By Mitch Rice
Gambling is a universal experience, whether you enjoy a flutter on the horses, or a few rounds of Poker at your favourite online casino. As such, of course there are so many different songs about gambling and how people enjoy it. Here are five of the most famous gambling songs, and why you should add them to your playlists today.
Easy Money – Billy Joel
This track by rock and roll legend Billy Joel was included in his 1983 album An Innocent Man. The lyrics talk about all kinds of gamblers out there, such as those who are at the track at racing bookies, those who play slot machines, and more. If you are putting together a gambling playlist, this is a must-have to have on there.
The song was included in the movie of the same name that came out in 1983 as well. Listeners will feel the song has a lot in common with James Brown tracks, something that won’t be a surprise as Joel wrote the album in the style of rock stars he admired as a teenager.
Easy Money was the first song that was written as it was initially written for the movie, and that helped kickstart the creation of the album. As such, it can be thanked for creating one of the best albums Joel ever put out.
The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
When you think of songs about gambling, this is likely the song that you think of. The song is about a gambler on a train, who offers Lyford advice through the narrator in exchange for whiskey. Once he is given his whiskey, he gives advice using poker metaphors throughout the song. Overall, the song says that it’s always worth knowing how to choose one’s battles, and when to back away.
The song was made famous by Kenny Rogers, who released it as a single in 1978. it was a smash hit that the time, it’s becoming a number one hit on the country charts, and then making its way to the pop charts which was something of a rarity at the time.
However, Rogers version was not the first version of the song to be released. It was written by Don Schlitz and shopped around Nashville. Many different artists recorded it, including Bobby B are, and the Johnny Cash.
Viva Las Vegas – Elvis Presley
This is another track that quickly comes to mind when you think of gambling. You will very likely see it played over panoramas of the Las Vegas strip on TV and in movies, so much so that the two are probably synonymous in many people’s minds.
The track was released in 1964, as a tie-in for the film of the same name. It peaked at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart.
One of the most interesting things about the song is that Presley never actually performed with it live, although it has become very popular and has been performed by many other artists throughout the years. For example, ZZ top released a cover in 1992 as part of their Greatest Hits album. Punk band The Dead Kennedys recorded their own version of the song for their debut album, with altered lyrics.
Waiting For An Alibi – Thin Lizzy
Thin Lizzy release this track in 1979, as the first single from their album Black Rose: A Rock Legend. An extended version of the track can be found on The Adventures of Thin Lizzy compilation LP from 1981, as well as Wild One: The Very Best Of Thin Lizzy in 1991.
The song documents the experiences of Valentino, who continues to gamble even though his luck has appeared to run out. The song was a metaphor for lead singer Phil Lynott’s heroin addiction, which sadly took his life in 1986.
Gamblin’ Man – Lonnie Donegan
This track is the oldest of these famous gambling songs, having been released in 1957. Recorded live at the London Palladium, it was released as a double A side along with Puttin’ On The Style. The track was written originally by Woody Guthrie, who recorded it between 1944 and 45, with the alternative title Roving Gambler.
This single was unique as it was the last UK number one to be released on the 78 RPM format only, as 7inch 45 rpm vinyl singles were now becoming the norm. On the single, Donegan is listed as a co writer along with Guthrie. The track has a unique skiffle rock and roll sound, that is thought to have influenced many artists after him.
These are just some of the most famous songs about gambling out there right now. They all have fascinating Histories, and of course are all perfect to add to a playlist for your next poker session or trip to the races.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
