[garyhope]

I’ve written many letters to both Starbuck’s and Barnes & Noble complaining about the constant din of unavoidable music which for me ruins the prospect of sitting and having a moment of peace and quiet to read or think.

I thought there were supposed to be some quiet places where noise was prohibited. I must be naive and out of it.

Sometimes at both Starbuck’s and B&N, you can ask them to please turn down the music if you can find a clerk (yes, a clerk, not an “associate”) who is at least semi literate and knows how to use a knob and they may even comply. They’re not “allowed” to turn it completely off without incurring the wrath of “corporate”. Gotta sell them CD’s!!

[GOPJ]

I've had the same problem in restaurants. Dreadful "music" is played, but worse, the level it's played at is chosen by the kitchen and wait staff... Once, after being told the customers liked it, I walked around to the tables near me and asked. To a person they resented having to shout over the noise. Then I asked for the manager and explained "all of us" wanted it turned down or off or whatever. People were waving and smiling support -- it was turned down... Still, it's easier to vote with my feet and take myself and my money elsewhere...

[TenthAmendmentChampion]

Starbucks has its own channel on XM! They have to play it in all stores, of course.