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Flying through Heathrow this summer? You might hear this first-of-its-kind track

CNN's profile
Original Story by CNN
July 10, 2025
Flying through Heathrow this summer? You might hear this first-of-its-kind track

Context:

London's Heathrow Airport has partnered with Grammy-nominated musician Jordan Rakei to create 'Music for Heathrow,' a unique audio experience composed entirely from sounds recorded within the airport. Rakei had exclusive access to Europe's busiest airport, capturing over 50 distinct sounds from locations such as the airfield and baggage handling areas. The composition includes everyday airport noises like passport stamping and baggage handling, as well as pop culture references, enhancing travelers' holiday experiences. The track also pays homage to Brian Eno's 'Music for Airports,' offering a four-minute ambient loop designed to set a relaxing mood for passengers. In addition to 'Music for Heathrow,' the airport will host live music concerts, further enriching the atmosphere for the 250,000 travelers expected daily during the summer season.

Dive Deeper:

  • Jordan Rakei has crafted 'Music for Heathrow,' a groundbreaking track using sounds solely recorded from Heathrow Airport, offering travelers an immersive auditory experience as they begin their journeys.

  • More than 50 unique sounds were captured by Rakei, who had unprecedented access to the airport, including the airfield and various operational areas, ensuring a wide array of authentic ambient noises.

  • The composition features recognizable sounds such as passports being stamped and announcements, and Rakei has cleverly incorporated Easter eggs from films like 'Bend It Like Beckham' and 'Love Actually' to enhance its cultural resonance.

  • Paying tribute to Brian Eno's classic 'Music for Airports,' the new track aims to create an ambient atmosphere that calms and prepares passengers for their travels with its four-minute loop.

  • Heathrow Airport is not only introducing 'Music for Heathrow' but is also reviving live music performances, hosting multiple concerts to entertain and uplift the spirits of the vast number of travelers passing through.

  • This initiative is part of a broader trend among airports to improve passenger experiences through music, similar to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport's rooftop concert for its 50th anniversary.

  • By integrating music into the travel experience, Heathrow aims to transform the typically stressful airport environment into a more pleasant and engaging space for international travelers.

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