Opinion & Analysis
5 Things Not to Do When Bringing Music to the Golf Course
Some combinations were formed in heaven: chocolate and peanut butter; pizza and beer; March Madness and sick days. Others were created somewhere much warmer: toothpaste and orange juice; socks and flip flops. You get the picture.
When Rodney Dangerfield, a.k.a., Al Czervik, cranked up Journey from of his tricked-out golf bag at Bushwood Country Club in 1980, he was considered a menace. Today, however, the practice of bringing music to the golf course is gaining popularity.
Are music and golf a devilish combination or one brought to us by our beloved Golf Gods? Depending on your approach, it could be either. Like drinking at your boss’ party, moderation and awareness are key if you want to listen to music on the course tastefully. If you can’t resist the temptation, here are some tips to keep you and your tunes out of trouble during your round.
Don’t turn the volume to 11. Sure, that speaker you brought to the course has never played a note below full blast, but it’s time to test its low-end capabilities. Picture the hole with the shortest distance between the green and the next tee box. Put your music down and walk that distance. If you can still hear the music, it’s too loud. The wrath of someone who just three-jacked and blames it on your boombox far outweighs the bliss any song can deliver.
Don’t rage. Music and golf is already a fringe combination, but some genres are unquestionably out of bounds. You wouldn’t scream on the golf course – except to yell “fore!” – and your music shouldn’t, either. Keep the tunes calm, cool and collected and save the heavy metal for your post-round temper tantrum.
Don’t bring that Kool-Aid to a gin party. Your co-worker from three cubicles down finally invited you to his father-in-law’s ritzy country club. What could impress him more than showing off your sophisticated Eric Clapton collection? If you’re looking for a repeat invitation, you’ll have to resist. The more exclusive and expensive your tee time, the more you should reconsider your need for Creed. On-course music should be reserved for casual tracks where you can trade your spikeless Nike’s for Teva’s and a collared shirt actually makes you feel overdressed.
Don’t DJ. Stopping, starting and skipping songs can be a distraction to your playing partners, and if your attention is focused on constantly playing the perfect song it’s diverted from playing golf. Make a playlist, start it on the first hole and let it play through the end of the round.
Don’t use headphones. You’re playing as a single and think headphones are the perfect work-around to rules 1-4, think again. To paraphrase Destiny’s Child, voluntarily eliminating your ability to hear what’s going on around you on the course is a definite no-no-no-no-no. Whether it’s because you left your wedge on the green, are in the path of an errant tee shot, are being offered a refreshment, or are being asked to join up, play through, or be played through, you need to be able to hear on the course.
While not traditional, music and golf does not have to be a taboo tandem. Stick to these tips to add a new element to your weekly round… and let the good times roll.
Club Junkie
Tour Edge Exotics mini driver review + TaylorMade Spider ZT Max first look – Club Junkie
On this episode of Club Junkie, I put the new Tour Edge Exotics Mini Driver to the test and break down the performance, forgiveness, distance, and where it fits compared to a traditional driver or strong fairway wood. If you have been curious about adding a mini driver to the bag, this one is worth a look.
I also dive into the new TaylorMade Spider ZT Max putter that was recently spotted and discuss the growing zero torque putter trend. Plus, there is a closer look at the new Project X Titan Yellow shaft showing up on the PGA Tour and what makes it different from other profiles currently out there.
Opinion & Analysis
AVL: We’re talking about practice! My best tips for taking your game to the course
With the beginning of June on the horizon and courses rounding into peak condition for the season, it’s time to hone the finer skills that often get rusty over the winter. More sunlight also means more time to get out on the course and work on your game.
Whether it’s the practice green or the driving range, there’s always something to improve—whether you’re enjoying the fresh air or preparing for a weekend game or tournament. You can work on drills or freestyle around the green, and friendly competition is a great way to sharpen your skills.
While there are endless ways to get better at golf, I’m going to focus on practicing around the green. Let’s take a look at a few things to keep in mind as we head into the summer months.
Drills
From the driving range to the practice green, it’s important to incorporate drills into your routine. Years ago, I spent a weekend working on my short game with James Sieckmann. He recommended doing drill work for 5–10 minutes, then returning to your main practice.
This way, you create a balance between structured drills and real-world scenarios, so you’re not confined to “perfect” situations. For example, hitting the same three-foot putt over and over is good for repetition, but after a while, it becomes less interactive for your brain.
My approach is to use a putting trainer with a narrow gate for the ball to pass through, or simply place tees just outside the width of the ball. I’ll hit a series of four putts through the gate for three sets. Then, from a similar distance, I’ll hit four putts without the training aid and repeat that sequence three times.
Next, I’ll hit a number of 15–25 foot putts in a random fashion, then circle back to repeat the short putt drills with and without the training aid.
This breaks up the rhythm of hitting short putts with the training aid. When you hit the same short putts over and over, it’s easy to get into a groove—which is great for the drill, but not reflective of actual course play. While finding a rhythm is fundamental for drills, I like to introduce variation with longer putts to keep things realistic.
Game Mode
Once you’ve established a foundation with drills, it’s time to simulate on-course scenarios. This is where a few practice games come in handy.
