If you are hosting a tiki party or want to feel as relaxed as if you were on a tropical island, try Tiki music. Tiki music began as part of the tiki craze of the mid 1950s, which popularized other aspects of Polynesian or island culture. Other elements that became popular in America were tiki statues, grass skirts, and hula girls, among other motifs.
This sub genre first gained popularity outside tiki restaurants in the 1960’s in California, where it grew out of surf culture. Today, tiki music is very popular, and not just for themed restaurants. Tiki music has also been described as “exotica lounge music” When listening to this music, you can picture yourself on the beach, with the waves lapping gently at the shore, a tropical drink in your hand.
Although tiki music is often associated with a kitschy and somewhat cheesy environment because it was played in popular restaurants like Trader Vic’s and Don the Beachcomber’s, the tiki music movement was actually much more sophisticated than that. The inspiration for these sounds came from soldiers returning from the South Pacific after World War II, as well as Hawaii’s statehood in 1959.
Popular tiki artists include Les Baxter, Martin Denny, Arthur Lyman, and Yma Sumc. The tiki genre is a fusion of jazz, jungle, and a Caribbean drum beat. Perhaps it is known as Exotica because it can instantly transport your mind to an exotic beach. With titles like “Taboo”, “Forbidden Sounds”, “Heat”, and “Bali Hai”, tiki music suggests an unknown and somewhat mystical, far away culture. “Quiet Village,” “Enchanted Sea,” and “Hawaiian Sunset,” among other popular tiki titles, suggest the serenity of an island paradise.
One popular name for the tiki genre, “exotica”, is drawn from the name of a 1947 Martin Denny album. In fact, Martin Denny is often seen as the father of exotica music. This particular type of music was popular during the original tiki craze, and as characterized by tribal and Latin rhythms set against a tropical soundscape.
Arthur Lyman, perhaps the second most popular tiki artist, got his start playing the vibraphone with Martin Denny. His style includes bird calls, bells, and other sounds meant to simulate an island environment.
Tiki artist Les Baxter was actually born in Texas. His music has been sampled by P. Diddy and The Beastie Boys. He composed many songs for movies and television, and also worked with Nat King Cole, Bob Hope, and others. He is also well known for Jungle exotica; this genre, when compared to tiki exotica, includes more natural or jungle inspired sounds; it is mainly a Hollywood creation stemming from Tarzan and similar movies.
Today, tiki music is experiencing a revival. New tiki bars are even opening, replacing their kitschy or campy predecessors. As expected, the rising popularity of other tiki elements has led to a newfound popularity of tiki music.
If you are having a tiki party this summer, consider picking up a few tiki CDs to complete the mood. The classic sounds of tiki music are understandably popular in tiki bars, decorated by bamboo and dried grass as well as other tiki or island motifs. This unusual blend of music is sure to add to the fun and relaxing atmosphere.
Author Resource:
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