Gambling has existed since before human beings could write. Associated with luck, glitz, glamour, and many highs and lows, it is not surprising that this beloved pastime has inspired many songs. Some gambling songs praise, condemn, or explain it; others simply use it as a metaphor for love and life. Here is a look at five such songs you can add to your betting playlist:
“The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers
The Gambler is arguably the most popular gambling song of all time. Although often credited to legendary country music singer Kenny Rogers, it was written by Don Schlitz in 1976. Several artists, including Johnny Cash, released a version of the song, with only Rogers’ version gaining mainstream success. The song sees the singer receive advice from the eponymous gambler, an old man on a train, who exchanges poker metaphors with the singer for a “sip of his whisky.”
The Gambler is Rogers’ most popular and enduring release, with over 800,000 digital copies sold. In 2018, the Library of Congress elected to preserve it in the National Recording Registry for its “cultural, historical, and aesthetic” significance.
“Tumbling Dice” by Rolling Stone
Released in 1972 as part of the Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main St. album, Tumbling Dice is a song about a gambler with relationship problems. The song is noted for its unique groove and masterful composition. Mick Jagger finished the lyrics after discussing gambling with a housekeeper in LA. The housekeeper loved to play the kind of dice games you would find at a betway casino today and was initially reluctant to discuss it. When she did, she got the ball rolling on a song that would become a quick hit.
“Poker Face” by Lady Gaga
Poker Face is one of those songs that isn’t really about gambling, but the metaphors are so strong and the impact so big you cannot ignore it. Released by pop powerhouse Lady Gaga in 2008, it uses the famous poker face as a metaphor for bisexuality. Gaga maintained that the song was inspired by gambling, particularly poker, which she believed involved hiding your true intentions. Poker Face sold over 9.8 million copies in its first year and was number 1 in 20 countries.
“Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley
In 2002, Las Vegas attempted to make Elvis Presley’s Viva Las Vegas the city’s official song. Although talks fell through, it is clear how monumental the song is to the gambling world. Elvis recorded it in 1964, bringing to life the lyrical work of Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. Memorable lines from the song include “Oh there’s blackjack and poker and the roulette wheel, a fortune won and lost on every deal” and “Lady luck please let the dice stay hot.”
“When You’re Hot, You’re Hot” by Jerry Reed
Jerry Reed won a Grammy for When You’re Hot, You’re Hot. Released in 1971, the song details the singer’s escapades from riding a winning streak in an illegal game of craps to ending up in jail put there by a judge he owes money to. It is a fun, offbeat song to listen to while playing a round of craps on Betway.
Wrapping Up
Having inspired countless songs, poems, and movies, gambling has an unmistakable influence on the world. This is why today its a multi-billion-dollar industry with millions of dedicated fans. And what better way to score your gambling experience than with good music? Whether you enjoy the occasional trip to Las Vegas or a round of online betting on Betway, you should enjoy this playlist.