One that I’ve been enjoying lately involves putting 10- to 15-footers with two balls. If I make the putt, great! If I miss, I pull the missed ball back a putter length. Suddenly, that little tap-in becomes a nerve-wracking three-footer—at least at first. As you get better at this game, those three- and five-footers become much more comfortable and routine.
It may sound cliché, but each shot is just what it is—it’s how we react that makes the difference. I like this game because it blends the pressure of on-course putting with the consequence of leaving yourself a much longer putt than usual.
Another game I like is one I recently learned from Brad Faxon. Place three tees in a line at four different locations around the hole: one at 3 feet, one at 6 feet, and one at 8 feet. The 3- and 6-foot putts count as par, and the 8-footer is for birdie.
This game keeps you focused on scoring and helps you get into a competitive mindset. You can even think about this putting game while you’re on the course. I just started playing it, and last week I couldn’t get better than two under par.
Competition
Competition during practice is when drills and games come to life, and you start to see results. For me, nothing beats a putting contest with a friend or two. In the right setting, these contests can become talking points for the whole season.
Match play, a game of 21, or simply seeing who can make the most one-putts (with a small prize on the line) are all great ways to simulate real on-course pressure. Recently, I played in a putting contest where one competitor made back-to-back 30- and 50-foot putts. As they say, expect your opponent to make every putt—and he nearly did. That’s impressive, and it’s something you see on the course, too: you have to stay committed to your game plan, no matter what.
When it comes to practice, it’s important to blend feedback from recent rounds with the fundamentals you want to reinforce. Drills, games, and competition—from the driving range to the putting green—form the backbone of skills you’ll rely on during actual rounds.
Finding the right balance is something we’re all working on, one practice session at a time. With the beginning of June on the horizon and courses rounding into peak condition for the season, it’s time to hone the finer skills that often get rusty over the winter. More sunlight also means more time to get out on the course and work on your game. Whether it’s the practice green or the driving range, there’s always something to improve—whether you’re enjoying the fresh air or preparing for a weekend game or tournament. You can work on drills or freestyle around the green, and friendly competition is a great way to sharpen your skills. While there are endless ways to get better at golf, I’m going to focus on practicing around the green. Let’s take a look at a few things to keep in mind as we head into the summer months.
Drills
From the driving range to the practice green, it’s important to incorporate drills into your routine. Years ago, I spent a weekend working on my short game with James Sieckmann. He recommended doing drill work for 5–10 minutes, then returning to your main practice. This way, you create a balance between structured drills and real-world scenarios, so you’re not confined to “perfect” situations. For example, hitting the same three-foot putt over and over is good for repetition, but after a while, it becomes less interactive for your brain.
My approach is to use a putting trainer with a narrow gate for the ball to pass through, or simply place tees just outside the width of the ball. I’ll hit a series of four putts through the gate for three sets. Then, from a similar distance, I’ll hit four putts without the training aid and repeat that sequence three times. Next, I’ll hit a number of 15–25 foot putts in a random fashion, then circle back to repeat the short putt drills with and without the training aid.
This breaks up the rhythm of hitting short putts with the training aid. When you hit the same short putts over and over, it’s easy to get into a groove—which is great for the drill, but not reflective of actual course play. While finding a rhythm is fundamental for drills, I like to introduce variation with longer putts to keep things realistic.
Game Mode
Once you’ve established a foundation with drills, it’s time to simulate on-course scenarios. This is where a few practice games come in handy. One that I’ve been enjoying lately involves putting 10- to 15-footers with two balls. If I make the putt, great! If I miss, I pull the missed ball back a putter length.
Suddenly, that little tap-in becomes a nerve-wracking three-footer—at least at first. As you get better at this game, those three- and five-footers become much more comfortable and routine. It may sound cliché, but each shot is just what it is—it’s how we react that makes the difference. I like this game because it blends the pressure of on-course putting with the consequence of leaving yourself a much longer putt than usual.
Another game I like is one I recently learned from Brad Faxon. Place three tees in a line at four different locations around the hole: one at 3 feet, one at 6 feet, and one at 8 feet. The 3- and 6-foot putts count as par, and the 8-footer is for birdie.
This game keeps you focused on scoring and helps you get into a competitive mindset. You can even think about this putting game while you’re on the course. I just started playing it, and last week I couldn’t get better than two under par.
Competition
Competition during practice is when drills and games come to life, and you start to see results. For me, nothing beats a putting contest with a friend or two. In the right setting, these contests can become talking points for the whole season. Match play, a game of 21, or simply seeing who can make the most one-putts (with a small prize on the line) are all great ways to simulate real on-course pressure. Recently, I played in a putting contest where one competitor made back-to-back 30- and 50-foot putts. As they say, expect your opponent to make every putt—and he nearly did. That’s impressive, and it’s something you see on the course, too: you have to stay committed to your game plan, no matter what.
When it comes to practice, it’s important to blend feedback from recent rounds with the fundamentals you want to reinforce. Drills, games, and competition—from the driving range to the putting green—form the backbone of skills you’ll rely on during actual rounds. Finding the right balance is something we’re all working on, one practice session at a time.
For Korean golfers, we always look forward to the last of the kkot-saem-chu-I for the true start of a new golf season. The term refers to a cold snap, but literally translates as “winter being jealous of the flowers beginning to bloom, thus lashing out one final time before surrendering to spring”.
