The popularity of poker continues to rise, with the game having become part of a worldwide sub-culture online. It doesn’t matter which part of the world you're in –– this game has attained legendary status. As this has happened over the decades, poker has inevitably made its way into various aspects of pop culture as well. In the music world, many artists have expressed their love for the game through fantastic songs and epic performances. Here, we want to pay homage to a few of the rockers and songs that have done it best. 1. "Aces of Spades"On November 8, 1980, the heavy metal rock band Motörhead released what many people say is the best rock song ever made about poker. The group's members have expressed that they wrote the song with the goal to include as many relevant poker terms and phrases as possible. As a result, listening to this song can actually teach you a few things about the popular card game –– or at least expose you to some of the lingo. Heavy metal fans love the song so much that they use the lyrics as mantras to live by. Some examples include, “you win some, lose some, it’s all the same to me,” and “you know I’m born to lose, and gambling’s for fools” –– as well as even “Pushing up the ante, I know you got to see me, Read 'em and weep, the dead man's hand again.” 2. "Viva Las Vegas"Released in 1964, this track by the King of Rock 'n' Roll caught on instantly with fans. The fun, rhythmic, and (at the time) hip song reflected the rock 'n' roll vibes of the decade. It went on to set the stage for other upbeat, fast-paced, and groovy melodies of the '60s which carried over with heavy influence into the '70s as well. Fans still go crazy as they chant along to the song’s lyrics, such as “Bright light city, gonna set my soul, gonna set my soul on fire.” The song also holds special meaning to those who frequent the actual city of Las Vegas –– where everything from the bars to the gaming scene has evolved over the years, but "Viva Las Vegas" is still a staple tune. 3. "Diamond Jack"The renowned band Wishbone Ash released "Diamond Jack" in 1977. The song is rooted in classic metal, as reflected by the way in which it employs twin guitars and amazing drumming. It also happens to contain numerous poker references, making it no wonder that it's beloved by metal and gambling enthusiasts alike. Fans especially adore the spectacular bass lines, pitch perfect vocals and sentimental lyrics, such as, “I had an ace of hearts, the dream of every man, and I could see my destiny.” For many enthusiasts, this band is what classic rock is all about. 4. "Deuces Are Wild"It was 1988 when Aerosmith unleashed his epic song. Fans across the globe went crazy for the tune, and poker players in particular appreciated the title (because who doesn't like to have a wild card in a poker game?).
Aerosmith’s delightfully fun lyrics, “I love you 'cause your deuces are wild, girl, like a double shot of lovin' so fine,” create a perfect link between the love of poker and the passion of a secret love affair. And the narrator further confirms his feelings for the mystery girl as he proclaims, “cause you and me is two of a kind.” Poker has always had a hold on culture like no other game, and this has been highlighted in particular by great rock musicians. Thanks for reading, and please check out our blog for more content on all things rock 'n' roll.
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