Post #314521 by DJ Terence Gunn on Sat, Jun 23, 2007 2:53 PM

You think describing 'What is Tiki' difficult? Try describing what Cocktail Culture and Lounge music (of which Tiki and Exotica are components of) is to the inquiring not-in-the-know masses. Being one of the premiere DJs and event organisers in the first wave (was there ever a second?) of the Lounge craze of the mid-1990s, I was constantly trying to educate people in this genre and culture -- one that grouped many adult-oriented aspects of life from the 1950s & '60s together to form an all-encompassing style. Some understood it right away, some had a mild grasp, but most (even those who liked the music) just didn't get it. I always used to say 'Cocktail Culture is an appreciation of the quality and style of adult social life of the 1950s & '60s'. And, of course, I wasn't referring just to the Jet Setters, Swingers, and High Rollers, but to the average married couple, as well, who would break out the easy listening records and throw cocktail parties.

So much of what we romanticise and are attracted to from the 1950s & '60s was actually very common place back then in culture and not all that extraordinary. Only in retrospect (because that quality of life and style no longer exists) does it seem otherwise. And though 'Tiki' has evolved in many ways, and has taken on new shapes and forms and ideas (and sadly, deviations), its basic roots and ideals and inspiration still lay in the past.

Just be thankful that explaining 'What is Tiki?' IS difficult, as it makes it all that more special to those who DO understand it.