waned over the years, but it remains a staple in many upscale settings, providing a unique blend of relaxation and sophistication for those who appreciate its mellow charm.
Upbeat cocktail hour music is all about setting the tone for a lively and energetic gathering. Here are some genres, playlists, and specific song suggestions to get you started:
**Jazz & Swing**
* Classic jazz standards like "Fly Me to the Moon" or "The Way You Look Tonight"
* Upbeat swing tunes like "In the Mood" by Glenn Miller or "Sing, Sing, Sing" by Benny Goodman
* Contemporary jazz artists like Brian Culbertson, Chris Botti, or Diana Krall
**Latin & Tropical**
* Salsa music by artists like Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, or Marc Anthony
* Latin pop hits like "Hips Don't Lie" by Shakira or "Mi Gente" by J Balvin and Willy William
* Reggaeton beats from Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, or J Alvarez
**Pop & Rock**
* Upbeat indie rock tracks like "Best Day of the Week" by The 1975 or "Shut Up and Dance" by Walk the Moon
* Classic pop hits like "I Want It That Way" by the Backstreet Boys or "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake
* Contemporary pop artists like Ariana Grande, Katy Perry, or Taylor Swift
**Funk & Disco**
* Classic disco tracks like "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees or "Le Freak" by Chic
* Funky tunes from artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Kool & The Gang, or Daft Punk
* Contemporary funk and disco-inspired music from artists like Chromeo, Daft Punk, or The Black Keys
**Playlists**
* Create a playlist with a mix of genres to cater to different tastes.
* Use platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music to find pre-curated playlists for cocktail hours or party events.
* Some popular playlist options include "Cocktail Hour", "Upbeat Cocktail Party", or "Party Jazz".
Remember to keep the volume at a comfortable level, allowing your guests to easily converse while still enjoying the music. You can also consider hiring a live band or DJ to create a unique and memorable experience for your gathering.
A wedding cocktail hour playlist for 2024!
To create a great playlist, you'll want to consider the style and tone of your wedding, as well as the tastes of your guests. Here are some popular genres and songs that might be suitable for a modern wedding cocktail hour:
**Pop & Indie:**
1. Taylor Swift - "Shake It Off"
2. The Lumineers - "Ho Hey"
3. Ed Sheeran - "Perfect"
4. Kacey Musgraves - "Slow Burn"
5. Vampire Weekend - "A-Punk"
6. Arctic Monkeys - "Do I Wanna Know?"
7. Florence + The Machine - "Dog Days Are Over"
8. Hozier - "Take Me to Church"
9. Lorde - "Green Light"
10. Billie Eilish - "Bad Guy"
**Retro & Classic:**
1. Michael Jackson - "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"
2. Prince - "Kiss"
3. Stevie Wonder - "Sir Duke"
4. The Beatles - "Here Comes the Sun"
5. Fleetwood Mac - "Go Your Own Way"
6. Earth, Wind & Fire - "September"
7. Chic - "Le Freak"
8. The Commodores - "Brick House"
9. The Jackson 5 - "I Want You Back"
10. Donna Summer - "Love to Love Ya Baby"
**Jazz & Swing:**
1. Frank Sinatra - "Fly Me to the Moon"
2. Dean Martin - "Ain't That a Kick in the Head"
3. Ella Fitzgerald - "Misty Blue"
4. Louis Armstrong - "What a Wonderful World"
5. Duke Ellington - "Take the 'A' Train"
6. Count Basie - "April in Paris"
7. Benny Goodman - "Sing, Sing, Sing"
8. Nat King Cole - "Unforgettable"
9. Sammy Davis Jr. - "Candy Man"
10. Harry Connick Jr. - "It's On"
**Hip-Hop & R&B:**
1. Beyoncé - "Love on Top"
2. Bruno Mars - "Uptown Funk" (ft. Mark Ronson)
3. Kendrick Lamar - "Alright"
4. The Weeknd - "Can't Feel My Face"
5. Drake - "God's Plan"
6. Rihanna - "Work" (ft. Drake)
7. Cardi B - "Bodak Yellow"
8. Post Malone - "Psycho" (ft. Ty Dolla Sign)
9. Khalid - "Talk"
10. Anderson .Paak - "Come Down"
**Country & Folk:**
1. Luke Bryan - "Country Girl (Shake It for Me)"
2. Carrie Underwood - "Before He Cheats"
3. Zac Brown Band - "Chicken Fried"
4. Kacey Musgraves - "Follow Your Arrow"
5. Chris Stapleton - "Traveller"
6. Maren Morris - "The Middle" (with Zedd & Grey)
7. Eric Church - "Springsteen"
8. Dierks Bentley - "Drunk on a Plane"
9. Florida Georgia Line - "Cruise" (ft. Nelly)
10. Brandi Carlile - "The Joke"
Remember to keep your playlist diverse and consider the age range of your guests. You can also include special songs for the wedding party, such as a father-daughter or mother-son dance.
Happy mixing!
Oldies cocktail hour music is a great choice!
For those who may not know, "oldies" refers to popular music from the 1950s and early 1960s, characterized by genres like doo-wop, rockabilly, and early rock 'n' roll. This era saw the rise of iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, and many more.
Cocktail hour music typically features a mix of upbeat and mellow tunes to create a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. Here are some classic oldies tracks that would be perfect for cocktail hour:
1. "Great Balls of Fire" by Jerry Lee Lewis - A high-energy rocker with a dash of piano-driven flair.
2. "Blueberry Hill" by Fats Domino - A fun, upbeat tune with a memorable chorus and a hint of New Orleans flavor.
