Jukebox Conversations

On many a slow Wednesday, Dave and I have talked about the jukebox. For all that it's just one part of the bar, it's an important one that can completely change the atmosphere and tone of an evening. Some people walk up to pick songs and I feel safe that they'll pick something good/appropriate. Our bar is well suited to music that's got a somewhat old school feel - classic rock, some not-so-steel guitar country, some oldies, a bit of soul, and the odd Irish/Celtic song are all good fits. Then we have those idiots who, at eleven thirty on a Friday night, decide it's time for Rammstein (Ah, the wonders of the new electronic jukebox). Good grief.

Dave: It's good to play something mellow at the end of the night. It helps get people in a going-home mood.

Some music selections surprise me, because sometimes somebody looks the type to play Beastie Boys and instead they pick some Dire Straits. While you can always guess, you just never know. You watch somebody go over to the jukebox and a little while later, say, Madonna starts playing.

Me: Hey Donny, did you pick the Madonna?
Donny: Not me. I think it was those guys. Too bad they didn't play Like a Virgin. I'd dance.

Donny: Hey Ali, did you pick this one? (Some annoying pop song sung by an undoubtedly blonde chick)
Me: No way. Does it really seem like something I'd pick?
Donny: I thought maybe.
Me: Nah. Now, if you hear some Dropkick Murphys or The Church then it was probably me.

Julia: You usually have pretty good taste in music. Except for that country garbage.
Me: You know, I was thinking about putting on some Blake Shelton or Joe Nichols, but for your sake I didn't.
Julia: Thanks.

(Whilst AC/DC is playing) Julia: Ugh, who picked this butt rock?

It's always interesting to see what comes out when you've spent a lot of Saturday nights watching people pick out music. You get to know what people like and get to think about which co-workers' CD collections you might like to listen to. Of all the staff, Dave is the one whose taste is the most similar to mine. Now, in the spirit of re-creating the bar experience for you, I've lately added some music to the sidebar. All of the songs I've stuck on The Jukebox have been played at the bar, and most of them get played fairly regularly. I figure I'll update it from time to time, but I make no promises as to how often. While I've tried to include a wide variety, I must admit that I'm exerting some editorial control and only including those I like (or at least can tolerate) and Dave's picks are more represented than those of my other coworkers. I know it's not entirely democratic. But that's why it's my blog, isn't it?

And finally, with some parting words that are often hollered out by/at regulars and staff:
Get AWAY from the jukebox!