In a segment from Episode 5 of MyGolfSpy’s weekly show, No Putts Given, the team discusses music on the golf course.
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comments
Francis j Forcione
2 months ago
I am from the Jack Nicklaus generation and do not like music on the Golf Course or professional golfers wearing shorts. Of course, who cares what us oldie, but goodies think as the modern culture has taken over the world.
Kip kinchington
1 year ago
Today was my first experience playing golf with someone else in the foursome paying loud music (80s rock) . I despised it please give me back the wind and rustle of the leaves. We were not asked if we minded it terrible experience
NO NO NO
Brad
2 years ago
I am a professional musician and love most types of music. However, one reason I play golf is to disconnect from all the technology, sounds, and other distractions that already dominate my life. I personally don’t think music should be played on the course except through ear buds. When asked I respectfully say I would rather not hear music during the round.
The Pittsburgh Golf Hack
3 years ago
No, I do not think that music should be allowed on the course. Unfortunately the USGA seems to not know how to handle this situation as well. They say in rule 14.3 that as long as the media being listened to does not pertain to the match or anything related to golf that could give you an advantage, or does not assist the player in any way, then it is legal………….as long as they abide by the rules set forth in Rule 1.2 which states the conduct of all players should not distract the play of another player. Hence where my underlying issue comes into play. What might not be perceived as a distraction for your foursome might be a distraction for mine. While your group is out to drink beer and have fun not worrying about your scores, I might be playing a round with a fellow player that is strictly by the rules because our scores will be recorded for handicapping purposes. The rub is there’s just no good way to cater to both players at this time, and until USGA addresses the situation it will continue to be a divided topic for golfers across the world.
John gibb
8 months ago
If you want to listen to music use ear buds, on the golf course any type of music can be off putting to some. Once it is allowed like everything else people will abuse the privelage. And have no regard for anyone else.
Paul Della Valle
3 years ago
I love music–but not on the course. I’m in a bluegrass band but I love all music except rap. So what happened yesterday. We’re playing in my league and these four 20 somethings (white guys btw) in front of us are blasting rap with the n-word every other word. I mean blasting it. They turned it down when we asked on 2 but turned it back up a couple holes later. We asked them again to turn it down and they refused. One of them challenged one guy in our group, Mike, to a fight in the parking lot. Mike calmly said “you’ll lose “. and the punks left without a whimper.
Dave Hutchinson
4 years ago
A playing partner brought a bluetooth speaker with him one day and he played music during the round. It was the 1st time i had played with music and i really enjoyed it, kinda put me at ease. Im a single digit handicap and i take the game very serious.. But having the music took the edge off and i feel helps me play better. I went and purchased my own bluetooth speaker because when my buddy wasn’t playing i missed having the music.. We keep the volume low, just barely loud enough to hear outside of the cart. I always ask the group first.. I’ve not had a single no to this point.. I have had strangers in the group ask me turn it up on two separate rounds.. I feel if the volume is kept low it should be okay.
J Taylor
4 years ago
I’m late to the party. Grew up playing golf. Took several years off. Went and played Bandon Crossing today – two separate groups were blaring their music that could be heard 2 fairways away. I don’t care what music is playing – don’t care if it’s my favorite song. Music and speakers don’t belong on the golf course and you have zero respect for yourself and others if you’re one of those annoying morons. Leave it at
home.
Jeremy Callahan
5 years ago
One point everyone is missing is that music is actually bad for your game… Think about this. Every song has a different BPM (beats per minute) and your swing needs to be the same every swing. So if your swing is 156 BPM’s and you are listening to a song with 156 BPM’s awesome! But the next song will be at 92 BPM’s… not awesome. You may think the music is keeping you calm or relaxed but in fact you are speeding up or slowing down your tempo between every song. Spotify actually has stations for runners like “Running 156 BPM’s” so runners stay at the same pace from song to song. If you are going to listen to music on the course or driving range make sure it matched you swing BPM. If you want to know your swing BPM… get the Golf BPM App and you can discover that.
