The Best Music to Play in a Barbershop (And Why It Matters)
- Gali Khik
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10
When you enter a barbershop, it's more than just a haircut—it's an experience. One of the easily missed elements of that experience is the background music. At New York Master Barbers in Franklin Square, NY, we understand that the correct playlist can make a good haircut become a memorable moment. Let's discuss why music is such an essential component in barbershops, which genres work best, and how it affects mood and rapport with customers.
Why Music Belongs in Every Barbershop
Barbershops have always been more than places to get cleaned up—they're social hubs, cultural touchpoints, and conversation starters. Playing the right music supports this environment in several ways:
1. Sets the Vibe
Music controls the mood the second a client walks in. No matter if you are playing mellow jazz, classic hip-hop, or modern R&B, the audio sets a subliminal tone. A calming playlist relaxes clients, while upbeat tracks energize the space.
2. Encourages Conversation
Music is generally an icebreaker. Clients will comment on a song, remember a favorite track, or even bond on the grounds of common musical taste. In a business like New York Master Barbers, where community and rapport mean a lot to us, such conversation turns one-time clients into return customers.
3. Enhances Perceived Value
Appropriate background music gives a sense of professionalism and attention to detail. It sends the message to customers you're invested in the overall experience—not merely the haircut. This sensory enhancement increases satisfaction and repeat business.
4. Reduces Anxiety
Some psychology: music has been proven to relieve stress and improve mood. First-time visitors or kids might be nervous in a new environment. Playing familiar or gentle music can help dispel tension and make clients feel at ease. This is especially true in our Kids Haircut and Seniors Haircut services.
The Psychology of Barbershop Music
Music and Memory
Music is directly linked to memory. A 90s hip-hop song can instantly transport one to their younger days. This emotional connection generates nostalgia and trust—critical in establishing long-term customer relationships.
Tempo and Timing
Did you know that slower music can actually cause clients to think time is moving more slowly, and quicker music can cause a wait to feel shorter? Selecting the tempo of your playlist strategically can influence perceived wait times and client satisfaction.
Here's a positive review that mentions positive vibes. That's what we want to achieve - a pleasurable experience every time you step foot in here!
Best Music Genres for a Barbershop
While personal style and clientele play a part, the following are some time-tested genres that work in the majority of shops:
Classic Hip-Hop & R&B
Classic hip-hop, 90s hits, and R&B are timeless. They're upbeat enough to keep the energy going but well-known enough to be soothing.
Reggae & Afrobeat
Relaxed yet rhythmic, reggae and afrobeat bring positive energy to any shop. They're particularly awesome for weekend mornings or in the summer.
Jazz & Lo-Fi
Perfect for early mornings or for older customers, jazz and lo-fi hip-hop create a mellow ambiance that's easy on the ears.
Latin Hits
In case your client list is multicultural, Latin music is an excellent means of adding a lively cultural element. Salsa, bachata, and reggaeton each have the ability to spice up the shop in an authentic way.
Tips for Making a Barbershop Playlist
Know Your Audience: Tailor your playlist to your ideal clients. In Nassau County, NY, a mixture of urban classics and multicultural tracks works effectively.
Keep It Clean: Lyrics matter—especially if you are serving families or kids. Always opt for radio edits or instrumental tracks when needed.
Update Regularly: Rotate playlists to prevent stagnation and repetition.
Use the Right Tools: Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music offer pre-created barbershop playlists that you can tailor to your personal style.
Real-World Impact at New York Master Barbers
At New York Master Barbers, we’ve seen firsthand how music shapes the customer experience. When the playlist hits right, the mood lifts, conversations spark, and clients leave not just with sharp fades, but with good memories. Music helps create the energy behind our shop’s most talked-about service experiences—from a smooth Hot Towel Shave to a tight Beard Trim.
Final Thoughts
Music isn't barbershop background noise—it's brand. It's narrative. When thoughtfully curated, music has the potential to increase satisfaction, foster connection, and even move business.
If you're prepared to take your grooming experience to the next level in a clean, vibe-forward space, book your appointment with New York Master Barbers today.
(516) 328-0724
208 Franklin Ave #1439, Franklin Square, NY 11010
This was a surprisingly deep read. I had no idea that music tempo and memory were so tied to how we feel in spaces like a barbershop. I looked it up and found this article that backs it up—music really can influence stress levels and improve mood. I’ve had a few hot towel shaves at your spot and the vibe was always so calm and welcoming. Now I know part of that was by design. You’re creating more than just a grooming service—you’re creating an experience. Big ups for going the extra mile.
This blog really hits home. I never thought about how much music affects my barbershop experience until I read this. It’s true—when the playlist is right, the cut feels better, the vibe is smoother, and even the conversation flows easier. It’s something you don’t notice until you experience a shop that doesn’t get it right.\n\nEvery time I’m in the chair at New York Master Barbers, the playlist is fire. It’s that balance of old-school hip-hop, some chill R&B, and occasionally something new that surprises you—in a good way. It’s a little thing that makes a big difference. Respect for actually breaking it down and explaining the psychology behind it. This is why your shop stands out.