A rather poetic mouthful packed into a short expression.
Koreans can be like that. Understated, yet oddly expressive at the same time. And nowhere is this more true on the golf course and in our golf bags. In fact, I suspect many Korean golfers look forward to new apparel and accessory drops more than they do actual equipment launches each year.
At this point, Korean golf fashion may exist on its own timeline. (courtesy of @seonbi_golfer)
There is ample evidence to support that suspicion. Korea is the world’s third-largest golf market behind the United States and Japan, yet its appetite for golf apparel exceeds that of both countries combined. Recent estimates suggest that Korea accounts for nearly 40 percent of the global golf apparel market, placing it among the world’s most influential golf fashion markets and punching well above its size.
Simply, we care deeply about how new golf clubs look and feel, but enjoy looking good while swinging them even more.
Golfers in the West may laugh and say that golf is played on a course, not a fashion runway. Perhaps. But what’s the harm in trying to look and feel good, if the added self-confidence can help actual performance? It certainly seems to have worked for Jason Day, who may have unlocked a new stats category: dormant strokes gained. Coincidence?
During the COVID-era, estimates placed the market near $9 billion, an astonishing figure for a single country.
As a proud member of Gen X, I’ve witnessed the highs and lows of golf fashion firsthand. The pleated trousers and wing-tipped shoes of Jack Nicklaus, the stylish plus-fours and knickers of Payne Stewart, the baggy black trousers and fitted mock-necks of Tiger Woods, and the thigh-hugging athletic tailoring of Rory McIlroy. Golf fashion, like the golf swing itself, has rarely stood still.
But nowhere have those trends shifted, evolved, and been scrutinized quite as relentlessly as in Korea. Here, golf fashion moves faster than fairway gossip, and consumers dissect brands with a level of discernment that can be both impressive and mildly terrifying. New brands are studied, judged, embraced, or dismissed with startling efficiency.
The result is a consumer base with one of the sharpest eyes for quality and authenticity anywhere in the world. It is difficult to quantify, but easy to recognize. Clean lines without trying too hard. Luxury mixed with utility. Trend awareness balanced by restraint and purpose.
It’s golf fashion shaped by one of the world’s most style-literate cities, something I like to call Seoul Sensibilities, referring to the taste level forged by a uniquely competitive environment.
And increasingly, global brands have noticed.
Many golf brands in Korea have their own flagship shops dedicated to apparel only
Titleist understood this years ago, when its apparel business in Korea took on a life of its own under new ownership and local direction. What had once been a straightforward extension of an iconic equipment giant became something sharper and more premium. By going all in on the serious Tour-player look (I couldn’t even fit into their XL sizes), Titleist struck the right chord with Korean consumers and helped its fledgling apparel business break into the mainstream. Titleist became a household name even for non-golfers who wore its caps, shirts, and windbreakers in daily life. In many ways, it proved that even heritage golf brands could carry real fashion credibility when viewed through a Korean lens.
Several years later, PXG took a page out of Titleist’s playbook and followed suit. Korean consumers helped transform the brand from one known largely for irons and loud commercials into something broader and more stylish. PXG apparel’s growth in Korea was explosive, where it found an early audience and turned the category into something more than mere logo merchandise. It is still hard to walk anywhere in Seoul without seeing its palindrome logo.
Malbon’s meteoric rise in the United States was genuine, but its ascent into a global golf lifestyle brand owes much to Korea, where it was elevated by a market already fluent in modern golf style. Korea did not simply embrace Malbon. It pressure-tested the concept, refined its appeal, and helped push it into the global spotlight.
As such, new brands may arrive from abroad, but more often than not, their sharpest evolution happens here. If a brand can earn credibility in Seoul, it’s deemed to have passed one of the toughest style audits in the game.
That is why the next meaningful chapter may not come from outside, but from a Korean brand moving in the opposite direction, carrying those Seoul Sensibilities outward as K-pop once did.
Play young Stay dope.
From Seoul, With Intent
Khalhon is a label that feels less like a trend-chasing newcomer and more like the product of a market that has already seen everything. Golfers here have long been surrounded by luxury logos, technical fabrics, and tour uniforms disguised as lifestyle wear and vice-versa. In other words, novelty alone rarely lasts here, and the Koreans seems to understand that instinctively.
Its style language leans into clean silhouettes, relaxed but tailored proportions, muted palettes, and premium materials that speak quietly but confidently. There is a modern city aesthetic running through it all, with strong layering pieces, thoughtful textures, and subtle branding that suggests sophistication rather than demanding attention.
“Built for the course. Designed beyond it.”
Most importantly, the garments seem designed to blur the line between golfwear and everyday style. Shirts, trousers, knitwear, and outer layers move comfortably between a game of screen golf, a lunch reservation, an airport gate, or an afternoon coffee in Gangnam with friends.
It raises the question of whether this is golfwear that happens to look good off the course, or everyday clothing that performs beautifully on the fairways.
Personally, I have long appreciated Nike Golf for its clean, athletic modernization of golf attire. It also has the useful side effect of making me look like a more serious golfer than I probably am. But off the course, there are times when being instantly identified as the golf guy in a crowd of non-golfers can feel a touch self-conscious.
