The Queen's Earplugs

If I started singing in the supermarket, I'd empty the place.

The noise in the stadium during the opening ceremonies was notoriously loud. She probably didn't have anything against the music. Just protecting her hearing.

Bags
I don't mind a bit of background music occasionally - I just don't want it to obliterate any attempt at having a conversation or to prevent my brain from deciding whether to buy a lollo rosso lettuce or a little gem. I am well known in my family for singing and whistling along to music in public - not always appreciated by aforementioned family - 'Muuuum, don't be sooooo embarrassing'

I like any Christmas music in shops. (at Christmas!) In fact, I like any music in shops. Relaxing.

Which is what it's supposed to be.

RELAXING? RELAXING? (asked as in the style of "HANDBAGS?")

Yes.

But I swear I don't buy any more stuff because of it. So I do^ defeat them.

And humming along can be something to do whilst waiting for others to decide what to buy.

Here is the missing ^

Sorry, for those of you who are pedants, bless you, that should have read " A HANDBAG?". Off for a cup of caffeine the brain's going soggy.

No. It should have read A HANDBAG???!!!!

Give it some welly.

Sometimes backgound noise is good for my tinnitus but other times it hinders my ability to hear things I need to hear!

Not long ago whilst trying to enjoy a drink and chat in a pub our friend went to ask the barman if the music could be turned down. 'Trouble with old people like you is you don't like music' was his reply...we left soon after. It is true that music is played deliberately loudly to prevent conversation and to make people just drink and buy more. It is no wonder younger people cannot meet /new friends /people/partners socially and have to use online dating !!