Event and mobile DJs need a variety of go to playlists. Themed events include – Sweet 16s (mainly in the US but increasingly relevant worldwide), 18th, 21st, engagement, hen or stag, wedding, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th, divorce and many many more! Or the event itself can have a theme, we’ve played at “festival” themed corporate parties and even a Harry Potter one (don’t ask), as well asa casino-themed party that brings some of that Las Vegas glitz to your office summer party in Scranton or Slough. With the music being the a key part of any party, it’s vital to get it right and plan ahead!
Playlist building tips and extra entertainment
Both Spotify or Apple Music offer casino-themed pre-built playlists that you can tweak. We like this one. Vocals can get very distracting at the table, so mixing in instrumentals can help keep the music as a subtle backdrop rather than the center of attention. That’s not just a stylish choice. Studies show that music can affect guest focus, excitement and relaxation levels due to its psychological impact on mood and behavior.
Sure the decor and activities including blackjack tables and poker chips set the scene, but the key to creating a great atmosphere will be the music. The right playlist can level up your event from a casual gathering to a full-blown Monte Carlo event. Whether you are hosting a swanky black-tie affair, vintage evening or even a lively Vegas-style bash, the music playlist is what will keep guests engaged and entertained all night, ready to place their bets and roll the dice (we’d advise “play money” only – you don’t want any of your guests losing their shirt)
Set the tone – Your very own party style
Not every casino-themed party is the same, and they shouldn’t be! Your playlist should reflect the mood you’re trying to create. Perhaps a glamorous Vegas night with glitzy, high-energy music with bright lights and bold beats or maybe a casual poker night with chill tunes that don’t distract from the game?
When you’ve determined the theme, you can tailor your playlist. Below are some specific songs to match the feel you’re trying to capture in your night.
Start with the classics – Iconic casino anthems
Famous, popular songs that are synonymous with casinos, rolling dice and high-stakes entertainment:
- “Viva Las Vegas” – Elvis Presley. A great opener or midway highlight, this song is practically the national anthem of casino culture.
- “Luck Be a Lady” – Frank Sinatra. Pure Rat Pack magic, familiar, smooth and sophisticated.
- “Poker Face” – Lady Gaga. A modern energetic tune and clear nod to bluffing at the table.
- “Ace of Spades” – Motörhead. High-energy rock for edgier casino vibes.
Lounge and jazz music for the most sophisticated elements of your party
Have a baccarat table? If your casino night leans more towards the high end then offering smooth and timeless tunes will supplement the action at the table.
- “Feeling Good” – Michael Bublé
- “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” – Dean Martin (Might be a time to stop if this resonates with your gambling though!)
- “I Put a Spell on You” – Nina Simone
- “At Last” – Etta James
- “Let’s Get Lost” – Chet Baker
These songs work really well for the first hour of an event or in any chill zone away from the gaming tables.
Energetic pop and dance
Once the chips are down and drinks are poured, you can safely dial up the energy on your playlist, bringing in modern hits to provide dance music and party vibes while keeping that casino edge:
- “24K Magic” – Bruno Mars
- “Don’t Start Now” – Dua Lipa
- “Get Lucky” – Daft Punk
- “Valerie” – Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling” – Justin Timberlake
Casino game-themed songs
Want to get playful with your playlist? Add songs that relate directly to the casino experience unfolding in your home:
- “Queen of Hearts” – Juice Newton. Great for blackjack.
- “Roll the Dice” – Steve Aoki. EDM energy for craps players and fans alike.
- “Desperado” – Rihanna
- “Casino Royale Theme” – David Arnold. Brings in that James Bond feeling.
- “Waking Up in Vegas” – Katy Perry. Adds party momentum.
- The Gambler – Kenny Rodgers, with a remix by Vavo
Chill mix
Every event has to wind down. As the event winds down, you’ll want to ease your audience into a more relaxed feel. A cool-down playlist removes a sudden stop and break in the music and suggests it is nearly time to go home. Suggested tracks include:
- “Come Away with Me” – Norah Jones
- “Gravity” – John Mayer
- “Young and Beautiful” – Lana Del Rey
- “The Scientist” – Coldplay
- “Stay with Me” – Sam Smith
It is worth taking a moment to browse through brand new casino sites to see the types of background music and lobby tunes designed specifically to enhance the mood of online gambling. These can be a great reference point for your own event’s soundtrack.
