Gambling has always been a common theme in music, especially rock. There are a host of classic rock songs which are based on the theme of gambling.
Now, this doesn’t mean that when you enter a casino they will be playing rock music, quite the contrary. However, the world of gambling tends to blend perfectly with the common themes found in rock music.
They also demonstrate the ability of music to tell stories and capture emotions. The theme of gambling is malleable and a perfect medium to explore the emotions of life through music, detailing the good and bad that come with it.
There are a number of songs in which this is the case, here are three of the best examples.
Ace of Spades – Motorhead
Released in 1980, this song is a fast-paced track that explains the nature of gambling in a realistic manner. The lyrics reference various card games, including blackjack and poker. The song has become one of Motorhead’s most famous and a fan favourite. It has been covered by several other bands, including the band Stone Sour.
To this day, ‘Ace of Spades’ is on one of Motorhead’s most recognisable tracks. Compared to the present day it paints a completely different picture from what we are used to. Nowadays, we have the luxury of accessing casino games whenever we want and can play a host of different games like live roulette online and even blackjack.
The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
Released in 1978, this song tells the story of a gambler giving advice to a young man who goes to the casino. The lyrics include lines like “You’ve got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away, and know when to run.” The song became an instant classic when it was released in the late 70s and has been covered by several artists since, including Johnny Cash.
The lyrics of the song are known all around the world and can be credited to not just gambling but the highs and lows of life.
Tumbling Dice – The Rolling Stones
This song, released in 1972, is about the popularity of gambling and expands on the variety of games that can be found in it. The lyrics reference different games than the other two including craps, which is where the term “tumbling dice” comes from. This song has cemented itself in classic rock history. It has been covered by several artists, including Linda Ronstadt and The Black Crowes.
If it sounds familiar it’s probably because you heard it in a movie or TV show like Goodfellas or The Sopranos.
These three rock songs showcase the power of music to tell stories through the themes of gambling. They have had an impact on pop culture and even now decades later, they are still popular. Whether you’re a fan of rock music or not, these songs are worth a listen for anyone interested in either music or gambling.