Let’s face it! Spa music has overstayed its welcome in hotel lobbies. Sure, it’s calm. Peaceful. Familiar. But it’s also predictable, and often forgettable. Today’s hotel guests expect more than just background noise. They want to feel something. They want an atmosphere that matches the personality of your hotel and makes them feel instantly welcome.

The Problem with Spa or Elevator Music

Spa music might work great in, well, a spa. But in a hotel lobby where people check in after a long journey, wait for a cab, grab a coffee, or take meetings, it can feel oddly out of place. Too slow, too sleepy, and lacking the warmth or energy your space needs.

Lobby music should soothe, but also spark a mood. Think warm, stylish, and subtly energizing. A gentle groove that makes guests feel like they’re in the right place, right from the start.

Why Music Matters More Than You Think

Music shapes emotions. It’s not just something people hear, it’s something they feel. A well-curated soundtrack can subtly enhance guest satisfaction, increase time spent in common areas, and even influence perceptions of your brand.

In fact, many top hotels today treat music as part of their sensory branding strategy. They don’t just choose a genre—they design a sonic identity that reflects their values and clientele.

What Should a Hotel Lobby Sound Like?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there is a right answer for your hotel.

A chic business hotel might go for modern lounge or low-key electronica. A family-friendly resort may prefer acoustic and upbeat global sounds. A heritage property could lean into contemporary jazz, soul, or ambient world music.

The key is to match the energy of the space with the personality of the brand. And that energy changes throughout the day.

Dayparting: The Secret Ingredient to Smart Hotel Playlists

One of the best ways to level up your lobby music is through dayparting—adjusting your playlist depending on the time of day.

Morning: Light, fresh, optimistic tunes to ease guests into the day.

Afternoon: Brighter tracks with a little rhythm to keep energy up.

Evening: Smooth, stylish sounds that invite relaxation and conversation.

Late night: Soft, ambient textures to calm and quiet the space.

Customized Music versus Pre-Set Channels

Avoid the trap of generic playlists or fixed radio-style services. They rarely reflect the uniqueness of your brand—and worse, guests might hear the same tracks at the mall or in a chain store.

Instead, use a curated music service that lets you shape the mood room by room, hour by hour. With Alenka, for instance, we help you design a soundscape tailored to your guest profile, brand story, and daily rhythms.

No copy-paste playlists. Just music that fits you.

Getting Started: A Quick Guide

1. Know your guests: Are they young couples? Business travelers? Families? Locals?

2. Define your vibe: Modern and vibrant? Elegant and understated? Playful and relaxed?

3. Use the space wisely: Your lobby music might differ from your restaurant, spa, or rooftop bar.

4. Think modular: Create multiple playlists that shift with time and foot traffic.

5. Partner up: Work with professionals who understand how music affects behavior and mood.

Music That Works as Hard as Your Staff

Great lobby music makes a quiet impact. It welcomes, comforts, and energizes without stealing attention. It helps guests transition from the outside world into your space. And best of all, they’ll feel the difference even if they don’t consciously notice it.

So yes, it’s time to retire the spa playlist. Your lobby, and your guests deserve better.

Let’s Create Your Hotel’s Signature Sound

At Alenka, we don’t believe in off-the-shelf playlists. We believe in crafting immersive, mood-perfect music for hotels that care about the details. Whether you run a boutique hotel, a luxury resort, or a stylish business hotel, we’ll help you shape the perfect musical welcome.