Steve Clymer
5 years ago
I live on a golf course but the public is allowed to play. Sometimes, I can hear the music while inside my home. It is not good and it keeps security busy. Music should not be allowed.
ITAv8t0r
5 years ago
I prefer the sound of nature. I also prefer to walk the course and enjoy the courses beauty.
Claytongolfer
5 years ago
I had my first experience with music on the golf course last weekend. One group you could barely hear, another not so. I was on a green trying to putt and a group on an adjacent tee was playing Alan Jackson. It was very distracting. When I reached the turn a asked the course what their policy was on music on the course. They had no answer. I really think this issue is going to cause some conflicts.
Tom
5 years ago
I enjoy music on the golf course. I have a UE Boom. I only play it if my group is OK with it and I ask them what type of music they like. I am 63 so most of my music is 70’s, 80’s, newer country and top pop (no rap or F Bombs echoing over the fairways). The volume is reasonable so it is not heard beyond 5 – 10 yards of the cart. The music relaxes me and helps me concentrate better. A song in my head is better than 10 swing thoughts. All my golf is social golf. Not appropriate for tournament, tight ass golf. I don’t want to play with you anyway!
Rudy
5 years ago
I,like music . But not on the golf course. It is very distracting for me before after and during swing thoughts. I’ve gotta tell my friend tomorrow that he cannot play music anymore while playing with me.
Don
4 years ago
I like your 5 yard rule.
cody reeder
5 years ago
I like music, but I do not mind if someone else does not. I will never play it if the group is not OK with it and I it only stays at a level that can be heard from a few paces of the cart.
I think you will see though, that music will become more and more the norm, and those that do not like it will be the far minority.
SCOTT H
5 years ago
I prefer not to have music playing, but then again I don’t like rangefinders either – with that said, I don’t mind someone in my own group playing music if they really enjoy it and its tasteful. I only have a problem if I hear another groups music 200 yards away.
Neil
5 years ago
It’s quick simple. If people want to share music get a decent set of earbuds. Some people won’t like hearing it so what is wrong with having consideration for them. If you allow it, people will take it beyond necessary and play it too loud or play songs that are inappropriate.
Andy
5 years ago
This is the concern. Inevitably and invariably there will be at least one group that has to have it a little too loud and has to have something a little to objectionable.
I have not issues with my group playing music on the course and I like a WIDE range of music. But I do NOT want to hear music from the next fairway.
DaveyD
5 years ago
I don’t need to hear someone’s loud music when they’re waiting for me to tee off.
nm386
5 years ago
we get music everywhere, most often whether we want it or not. At work ok, I personally love it loud in the car, I wear great headphones at home so I can have it loud, when camping (hate it there). I think music affects us subconsciously and as individuals. If I hear a tune I like, i get jacked up and ball goes further. hear a tune I hate and the ball goes no where. other may be affected the opposite way. BUT as long as the music can ONLY be heard in the Cart and never around the green or tee – ok.
[email protected]
5 years ago
Get yourself a set of trecz air headphones They play thru your skull bone so you can still hear everything else as they don’t cover your ears. Ultra lite and last 18 holes. At £99 on Amazon they are a right touch.
Patrick Plymouth uk
Scotty
5 years ago
For me it is very much a case of showing consideration to the other people on the course, some people won’t mind hearing music and some will so you have to go with the safe bet and don’t play it loudly. I don’t think people wanting music will be put out if there isn’t any but people requiring quiet will.
Personally, I tend to stick to headphones when playing as I’m usually on my own and I suspect most of the members wouldn’t be a fan of my music choices.