“Built for the course. Designed beyond it.”
That is part of what drew me to Khalhon, which seemed to blend golf and everyday wear naturally. While some of the outfits may be slightly beyond my personal confidence level, the brand also offers tasteful options for older guys like me who still want to express a little personality without regretting the decision later.
These are not simply flashy outfits worn on the course and then banished to the closet until the next tee time. They work surprisingly well off the course too, and I suspect many of the pieces will still look right a couple of years from now, which would certainly be kinder to my wallet than most golf fashion trends tend to be.
And perhaps that broader lifestyle positioning also helps explain why someone like Sean Wotherspoon would find Khalhon creatively interesting in the first place.
“Built for the course. Designed beyond it.”
“Korea is not only one of the most fashion-forward golf markets in the world, but one of the most fashion-forward markets globally. Korea is ahead, and I love to watch and try to catch up.” – Sean Wotherspoon, Creative Director at Khalhon
Seoul and Beyond
If Khalhon’s rise says something about where Korean golf fashion is today, its relationship with Sean Wotherspoon says even more about where it is heading.
For readers less familiar with Sean Wotherspoon, his arrival at Khalhon is not some routine celebrity endorsement or influencer collaboration. In design and streetwear circles, Wotherspoon is regarded as one of the more influential creative voices of his generation, particularly when it comes to blending nostalgia, storytelling, and contemporary culture into products that people can connect with.
He first gained widespread attention through his now-famous Nike sneaker collaborations, where his vintage-inspired designs and instinct for color helped turn him into one of the defining artists of the late-2010s sneaker era. His work gradually expanded beyond footwear into apparel, automotive collaborations, collectibles, and broader lifestyle design.
Modern golf style now extends well beyond the fairways, where performance and functionality are largely expected by default. And while plenty of brands already make technically competent golfwear, Khalhon seems more focused on designing clothes people would genuinely want to wear even after the round ends.
And when guys at Wotherspoon’s level show genuine interest in working with a Korean golf brand as its new Creative Director, fashion circles tend to sit up and pay attention. There’s already a huge buzz among the fashion-conscious here about upcoming collabs with iconic sports stars and brands.
“My creative direction for Khalhon is disruptive, colorful, nostalgic, and modern. My goal is to blend these avenues seamlessly within each collection.” – Sean Wotherspoon
In chatting with Sean, what stood out most to me was how genuinely energized he sounded about the project itself. Despite having already worked across and countless other creative spaces, he described golf as a completely fresh category for him, saying that Khalhon “will be an amazing vehicle for my design work.”
At the same time, his enthusiasm seemed tied just as much to Korea itself. He spoke openly about admiring Korea’s fashion culture while repeatedly insisting he is still a terrible golfer.
There was something oddly refreshing about that humility. Rather than sounding like a celebrity parachuting into golf simply because the category suddenly became fashionable, Sean sounded genuinely curious about what Korea might do with the category next.
And perhaps that is what makes Khalhon feel interesting right now. The brand feels less like a trend-chaser and more like the natural result of a market now confident enough to export its own point of view.
For years, global brands came to Korea to sharpen their image against one of the most discerning audiences anywhere. Now, a Korean label appears ready to send those Seoul Sensibilities outward instead.
Which brings us back to kkot-saem-chu-i.
That final cold snap before spring always arrives with a reminder that seasons are changing, whether we notice it immediately or not. Golf fashion feels a little like that right now as well, as the old boundaries between sport, streetwear, luxury, and everyday style continue to soften.
And somewhere in Seoul, a Korean golf label already seems prepared for whatever season comes next. I just hope they have everything in my size.
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Iain
Mar 17, 2017 at 5:49 pm
I play golf with a guy who plays music in his golf cart but only between shots. He has the decency to turn it off if someone is having a shot. I like playing golf with him because he plays good music and it helps me relax. He also asks his playing companions if they mind and if they do he will not play music. Love the post
John klobusicky
Mar 7, 2019 at 10:02 pm
I think it’s bullshit and totally inconsiderate for someone to roll up 8n my fouresome with a speaker on. And I they ask me if ok and I reply no then I have created a tension filled environment. Not even sure why it is considered, and I would rather stick needles in my eyes than listen to pop country.
America
Mar 6, 2017 at 10:46 pm
The term decorum comes to mind. If you’re on the beach, next to the ocean, relaxing, and someone sits next to you. This someone has decided to bring a speaker. Not headphones…a speaker. Myself being 5’10 225, a former collegiate rugby player, armed skydiving, running, and push up enthusiast is never one to shy away from a pleasant “how do you do sir/madame could you please turn the level of your terrible music down. i’m here to relax and my therapist said this is really bad for my blood pressure and anger issues. thank you.” If they doth protest I invite them to keep listening. At lower volume that I cannot hear and to please be respectful of others on our beach. If not I begin my inquiry into the waterproof rating of said speaker. Because if they keep playing it i’m going to throw it in the ocean. They are then invited to a)stop me b)hide and watch. Same rules apply on the golf course. Be considerate of those around you. If someone outside your cart can hear your speaker, it’s too loud. Always turn it down when on the tee-box or for social interactions. It’s not a problem until it is a problem. I have encountered plenty of jeans wearing/flat billers on the course imbibing whilst taking in some Chesney. Nay, nay I say. Thou are being that guy. Also please keep the “get off my lawn” chatter to yourself. Things change, I am against the use of oncourse GPS/range devices and believe that you fat sons of bitches should trade in the carts for a push cart or caddie. Different strokes for different folks. Be nice to people. They’ll be nice to you. Then we’ll all be sitting around being nice. Then we’ll start laughing. Then hot chicks show up and show us their titties. Don’t say no to titties.
