Here's what it generally encompasses:
* Instrumental music: Typically, muzak features instrumental pieces with little to no vocals. This helps to avoid distracting listeners with lyrics.
* Repetitive and predictable: The music is often designed to be unobtrusive and blend into the background, so it tends to be repetitive and predictable.
* Uplifting and calming: Muzak aims to create a positive and calming atmosphere, usually avoiding any overly emotional or jarring music.
* Specifically designed for certain environments: Depending on the location, the music might be tailored for specific moods, such as focus and productivity in offices, or relaxation in waiting rooms.
Over time, the term "Muzak" has become a generic term for any background music, even if it's not specifically created by the Muzak company.
However, some people use "Muzak" in a derogatory way, implying:
* Bland and uninspired music: This is because the emphasis on being unobtrusive can lead to the music being perceived as lacking creativity.
* A tool for manipulation: Some critics argue that muzak is used to manipulate people's emotions and behavior, for example, by making them spend more time in stores.
In summary, "Muzak" refers to a type of background music with specific characteristics, but it can also be used as a broader term for any background music, or even as a derogatory term for bland and manipulative music.