It’s the same as people needing to be mindful of those taking a shot when walking about chatting, unfortunately something that is getting worse where I play in the UK, people seem to be zoned into their own world/conversation and show little appreciation for those around.
jimboob
5 years ago
YEP
vinman
5 years ago
HILARIOUS! I am a Psychological Therapist. EVERYONE HAS A PROBLEM WITH MUSIC! the only people that don’t mind the music say “as long as I can’t hear it”. Saying that means you DO have a problem with music and for good reason. Music is POWERFUL and influences your mood tempo and emotions. The CORE of golf performance is your brain. Don’t we have enough distractions in our lives. Even clicks of cameras bother professional golfers for gods sake. If you want to wear over the ear noise canceling wireless headphones. Have at it. But don’t kid yourselves thinking music won’t have an influence on your game. For me golf is zen and calm time where I can actually enjoy nature. Even cell phone ringers should be put on vibrate and concentrate on yourself your friends and golf.
chrisK
5 years ago
Amen!
1 Putt
5 years ago
I am a music lover. You know why advertisers are using so much classic rock and roll in their advertising? It’s because those songs elicit an emotional response from most people, and they want to transfer that and have people associate it with their product. Every time I hear a song on the golf course that I recall, it is completely counter productive to staying in the moment, one shot at a time, etc. Like others have said as well, I love nature and the sounds of birds chirping, etc. too. Funny how when the music guy in the foursome is asked to turn it down or off by the others in the group, how grumpy they can get. Usually the guy who drives up with the music on already, showing no consideration for others. I don’t feel bad about asking them to turn it down or off. I used to be a big cigar on the golf course guy, but always asked others in the group if it was OK or if they wanted to join me, letting them know I was fine either way and that I knew it could bother some. Just looking for the same courtesy and gentlemanly conduct.
James T
5 years ago
There is already music on the course… singing birds, chirping crickets and gentle (hopefully) wind blowing through the trees. If you’re lucky enough there is also the sound of ocean waves.
That being said, I have on occasion worn earbuds, gone off early in the morning by myself and listened to music. My favorite: the soundtrack from Tin Cup for the course.
Ernest
5 years ago
Music is fine – under 1 CONDITION. Only the people in your CART can hear it. I may not share your musical tastes, and therefore I should not be forced to listen to it (from the next tee, next green, or waiting to hit my approach shot, whilst you are putting).
Bob
5 years ago
Watched the video, and what I heard was NOT a debate about music or no music on the course. It’s four guys justifying playing music, then a preview to MGS’s next article about testing speakers for golf carts. At least be upfront—you’re promoting playing music on the course, not debating the question.
Trevor
5 years ago
I honestly don’t care if there’s music or not. I’ll play the same either way. If it turns into have a few too many then so be it. As long as it’s not annoying the other groups out there, who cares. Life’s too short to be worried about something so petty.
Brandon
5 years ago
If everyone in the group is cool with it, sure. Just turn it down/off when in earshot of other groups. I frequently listen to baseball games while playing, I just turn it down if anyone is on the tee when I pull up.
Sam
5 years ago
I love how many people are writing, “i go to the course to get away from the noise and enjoy my quiet”. Just because that’s what you like to do on the course doesn’t make it wrong for other to listen to music. I very much consider myself a serious golfer and take my game seriously but come on who we kidding here, its recreational golf. I get it when “that group” is blastin’ beastie boys while sluggin’ down brews is a bit more than annoying, here’s a concept, ask them to turn it down! Play music don’t play music i could care less just don’t play SLOW!
Will
5 years ago
According to Caddyshack, only appropriate when Al Czervik (Rodney) is on the course…
Terry
5 years ago
Not sure if a consensus could ever be reached but I think not unless it is so low that other people playing cannot hear it. Singles wanting music can put on a headset. My general rule is that if it is something that can distract from other people on the course enjoying themselves then don’t do it. People are paying money to play so they should not have to listen to other peoples music if they do not want to, common sense.
Darrin
5 years ago
Charity Scramble, for sure, 100% of the time, turn it up!
Normal round with buddies-I’m fine with it, just keep the volume under control. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, until we settle the bets…
Tournament-leave it at home.
chrisK
5 years ago
i just love talking and music at charity scrambles, especially when i’m trying to line up the $10k hole-in-one shot on the par 3
TR1PTIK
5 years ago
I play a lot of golf as a single. Music is a necessity for me most of the time. When playing the right tracks with the volume at a respectable level, I find it actually adds to my enjoyment on the golf course.
