Elevator “Music” Ain’t What It Used to Be

At roughly the same time that skyscrapers were springing up all over New York, an army general was developing an idea to transmit music over wires. Radio was in its infancy, so the idea had some merit. By the time the kinks in the wire were worked out, so to speak, radio had begun to dominate. General Squier didn’t lament his fate, however. He changed gears and sold the idea to anyone who wanted piped in music. Originally, it was tinny and hollow sounding. In the 21st century, however, it’s changed to the point that it sounds like any commercially available CD. The best part is: Muzak comes with all applicable licensing already settled. Businesses don’t need to pay twice.