jc
Mar 6, 2017 at 8:01 pm
what is really bad is when two tees are next to each other..you are ready to hit and here comes dudes with backwards hats and playing crappy loud music…I know there name is dude because every sentence is ‘hey dude, what are you hitting”…I am hitting a driver dude….dude, you really hit that one..
gads…go back to the video arcade
tim crider
Mar 4, 2017 at 7:25 pm
I just listened to the 3 songs you have put in as ( Gotta hear em at least once ) , you must have surely been thinking some place other than the golf course, if at all, and I can ,, and do listen to everything.
Grizz01
Mar 3, 2017 at 8:52 pm
I guess deaf people are not permited to play golf. They can’t hear what’s going on around them.
WolfWRX
Mar 3, 2017 at 7:46 pm
Music has no place on the golf course. End of story. If you want to listen to music that badly, do it at home, in your car, or at a concert. Literally anywhere but the golf course.
Also, the idea that “growing the game” has to necessitate lowering standards by allowing things like music to keep people with short attention spans, and no appreciation of nature entertained, is truly pathetic.
Barry
Mar 4, 2017 at 9:29 am
Great point! Totally agree
BIG STU
Mar 3, 2017 at 7:30 pm
It is funny. I live down here on the Grand Strand on the south end and mostly play on this end. Seriously from what most of you are saying with the tourist golfers we get from all over the country of various ages I have never heard any music on any of the courses I have played or seen anyone with Bluetooth speakers etc. In case anyone wonders I ain’t blind or deaf either I have not seen any signs posted prohibiting it either. Just makes me wonder what is going on elsewhere in the world
Robert
Mar 3, 2017 at 2:18 pm
The thing that bothers me about people playing music on the course isn’t the music. It’s that the people in a cart with the music will talk louder to each other because they have to talk over the music. I’ll be over a shot and hear them yapping when if they didn’t have music going, I wouldn’t ever hear them. That’s the problem that it causes. With that said usually constant noise isn’t really a problem during the swing. Just think about how you can hit balls on a noisy range without issue. The problem comes when it’s silent and something makes a noise that distracts you.
Jose Pinatas
Mar 3, 2017 at 1:41 pm
I like music in a beer drinking charity 4 man scramble….. When I’m playing my own ball and playing money games I don’t want to hear it…. And when drinking and playing a scramble , I love to rage(Clutch, Gogira, Opeth, and Machinehead)…… Besides if people are taking beer drinking charity scrambles serious, they got issues…..
Bob
Mar 3, 2017 at 1:00 pm
It is not the custom to have music while golfing so simply ask those who you are playing with if they mind and don’t play so loud that you offend other groups. I don’t play golf to hear music or nature. I play to be with friends, compete, for the thrill of a well struck shot and to enjoy the outdoors. If you like to spice that up a little, I understand. I’d rather not hear music but if you ask first, I’ll acquiesce because after all it’s the gentlemanly thing to do and golf is a gentlemen’s and gentleladies’ sport. That is a part of golf that should never go away.
David
Mar 3, 2017 at 12:16 pm
Simply against the rules…. From the USGA….
Rule 14-3
Wearing Headphones or Earplugs During Stipulated Round
Q. May I wear headphones or earplugs while playing in the state amateur?
A.
The use of headphones or earplugs to eliminate noise or other distractions is prohibited under Rule 14-3.
Decision 14-3/16 covers listening to music or some other broadcast during a round. Here is the text of that Decision:
Rule 14-3a states that a player may not use any artificial device or unusual equipment that “might assist him making a stroke or in his play.” Listening to music or a broadcast while making a stroke or for a prolonged period might assist the player in his play, for example, by eliminating distractions or promoting a good tempo. Therefore, the use of an artificial device to listen to music or a broadcast, whether or not through headphones, while making a stroke or for a prolonged period of time during a stipulated round is a breach of Rule 14-3. However, it would not be a breach of Rule 14-3 for a player to listen to a device briefly, for example, to obtain the results of another sporting event or traffic information, while walking between the putting green of one hole and the teeing ground of another hole.
There is no restriction on listening to music or other broadcasts while practicing (whether on the practice ground or on the golf course, and whether by oneself or while playing with others), although club rules and disciplinary codes could apply in such circumstances.
BallBuster
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:25 am
Good rules of thumb if you want to play music I suppose. But you missed rule #1… as your group if its even okay by them to play music. Otherwise shut it down. Don’t ruin everyone’s time there and waste their money because for some odd reason you can’t live 2-4 hours without some music. Is someone’s addiction to it that strong like cigarette smoking that they can’t go without without shaking or something? If so, get a live… This also is no different than those who want to talk on the phone during the round. i realize a lot of younger people don’t mind and that’s fine, but find out if everyone in your group thinks like that AND don’t slow up play (worst part of it) so other groups are effected by your selfishness.