Plenty of people treat the golf course as though they are out on the lake and will blast whatever music as loud as they want and chug as much beer as they can – I don’t agree with that.
To say that music should not be allowed on the course at all though is just old-fashioned and about as stuffy as the old hags at Augusta National that didn’t allow women members until 2012!!!
Justin T.
5 years ago
I don’t mean to start anything here, but really?! I don’t think comparing playing music to the repression of women to be a reasonable argument. You might think it’s stuffy, but let’s keep things in perspective. Asking golfers to keep their music in their earbuds has little correlation to men perpetuating gender inequality.
Trying to play the best I can
5 years ago
Agree totally, if you want entertainment go to top golf or the bar. “Some of us” are trying to play better and improve our game, distractions are distractions. We haven’t seen, yet, music on the the PGA Tour, maybe we will, but I’m hoping I’ll be long gone by then.
TR1PTIK
5 years ago
Considering the last time the topic was brought up on MGS someone opposed to music threatened physical violence with a gun, I feel pretty okay about what I said. It’s not a matter of the repression of women vs. music on the golf course. It’s a matter of backwards thinking old men wanting to stifle progression of any sort. If you want the game to be available for future generations to enjoy – and they want to enjoy it alongside music – so be it. We’re only talking about recreational play anyway. The rules of golf bar music from competition.
Bob
5 years ago
Know what sucks? Driving 100 miles or so to a decent camp spot, only to have some yahoo drive up set up next to you and blast his music nice and loud, saying he has every right to do so.
It’s the same on the golf course. My idea of fun and relaxation is enjoying the quiet, the nature and the scenery. I paid $20/$30/$40 to do that. Why do I have to listen to your music because you want to play it loud? Put on some headsets, if you want it so bad.
Steve
5 years ago
Exactly…
Tim Secor
5 years ago
Yes, but it depends on who I am playing with. At a casual outing, definitely. During a normal round with “serious” golfers, they do not like it. As long as its low volume and not bothering anyone else, its a yes
JP
5 years ago
Yes. I use my JBL Clip speaker when I play when I walk or ride a cart. It’s small and light weight yet has great sound.
Ruben Acosta
5 years ago
I like to listen to music sometimes, usually when I am walking the round. But there are people who aren’t “musical” and aren’t appreciative of the music playing while they are playing. I respect their wishes and do not play it then. If I do listen I have the volume down so that you barely hear it 10 feet away. I also would like to note that Golf media has pushed the playing of music as a viable option. Golf Digest has presented bluetooth speakers as equipment as early as two years ago. My local golf course just bought new golf carts that have builtin bluetooth and stereo speakers. I believe it’s an individual preference such as smoking cigars, drinking alcoholic beverages and talking on your cellphone. Please consider those around you.
Lee Cole
5 years ago
While playing an absolute no. As a neuropsychologist and one who works with peak performance I am aware of the research on relaxation, stress reduction and performance using music. First, the research is clear that although music and its effect is somewhat subjective most music has certain effects on all of the above. Some effects are different depending on the purpose. A few always have a negative effect on the above. For example, heavy metal and heavily syncopated jazz.
For me and most of my clients I use lots of epic music for motivation and to accompany visualization techniques. Ex.- Two Steps From Hell, Audiomachine, Hans Zimmers, Glitch Mob, Dwayne Ford, and game music like from Assassins Creed and Halo. Certian movies too like Interstellar. For stress reduction and to use with a meditative dance I teach called The Rejuvenation Rite I use someone like Deva Premal or Vangelis and others.
As far as being on the course I want to hear the sounds of nature and other golfers not your dang music. I knew the Apocalypse was upon us when I saw that one of the major golf magazines had a listing for the best speaker to use on the course. Good grief.
Tim
5 years ago
Totally agree with this! I personally dont even listen to music in my car, but dont mind if the guys im playing with have speakers. As long as its not blaring!
Played in an outing a few weeks ago and foursome of 20 somthings had the music cranked to the point that it could be heard from a couple hundred yards away. They werent very good and their choice of music was annoying.
