In 2005, auto-tune aficionado T-Pain changed the modern-day love song with his hit, “I’m ‘n Luv (Wit a Stripper).” The R&B star crooned about a strip tease dancer unlike any other; making the song raunchy, fun, and surprisingly romantic in an obscure way. Since then, singers have seemed to take quite a liking to the sultry strip-tease figure in music. From Trey Songz to Bobby Valentino, it would appear that some of today’s stars spend more time at Spearmint Rhino than actually looking for love. Rappers like 2 Chainz and Nicki Minaj described the music industry's view on strippers quite clearly and simply on “I Luv Dem Strippers,” a record from the Atlanta rapper’s debut under his new name, B.O.A.T.S.
So why the sudden outpour of support for dancing vixens of the night? Did the good girl next door put tassels on and hit the pole? Well, originally these songs about strippers seemed to be written as a way for men to separate seductive songs dealing with forbidden lust from the traditional, wholesome love between an average man and a woman. After all, few genres have such a rich and textured variation of love songs like R&B.
Themes of seduction and passionate love are often encrypted in the very core of R&B, so it’s a natural progression into a more erotic territory that isn’t exactly surprising. After all, Billy Paul's Mr. & Mrs. Jones was far from the first couple to be up to no good, and they're most definitely not the last. This pursuit of desire and seduction without the limits of certain kinds of respect manifested into a wave of songs that addressed the gray areas of love. Those gray areas of love have thrived in the music that focuses on the stripper as the object of desire and affection.
These love letters to erotic dancers have more than hit the mainstream, and definitely sell by the millions. Why shouldn’t they? They’re lyrically freeing, expressive, and often the perfect jam to bump on the right kind of night.
What’s more interesting is the after-effects of these bedroom bangers. In our current diva age where we love to see Beyonce in a tight catsuit and Rihanna in, well, hardly anything, hyper-sexualism is often perceived as new-age feminism. When Beyonce hits the stage in her blue, sparkly catsuit, we’re quick to remind her that she runs the world. A female in control of the sexual power manipulated by her body is praised. In fact, what is arguably one of the year’s biggest water-cooler debates (the Miley Cyrus VMA twerk-fest) was a product of this kind of rationality. Miley vocally defended her choices and the way in which her body was displayed as an act of feminism.
What seems to have happened is that the new female depiction of sexualization as empowerment almost blended incoherently with these songs about strippers, and the result is a new era of songs with many “blurred lines” of sexual identity. (Pun intended.) The diva seems to now also be the stripper. And right behind the stripper is a man in a striped suit waiting to serenade her.
Have you ever wondered why so many songs are written specifically for strippers? From classic tracks like ‘Pour Some Sugar on Me’by Def Leppard to modern hits like ‘WAP’by Cardi B, music and stripping have been intertwined for decades. But why is that the case? Why do we make songs for strippers?
To understand this phenomenon, we need to take a look at the history of music in strip club culture. Music has always played an essential role in creating the right atmosphere in strip clubs. From piano players accompanying burlesque dancers in the 1920s to DJs spinning tunes for pole dancers today, music sets the tone for a successful strip show.
But it’s not just any type of music that works – it needs to be sexy, seductive, and enhance the overall experience. And that’s where songs for strippers come into play – they’re crafted specifically to cater to this unique audience and create an unforgettable performance.
The History of Music in Strip Club Culture
The use of music in strip clubs has a long and fascinating history, with certain genres and artists becoming synonymous with the culture. In the early 20th century, jazz music was popular in burlesque shows, which were the predecessors to modern-day strip clubs. The fast-paced beats and sensual melodies of jazz complemented the dancers’ movements perfectly.
As strip clubs became more mainstream in the 1970s and 80s, rock music became a popular genre for dancers to perform to. Bands like AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and Motley Crue provided high-energy tracks that pumped up both the dancers and the audience. This era also saw an increase in hip hop music being played in strip clubs, with artists like Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. creating songs specifically about strippers.
Today, there are no limits to what type of music can be played in a strip club. DJs curate playlists that range from classic rock to trap music, depending on the vibe they want to create for their customers. Regardless of genre, however, one thing remains constant: music is an integral part of strip club culture and helps create an immersive experience for both customers and performers alike.
The Evolution of Songs for Strippers
You might be surprised to learn how the music played in strip clubs has changed over time. In the past, songs for strippers were typically rock or heavy metal, with a focus on guitar riffs and aggressive beats. However, as strip club culture became more mainstream in the 1990s and early 2000s, the music evolved to include more hip hop and electronic dance music.
Today, songs for strippers are often chosen based on their ability to create a certain mood or atmosphere. Slow and sensual R&B tracks may be used during private dances, while high-energy EDM tunes may be played during stage shows. DJs also play a crucial role in creating a seamless flow of music throughout the night, carefully selecting tracks that will keep customers engaged and entertained.
Of course, not all strip clubs play the same kind of music. Some establishments cater to specific audiences and preferences, such as country western or Latin-inspired clubs. But overall, it’s clear that songs for strippers have come a long way from their early days as hard rock anthems.
Today’s strip club playlist is diverse and dynamic – just like the performers who bring it to life every night.
Conclusion
So, now you understand why we make songs for strippers. It’s not just about objectifying women or promoting sexual promiscuity.
It’s about creating an atmosphere that allows both the dancers and the patrons to escape from their everyday lives and enter a world of fantasy and excitement.
As music continues to evolve and strip club culture adapts with it, we can expect to see even more creative interpretations of songs for strippers.
Whether you’re a dancer or a patron, next time you hear a song in the strip club, take a moment to appreciate how it enhances your experience and adds to the overall vibe of this unique cultural phenomenon.
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