FL Golfer
Mar 3, 2017 at 10:02 am
Apparently most of you have never played with some fool that insists on yammering throughout the round. Music is played to drown out the non-sense that continually comes from mouths of other golfers.
KK
Mar 4, 2017 at 5:51 am
An illogical lie. Music doesn’t cause talking to stop.
Mark
Mar 3, 2017 at 9:28 am
I am 59 years old and I play golf occasionally with my old college roommate who is a member at a very nice course. He brings his speaker to play music in the cart. I can’t stand it. What a distraction. The music would be fine in any other setting. Not on the golf course, please.
Radim Pavlicek
Mar 3, 2017 at 3:54 am
I have yet to met someone on the golf course who has speakers. It seems to me that this trend hasn’t come to Europe yet.
Mg
Jun 30, 2019 at 3:25 pm
Consider yourself lucky. Lately I regularly encounter groups playing music loud enough to be heard at 50 yards or more.
Tim
Mar 3, 2017 at 1:04 am
What is the difference, here in California the lower end public courses are dying off daily…music coming out of carts is getting to be way beyond common…and with no marshals at most courses you have everyone driving carts right up (yes in the fringe a lot) to the greens…..and these are men in their 20’s and 30’s…half the time. But by far the worst is the over 60 crowed that think they have the right to drive and park their cart any where they please…yes maybe 1 out of 30 or so is handicapped and should be allowed the better access to his or her ball but when you see 12 out of every 15 carts carrying a blue flag for access it is just plan lazy….
dog
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:15 pm
if you can hear it on more than one occasion, youre not in my group, and it bothering you politely ask me to turn it down and i will happily oblige
Adam
Mar 2, 2017 at 9:24 pm
Unless your name is AL Czervik I don’t want to hear any music on the course. Go to the bar after to hear it.
Thankfully I have not heard anything on my home course, but if I did I would be more than happy to buy you a replacement speaker after the round.
I there to relax and focus on golf, not somebody clowns boom box.
RonB
Mar 3, 2017 at 1:43 pm
And you’d need a replacement eye socket if you think you’re coming over and smashing my speaker. We’ll see how tough you are, tough guy.
The dude
Mar 3, 2017 at 6:16 pm
My dad can beat up your dad..ha…loser..
Adam
Mar 4, 2017 at 10:30 pm
Your a real keyboard warrior. I’m sure boom boxes are fine on the pasture you hack around on..
Jamie
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:36 pm
It’s fine if you play it only at a volume your group can hear and if it’s not nickelback.
Ron
Mar 3, 2017 at 9:03 am
+1
Brian
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:07 pm
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
KillerPenguin
Mar 2, 2017 at 4:40 pm
Bluetooth headset in one ear. Problem solved (and no I don’t care what you think about how it looks).
Tom
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:03 am
Bingo! winner winner
Buford T Justice
Mar 2, 2017 at 3:55 pm
Want good music at the course, check out UE Boom or UE Roll.
UE = Ultimate Ears
In my opinion, they are the best bluetooth speakers for golf.
The Boom fits perfectly in the cart cupholder, and the Roll straps on to just about anything.
Thank me later.
Mark
Mar 2, 2017 at 3:18 pm
Music has no place on the course.
acemandrake
Mar 2, 2017 at 3:05 pm
Is the genie out of the bottle & there is no turning back?
If music is allowed & someone doesn’t like it then they just suffer?
If music in not allowed & someone wants to have it, then what…They’re bored? Might want to rethink why they’re out there.
Tommy
Mar 2, 2017 at 2:49 pm
If you like TV in restaurants, you’re going to love music on the golf course. I consider it the height of boorish and rude behavior. As if, everybody’s got to endure your taste in music for five hours when they’ve paid the same rate as you. What’s going to happen when everyone wants to bore the world with their own playlist and you’ve got four soundtracks competing for earspace on every hole? It’s a ridiculously selfish endeavor but not surprising in our current society. Re the hi/lo division…same reason there’s TV for every table at Buffalo Wild Wings and none at the French Laundry. It seems inevitable, but very sad that this incredibly douche-y behavior is even being argued here. More rude millennial garbage being shoved down our throats and then shouting down any blowback. Rude, at every level. Why should I have to listen to your music? How bout I bring my speakers to your wedding, or to the movies, or to a restaurant, and play what makes me happy there? How bout everybody brings their own music to your favorite restaurant? There is no level at which this isn’t rude and annoying. Ban it, for everyone’s sake.
Joshuaplaysgolf
Mar 2, 2017 at 6:08 pm
To be fair, I’m a millennial and HATE music on the golf course…I’ve seen (or heard rather) plenty of guys my grandfather’s age with way too loud music coming out of the cart. You can’t just blame the younger generations, although that’s most likely where this awful trend started.
Bruce Ferguson
Mar 2, 2017 at 1:53 pm
For me, golf is like fishing. The last thing I want to hear is somebody’s boom box. I like hearing birds, the breeze through the trees, etc. It’s fine having music at a venue like Top Golf. But I’m over 60, before the age of movies on demand and instant/constant entertainment. Guess I’m a grumpy old man . . .