Anyway, if u have to have music playing atleast keep the volume down to a respecable level.
Guess i must be getting old and grouchy!
Justin T.
5 years ago
Definitely a no for me on music over bluetooth speakers on the course and I’m a gigging musician. I go out as a single all the time and play in groups with strangers and almost every time we encounter another group with music playing, the people I’m playing with make subtle to not-subtle comments about how rude it is. It’s a matter of being conscientious. Assuming others will speak up about their annoyance face-to-face is a big assumption. Everyone is paying to be out there, so it feels difficult to ask someone to turn off the tunes. If you want music, please use ear buds. You get to move to the beat and the rest of us get what we came for.
Kevin
5 years ago
Music eases stress. Would be curious to know what the studies say about music and memory/focus. I recall listening to classical, edm, and “study” music when I’m trying to focus. I wonder if listening to the specific types of music with earpods or on a speaker has any impact on performance? When I’m standing over a putt, I do find myself humming a song inside my head to help let the stress and stiffness release from my body.
Plus music on the course is fine. We play music in our cars, we play music when we work out. As long as it’s at a level where youre not disturbing others around you play away and let the good time roll!
Ron Anderson
5 years ago
Yes, but I always confirm my playing partners don’t mind. Being a mid-50’s guy I enjoy the music of the 70’s and the Eagles channel on Pandora is very enjoyable to me and acceptable to those I play with. The volume is never too high because I like being able to hear birds and at times the sounds of silence.
.
Rich
5 years ago
Not just no but HECK NO MUSIC!!!!!!
Mark Varnam
5 years ago
Really? That’s eve a question? You golf to get away from everything and try to excel as best you can in a game that can reward you one minute and punish you the next. I don’t need to give my playing partners an excuse for their flubbed shots. There is already enough noise with some of the wingnuts who play and disrespect everyone else. Adding music just ruins the game. Wear headphones if you must but keep up to the pace of play and don’t complain when someone yells “Fore!” and you get hit. Think nature, quiet, calm, time with friends. Have music in the clubhouse after the round but not out onthe patio,. So, in a word, NO!!
Albert Eng
5 years ago
When I ride in a cart or mostly these days with my push cart. I alway have my Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3. Music makes the round go by nicely. I always turn it down at the tee box and around the greens depending who I’m playing with and I always ask if they mind. No one has ever said to me to turn it off. S
Whitey
5 years ago
No one minds? Really? Asking if if no one minds it is like are you OK if I smoke? No one will, most anyone will not pipe up, why don’t you ask, if anyone would like music I can put some on, if not that’s ok.
Lance Matteo
5 years ago
I play with guys that play music all the time – I don’t mind it as long as it is at a decent volume and doesn’t bother other players on the course.
Whitey
5 years ago
Once playing with someone I didn’t know very well, who put the music on without asking, I asked him if he had any Simon and Garfunkel, he said I might! I then asked him if if he had the “sounds of silence”? It was very quiet after that.
Bradford Acorn
5 years ago
Yes! Music is great and can be a welcome addition for those days you are just “In your head”. Never too loud and ways ask your playing partners if they mind. I find New Wave 80’s the best on the playlist!
Kyle
5 years ago
Just makes the round more enjoyable, understand those that blare the sound can bother others so gotta keep it in moderation. Love having music in the car to listen to as we swing.
O2BGolfn
5 years ago
Love music , just not on the golf course during a round. Ban it and while at it ban cell phones too.
Mike Vassar
5 years ago
+1 for O2BGOLFN. I feel the same way. Unless you’re a doctor on call, leave the cell phone on silent in your bag. If you’re so important that you need to be on your cell phone all round, you should have stayed home!
Gregory Rowland
5 years ago
I qualify in the old fart, curmudgeon, get off my lawn group …. and yes, absolutely, music out of my ipod to my jvc portable speaker, every round.
Steve Lovasik
5 years ago
No way….I am out on the course to get away from all the noise and distractions of the every day. I want to hear nature, my club hitting the ball, and sometimes just the silence so I can think about my Dad and the fun times we had playing this game. I don’t want to hear someones music killing my good vibes.