3. "Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry - A classic rock 'n' roll anthem with a killer guitar riff and a nod to the pioneers of rock music.
4. "La Bamba" by Ritchie Valens - A Latin-tinged doo-wop track that's sure to get people dancing.
5. "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley and His Comets - The song that helped popularize rock 'n' roll, with a catchy beat and a dash of nostalgia.
6. "Earth Angel" by The Penguins - A smooth, harmony-rich doo-wop track that's perfect for a more mellow cocktail hour vibe.
7. "Shout!" by The Isley Brothers - A funky, upbeat track with a strong vocal performance and a hint of soul.
8. "At the Hop" by Danny & the Juniors - Another classic rock 'n' roll tune with a catchy chorus and a nod to the early days of rock music.
These songs are just a taste of what oldies cocktail hour music has to offer. You can also consider adding some iconic crooners like Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, or Tony Bennett to create a more sophisticated atmosphere. Whatever your style, there's an oldie that's sure to bring the party!
Cocktail hour music for a wedding - the perfect blend of sophistication and fun to set the tone for your special day!
Here are some timeless and modern suggestions for the best cocktail hour music at a wedding:
**Timeless Classics:**
1. Jazz standards: Think Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, or Duke Ellington.
2. Classic crooners: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Bing Crosby are always a hit.
3. Swing and big band: Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Artie Shaw get the party started.
**Modern Favorites:**
1. Indie-folk: Artists like Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers, or Edward Sharpe are perfect for a casual, rustic wedding.
2. Acoustic sets: James Bay, Hozier, or John Mayer's acoustic tracks create a warm atmosphere.
3. Upbeat pop: Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, or Pharrell Williams get the crowd moving.
**Cocktail Hour Playlists:**
1. **Vintage Vibes:** Mix classic jazz and crooners with some modern indie-folk for a sophisticated vibe.
2. **Retro Revival:** Combine 60s and 70s rock with modern pop and electronic elements for a fun, energetic atmosphere.
3. **Sophisticated Soiree:** Focus on smooth jazz, lounge music, and contemporary R&B for a refined cocktail hour.
**Tips for Creating the Perfect Playlist:**
1. Keep it eclectic: Mix genres and eras to cater to different tastes and ages.
2. Vary the tempo: Include fast-paced tracks for dancing and slower songs for mingling.
3. Consider your wedding style: Match your playlist to your venue, theme, or dress code for a cohesive look.
4. Make it personal: Include special songs that mean something to you and your partner.
Remember, the goal is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for an unforgettable celebration!
Cocktail hour music for a wedding should be elegant, sophisticated, and perhaps a bit nostalgic. Here are some instrumental suggestions that would fit the bill:
1. **Jazz Standards**: Instrumental versions of jazz classics like "Moon River," "The Way You Look Tonight," or "Fly Me to the Moon" can create a sophisticated atmosphere.
2. **Acoustic Guitar**: Soft, mellow acoustic guitar pieces like "River Flows in You" by Yiruma or "Landslide" by Cat Stevens can provide a warm and intimate ambiance.
3. **Piano Pieces**: Beautiful piano arrangements of popular songs like "A Thousand Years," "Perfect," or "Marry Me" (from the movie Mamma Mia!) can add a touch of romance to your cocktail hour.
4. **Classical Music**: Instrumental classical pieces like Chopin's Nocturnes, Debussy's Clair de Lune, or Vivaldi's Four Seasons can create a refined and elegant atmosphere.
5. **Instrumental Pop Covers**: Soft instrumental versions of popular pop songs like "Can't Help Falling in Love," "Unchained Melody," or "I Choose You" (by Sara Bareilles) can be a great way to get your guests in the mood for the wedding celebration.
Some specific song suggestions for cocktail hour music are:
* Michael Bublé - "Everything"
* Josh Groban - "Awake"
* Norah Jones - "Come Away With Me"
* John Mayer - "I Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You)"
* The Piano Guys - "A Thousand Years" or "Titanium"
Remember to choose songs that reflect the style and tone of your wedding, and that will appeal to a wide range of ages and musical tastes.
Country music has a rich tradition of amazing songs for cocktails and country parties. Here are some popular ones:
1. **"Tequila Sunrise"** by Eagles - A classic country-rock song that's perfect for a morning-after (or afternoon) toast.
2. **"Whiskey River"** by Willie Nelson - A honky-tonk anthem that's all about letting loose and having a good time with friends over a whiskey or two.
3. **"Faded Love"** by Patsy Cline - A beautiful, melancholic tune that's great for sipping on a romantic evening cocktail.
4. **"Red Solo Cup"** by Toby Keith - A fun, upbeat party song that's all about having a good time and enjoying the simple things in life (like a cold beer).
5. **"Chattahoochee"** by Alan Jackson - A nostalgic country song that's perfect for a backyard barbecue or outdoor gathering.
6. **"It's Five O'Clock Somewhere"** by Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson - A tropical, island-inspired anthem that's great for a pre-game (or after-game) cocktail hour.
7. **"Country Girl (Shake It for Me)"** by Luke Bryan - A high-energy party song that's sure to get everyone dancing and having a good time.
8. **"Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)"** by Big & Rich - Another fun, country-rock anthem that's perfect for a rowdy country party.
9. **"Love in the First Degree"** by Dolly Parton - A sweet, romantic song that's great for sipping on a warm evening with someone special.
10. **"Boots On"** by Randy Houser - A fun, upbeat country song that's all about letting loose and having a good time with friends.
These are just a few examples of the many amazing country songs perfect for cocktail hour or a country-themed party. Grab your favorite drink (or two), put on your cowboy boots, and get ready to kick back and enjoy some great music!