Today, we’re used to the idea of background music playing everywhere — in shops, restaurants, offices, gyms. But have you ever wondered where this practice originated and why it has become so important for modern businesses?
The Beginning of Muzak: The Birth of Background Music
Few people know that at the core of the background music idea stands a man whose vision went far beyond his time — Major George Squier, an American officer, pilot, scientist, and inventor.
In 1922, he patented a method for transmitting music over electrical lines — long before radio became a mass medium. His ambition was revolutionary for its time: to deliver music directly into people’s homes via the electric grid — a concept we could call an early form of streaming, similar to modern services like Spotify.
Squier believed people would pay a monthly fee to listen to music at home, without the need for phonographs or expensive radio stations. Unfortunately, the technology and the market were not ready for such a concept. His project for in-home music distribution failed to gain traction.
After this setback, Squier shifted the direction of his idea and focused on a more practical application of the technology — not for private homes, but for public and commercial spaces. Thus, in 1934, Muzak Holdings LLC was founded, a company that began providing background music in hotels, restaurants, and elevators.
The term Muzak was derived from a combination of the word “music” and the then-popular brand “Kodak” — a fusion that symbolized a modern, tech-driven service.
This commercial reorientation turned out to be extremely successful. Music was no longer just entertainment — it became a tool for creating ambiance and shaping the customer experience. This was the birth of what we now know as “Muzak” — background music designed to influence subtly, yet effectively.
A Musical Background That Influences Behavior
As early as the 1940s, the concept of Stimulus Progression emerged — a scientifically developed method of music selection aimed at boosting productivity and mood. Music was played at specific intervals with a gradual increase in tempo to stimulate activity. This idea quickly spread across offices and factories.
By the 1950s and 60s, Muzak had become the standard for corporate soundscaping. In the U.S., there was hardly an office or store without carefully selected background music subtly influencing the behavior of employees and customers.
From Elevator Music to Marketing Tool
Over time, however, the public began associating the term Muzak with bland, boring elevator music. This led to criticism and a need for evolution.
In the 1980s and 90s, a new era began — with richer playlists, tailored to different types of businesses and customers.
Today, the concept of Muzak is far removed from what it once was. Background music is no longer just sound — it’s part of marketing, a means of building brand identity, and creating an emotional connection with the customer.
The Modern Meaning of Background Music
In the digital age, background music is now personalized, intelligently curated, and often includes the ability to broadcast advertising messages. Companies like Epidemic Sound offer modern solutions — with contemporary music tailored to today’s business needs, easy to license, and fully legal for use in commercial spaces.
At the same time, traditional organizations like Muzikautor and PROPHON offer licenses for using popular songs, which also have their place in strategic sound design.
Music Today: Emotion, Identity, Impact
Whether it’s gentle instrumental music or modern hits, the right background music is an invisible partner to your business.
It doesn’t just fill the space — it creates atmosphere, influences mood, and subtly guides your clients toward action.
Trust Studio Impress for Your Perfect Musical Atmosphere
At Studio Impress, we believe every space deserves its own unique sound. We offer complete background music solutions tailored to your needs and identity — from selecting the right license (Muzikautor and PROPHON or Epidemic Sound) to equipment delivery, playlist creation, and professional support.
Let’s create an atmosphere together that inspires your clients and works in favor of your business.
Contact us today and take the first step toward music that speaks for your brand.