I have friends that do play music on the course…most of the time it ends up being an argument on what should be playing vs just playing golf. They all know if they want me play, the music is off…if not, I won’t play with them. Plain and simple
Colin
5 years ago
Oh ya , music for sure as sometimes you here that song that gets you going and it just puts you back in that rhythm you needed to finish strong!?️♂️
Jeff
5 years ago
No music please. Between my buddies and I there’s a lot of talking (trash talk, jokes and just catching up with one another) on the course. Don’t need or want any music at all!
Brian
5 years ago
I enjoy the music on the golf course. As with anything you need to be respectful of others. Keep the volume down. Don’t assume everyone likes your music.
Ray B
5 years ago
UE Boom 2 fits perfect and is less than $100 now. Awesome speaker, great battery life, great bass response, fits in the cup holder. I get people asking me all the time. Bonus, it is waterproof. You can throw it in your pool and you can link them. My buddies will have 1 in each cart and play the same music. Great range as was mentioned here. It’s the ultimate portable speaker in my opinion.
Whitey
5 years ago
Good for you! You didn’t address whether anyone in hearing distance “cared” to hear your music.
Wizzo1
5 years ago
Depends. I’ve been on bachelor party scrambles where we had adult entertainment on the course so music was mandatory!
daviddvm
5 years ago
Yeah Baby!
Steve Smullins
5 years ago
Don’t have problem with it as long as it’s not loud especially when your on tee box and green.
Nancie
5 years ago
Heck no! No music! Next thing will be dancing at the turn while munching on a hot dog or drinking a beer. I personally love the peace and tranquility when on course. Don’t ruin it.
Billy Collins
5 years ago
Hard no on music on the golf course.
Frank Wiater
5 years ago
No, don’t need the distraction.
daviddvm
5 years ago
I’m a baby boomer, WE LOVE MUSIC !
Regis
5 years ago
I went to Woodstock. But I don’t work on my shortgame in the living room and I don’t play music outside EXCEPT with headphones. And I have several pair of sweet headphones
daviddvm
5 years ago
I take my game seriously and I don’t normally have a speaker with me but I welcome the sounds as long as the volume is a reasonable decibel.
Whitey
5 years ago
“We baby boomers” speak for yourself please.
mark carlson
5 years ago
Not just no, but hell no! I just want to play golf without being subjected to music I would never listen to if I had a choice, and I certainly wouldn’t impose my tastes on others who more than likely don’t share my musical interests. Nature, conversations, the sound of the club hitting the ball – that’s more than enough. And yes, by all means, call me an old fart and a dinosaur. So be it.
Whitey
5 years ago
+1 to what you said. How many of you can remember the sound of spikes on concrete, or the sound of balata on persimmon? You’ve missed the point, golf is about getting away from it all. Not more of the same.
Pat
5 years ago
Please no music on the golf course. While I understand the desire to popularize the game, music on the course will only serve to lessen the serene nature of the game.
DL
5 years ago
What are your thoughts about the 16th hole at the WMO in Scottsdale?
James T
5 years ago
That’s fun… I don’t have to hit the tee shot and fans are having a good, raucous time. At least it’s limited to one hole, one tournament. A little “scramble atmosphere” is always good. In moderation.
SCOTT CHASTAIN
5 years ago
Yes as long as it is maintained at a level that offends no one else playing. If your playing partners ask you to turn it off, then honor there request.
David Brown
5 years ago
Yes, Its fine at a low volume in your cart or earphones. Low volume means it should barely be audible on the tee box when you are not in your cart. I find it quite pleasant and enjoy instrumental jazz when I play. I also ask playing partners if they mind.
However, it should be only in casual games. No for club or district tournaments.
Adder
2 months ago
If you wish to listen to music on golf course wear buds as it is rude to force golfers who are actually trying to put a score together and not out for a walk. Not welcome at any Open Championship courses and certainly not at Augusta. Play your public courses how ever you want, whilst your out for your walk.