Easy listening facts for kids

Easy listening is a type of popular music that was very popular from the 1950s to the 1970s. It was also a common kind of music played on the radio. This music is often called "mood music" because it aims to create a calm or pleasant feeling.

It includes songs that are mostly instrumental (meaning no singing). It also features famous old songs, popular hits, and even instrumental versions of some rock songs. Most easy listening music came from before the rock and roll era, especially from the 1940s and 1950s.

Easy listening is sometimes confused with lounge music. While both were played in similar places, easy listening was made for people to actively listen to and enjoy. Lounge music was often more for background sound.

What is Easy Listening Music?

Easy listening music often uses many string instruments, like violins and cellos. This is why it's sometimes called "with strings." String instruments were popular in music during the 1930s. They were also a big part of the music in old Hollywood movies.

In the 1940s and 1950s, strings started appearing more in jazz and other popular music. For example, famous singers like Frank Sinatra and Dinah Washington used strings in their songs. By the 1950s, strings became a key part of the new easy listening style.

Jackie Gleason, a famous musician in this style, once said his goal was to make "musical wallpaper." This meant the music should not be too loud or distracting. Instead, it should help create a nice, relaxed feeling.

Famous Easy Listening Singers

Many popular singers from the early 1900s became known for easy listening music. These singers often performed well-known songs called "standards."

Some of the most famous easy listening singers include:

• Frank Sinatra
• Bing Crosby
• Dean Martin
• Patti Page
• Tony Bennett
• Nat King Cole
• Rosemary Clooney
• Doris Day
• Perry Como
• Engelbert Humperdinck
• The Carpenters

In the early 1990s, there was a new interest in lounge music, which is related to easy listening. Bands like Pink Martini became popular. This style was very different from the grunge music that was popular at the same time.

See also