Ron
Mar 3, 2017 at 9:08 am
Makes sense, and anyone playing with you who wants to put on music should ask you first and respect your decision if you say no. And if someone is playing music who is not in your group, it should be at a volume where you can’t hear it. Personally I listen to music every once in a while on the course but always ask permission first within my group and make sure the volume is low enough so other groups won’t hear it. Imagine that, if everyone has some common courtesy, everybody wins! What a crazy concept.
Art
Mar 3, 2017 at 4:22 pm
The funny thing, is that all the people who say “no one does it at my course” blah blah blah, probably don’t realize that there have been people, playing concurrently, that did have music.
I can hear mine on the tee box, in the fairway, and only on the green if it’s close enough to the path. I also pause if I’m driving by any other group.
If you don’t hear it, then, like magic, it’s not there!
“I want to hear nature ” doesn’t fly if you’re flying down the path listening to the engine whine and your clubs clatter at every bump.
ph00ny
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:59 pm
What about music being heard across the hole? If i can hear the previous/next group’s music from tee box/green, there is seriously something wrong. It’s as obnoxious as being able to hear what everyone shot and how well they putted and what their kids are doing from a different group on the course while putting or teeing off.
Steve
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:44 pm
Worry about getting on the Tour first. Then you can have everyone be quiet when you’re putting and teeing off.
larrybud
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:59 am
What about being respectful and courteous to others? Obviously that concept is foreign to you.
Mike Honcho
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:41 pm
Parsing the words of the great Shoot McGavin, “Damn you music playing people! Go back to your shanties.”
Mike Honcho
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:42 pm
Shooter. See just thinking about the music on the course got me distracted.
Scott
Mar 6, 2017 at 12:37 pm
+1
DBJ
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:16 pm
Wow, some of these comments are ridiculous. None of you are good enough at Golf to say if music is good or bad on the golf course. To those of you that constantly reference the rules of golf, and blah blah blah. Only a handful of golfers actually abide by the rules and almost everyone really even know the rules. All these comments from one post to another are the exact reason why golf continues to fade away. Music and loud noise is a part of most other professional sports, and it’s what makes them fun to play and watch. Get your heads out of asses and stop taking this game so seriously. I bet you all talk about your handicaps as well. Well, that is also one of the things that is ruining the game. You are either better than someone or not, no one deserves strokes when playing another person. That is cheating! Take some lessons and invest in your game. I am sure I will have wonderful responses. I hope you enjoy the time trying to correct me. My opinion won’t be changed by what you say, most likely will support it.
TR1PTIK
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:50 pm
+1!!!
If golf is an individual sport then the individual should be able to play however they want. Playing with a group? Ask prior to the round if everyone is okay with your music. It’s pretty simple really, just be respectful with it. I’ve had more distractions from obnoxious beer-guzzling foursomes than I’ve ever had from music. Those of you arguing that we should just enjoy nature and not bring music to the course probably have no idea how much the RIGHT music can add to the experience and enjoyment of being outside. I personally find the music genres I’d normally listen to in my car distracting on the course. I typically play by myself and walk. My preferred choice of music is some form of acoustic and relatively mellow. If I think other players are within earshot, I’ll turn it down a bit more to make sure I don’t disturb anyone. There will always be someone that’s disrespectful and abusive, but that’s no reason to ban music on the course. Otherwise, you guys can just stop putting beer in your carts and smoking on the course. All have the potential to create distractions for someone else.
larrybud
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:57 am
Great, as an individual, I wish to play without music.
MMM
Mar 2, 2017 at 1:09 pm
You do realize that giving someone strokes is more just a gambling thing, right? As a 3.6 index, playing with a buddy who is a 19.2, I’m going to beat him most times we play if we’re just playing straight up……but giving him strokes makes the match more even and, quite frankly, more competitive for me.
Steve
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:41 pm
If you’re not gambling, then who cares if it’s “more competitive”? Why does it matter if you win by 1 or 16 when nothing is on the line?
R0B
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:23 pm
F’n A, bro!
alan
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:15 pm
awesome comment/post
marmooskapaul
Mar 3, 2017 at 8:50 am
Ha…spoken like the man talking loud on his cell phone..while in line at Walmart to pay for his face paint and nascar shirt!
larrybud
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:56 am
I have no idea what kind of nonsense it is to equate ability of play to being a disrespectful asshat on the course by blaring your music, but whatever!
KK
Mar 4, 2017 at 5:56 am
What does ability have to do with being forced to hear someone else’s music? I’m sure you wouldn’t want someone to blast music from his phone as you’re shopping in a store or eating in a restaurant.
marmooskapaul
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:12 pm
Don’t like music on the course…and most likely, I hate your choice of music…what could go wrong??
Jamie
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:59 am
I played at TPC myrtle beach a few years back, had the pleasure of playing behind the new number 1 player in the world. I think all 18 holes could hear Biggie Smalls, and Snoop for 4 hours. i personally loved it, but can see why others hate it
Progolfer
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:53 am
I’m regaining faith in GolfWrx commenters. It seems like we all agree that playing music on the course should be banned. Being at peace and surrounded in nature is a lost art these days…
SlapHappy
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:12 am
Ban it ban it ban it
Double Mocha Man
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:09 am
Music on the golf course is already there. Brooks gurggling, birds chirping, wind blowing (hopefully softly).
