Poker is one of the world’s most popular games, and for good reason. It’s unpredictable, fun, and very cool. There’s nothing that compliments a game of poker more than a tumbler of whiskey over ice, quality cigars, and a good playlist. If you’re hosting a game for friends, then you’ll want to make sure that the playlist that you select is appropriate. Some prefer jazz, others prefer rock ‘n’ roll.
In this article, we will be exploring the perfect playlist for your next poker game, whether it’s professional or for friends:

Jazz

Jazz is a genre of music that compliments poker better than anything else. Whether you’re learning the basics of Texas Hold’em or playing a game against friends, jazz is guaranteed to get you in the mood. If you and your poker friends are fans of jazz, then here’s a playlist you can use:

  • Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong – Summertime
  • Miles Davis – So What
  • Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto – The Girl from Ipanema
  • Ray Charles – Georgia on My Mind
  • Duke Ellington – Take the A Train
  • Chet Baker – Almost Blue
  • Chet Baker – Time After Time
  • The Dave Brubeck Quarter – Take Five
Rock ‘n’ Roll

Some people don’t like jazz, which is perfectly fine [even though it’s the perfect poker music!] If you’re less into jazz, and more into rock ‘n’ roll then you need to choose your playlist carefully. Ideally, you should opt for soft rock instead of metal. Metal is far too exciting and loud and might distract the other players from the game at hand. Here’s a playlist for you to consider:

  • George Thorogood – I Drink Alone
  • Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama
  • Lynyrd Skynyrd – That Smell
  • Lynyrd Skynyrd – Simple Man
  • Jefferson Airplane – White Rabbit
  • Jefferson Airplane – Somebody to Love
  • Led Zeppelin – Stairway to Heaven
Hip Hop

Hip hop is another genre that can compliment a poker game, especially if you choose artists like Max B and French Montana. Older hip hop definitely works better with poker than newer hip hop, but it does entirely depend upon what you personally prefer. Here’s a hip hop playlist for your next poker game:

  • Max B – Frankie
  • Nas – If I Ruled The World
  • DJ Screw – Inside Lookin’ Out
  • Max B – Pop Me Up Again
  • French Montana – Shot Caller
  • Chinx Drugs – Dope House
  • Biggie Smalls – Juicy
  • Tupac – Friend Like Me
  • Tupac – Starin’ Through My Rearview
Soul

Another genre that compliments poker perfectly is Soul. It’s almost as good as jazz. Soul music is a very smooth genre that’s very easy to listen to. There are also lots of hits for you to choose from. Here’s a playlist to think about using for your next poker game:

  • Gil Scott-Heron – Angel Dust
  • Curtis Mayfield – Move On Up
  • William DeVaughn – Diamond In the Back
  • Bill Withers – Ain’t No Sunshine
  • Gil Scott-Heron – We Almost Lost Detroit
  • Al Green – Let’s Stay Together
  • The Delfonics – Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time?)
  • The Delfonics – La La Means I Love You
  • Sly & the Family Stone – Family Affair

If you’re planning a poker night, then this article should provide you with the perfect playlist. There are four to choose from, each masterfully curated to ensure that your night is enjoyable and fun.