Do you ever notice the music playing when you enter a store? No? Often it is very difficult to point out. It is similar to the music you listen to, but it is not the same. The music played in stores is changed to be more relaxing and to give you more mental energy. This style of music is called “elevator music.”

    Elevator music is also referred to as Muzak. Muzak is very commonly listened to in the USA. About 1/3 of Americans will listen to Muzak for about 15 minutes a day in order to relax themselves. The music is played and contains short pauses. The most common time to hear elevator music played is between ten and eleven in the morning, and three to four in the afternoon. This is when most people are the most tired and could use the extra energy.

    Elevator music is often played in public places because it is designed to make people feel less lonely and refreshes their brain. It has been proven that Muzak does what it is supposed to do. Studies have shown that tired office workers have more energy when Muzak is played in the background of the office. In addition, factory workers produce 13% more and shoppers buy 38% more groceries in a supermarket when listening to Muzak.

Some people do not like Muzak. They say it's boring to hear the same songs all the time, but other people enjoy hearing Muzak in public places. They say it helps them relax and feel calm. Often you may recognize the songs being played. That is because many of the songs have been bought from the musicians or songwriters. Some of them do not like their music to be used for Muzak but others are happy when their songs are chosen. The top musicians that allow their music to turn into Muzak music can make up to 4 million US dollars a year. One way to another, Muzak affects everyone.