Progolfer
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:48 am
+1
Bob
Mar 3, 2017 at 10:14 am
Exactly Mocha Man. That’s one of the reasons I love golf, being out in nature. I don’t play golf at a Rave. so please don’t bring the Rave to the course.
Chris
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:57 am
I loathe music on the course. Ran into it a couple times. First group didnt give a crap how loud it was or who they were bothering. 2nd group was more mindful (turning it way down around greens and nearby t boxes). Both times it was equally as distracting. Drive around town with your crap blaring if you wanna listen to music, dont play golf.
BigKid
Mar 2, 2017 at 12:06 pm
Sounds like you’re a headcase. What do you do when a house on the course is having a party and have music blaring? I agree with others that music should be done respectfully (turning the volume down when others are around). But it sounds like you need to clear the mechanism and stop blaming rhythm and harmony for your poor play.
Chris
Mar 2, 2017 at 1:21 pm
LOL, whatever
Brian
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:48 am
This is my BIGGEST pet peeve in golf right now, I absolutely hate this trend. I’ve literally gotten into multiple arguments with clowns playing music on the course. I dont get it, never will, I HATE music on the golf course. Call me old fashioned but if I wanted to hear your music I wouldnt be on a golf course.
J
Mar 2, 2017 at 5:37 pm
Make sure to tell them to get off your lawn too
Steve
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:34 pm
You’re old fashioned.
alan
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:20 pm
poor baby. unless a course prohibits music, im not sure what your argument could be, hopefully the “clowns” youre arguing with continue to be more mature than yourself or youre likely to walk off with a black eye one of these days. ciao
Mg
Jun 30, 2019 at 3:31 pm
@Alan Do you make a habit of doing unnecessary things on golf courses that distract and annoy people who have paid hard-earned money to play?
Scott
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:16 am
Nick, I 100% disagree with the no head phones comment. Not everyone wants to hear your taste in music. Even at low volumes, music tends to carry at a number of courses, especially courses in subdivisions. It is sometimes hard to ignore. I can be too much of a mental midget, I get distracted and want to know what music is being played. If you want to listen to music, just use your headphones and make everyone happy.
Philip
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:10 am
So your saying as far as one listening to music that they should be respectful to those around them and use some common sense … didn’t realize that these concepts are so foreign that the obvious needs to be said … since it did need to be said it is clear what will happen – people will be self centered and totally ignore others, starting a rash of iron sword fights across the fairways and greens and the rise of battle golf – better dig out that hockey/football gear before heading to the links – just in case :o)
Steve
Mar 2, 2017 at 9:58 am
You’re outdoors surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. What more do you need.
birdie
Mar 3, 2017 at 8:46 am
tom petty always helps
Barry
Mar 2, 2017 at 9:18 am
Clear violation of USGA rules here…
Double Mocha Man
Mar 2, 2017 at 11:31 am
Not the new, more relaxed, rules. 🙂
Art
Mar 3, 2017 at 4:28 pm
I was waiting for that! 😀
birdie
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:58 am
the only issue i have with this is the pretense that the more expensive the round the more likely your music will be frowned upon. as if music on the course is reserved to the low class goat track hackers….If anything, i’ve seen many of the private club members be perfectly ok with and encourage music as long as you’re respectful and following the other rules mentioned.
Music should be heard in the cart while you’re driving from shot to shot. you don’t need to be rocking out to anything while standing on the tee bed and your cart is 20-30 yds away.
M
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:38 am
Agree with this. Out on the west coast most people at high end clubs that have their own golf carts have speakers and a head unit installed in their cart. No one cares and everyone enjoys it. Usually a variety of music (I agree with more calm beat) works great.
Steve
Mar 2, 2017 at 5:07 pm
“No one cares and everyone enjoys it.”
Two questions:
1. If no one cares how can everyone enjoy it?
2. Do you really speak for everyone?
carl spackler
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:44 am
or you could just play golf in silence and enjoy being outdoors, you dont have to be constantly entertained and stimulated.
birdie
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:58 am
get off my lawn!!!
Scott
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:08 am
+1
Tom
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:30 am
that’s scary stuff for city folk
birdie
Mar 3, 2017 at 8:45 am
wait, so country folk don’t like music or something?
Tom
Mar 3, 2017 at 11:06 am
lol…. country mouse(s)love proper tunes.
Jack
Mar 2, 2017 at 8:10 am
Yeah but music in a foursome? That’s not in good taste. You can wear earbuds but just in one ear. Don’t use speakers. Someone will hear it.
LaBraeGolfer
Mar 2, 2017 at 7:58 am
Played some music for the first time on the golf course a couple days ago. I was playing by myself and made sure the music wasn’t a distraction to others around me. I listened to country which is what I love, but I think it helped me maintain some tempo. Often times when I play by myself I tend to play incredibly fast like I have played 18 in 1:15 fast with no one stopping me. What can I say I just can’t wait to hit the next shot.
Tom
Mar 2, 2017 at 10:33 am
geez! 15 min a hole…shazaam!