LiveRoulette’s Ultimate Online Casino Playlist

There seems to be a “world” day for almost everything these days. From World Baking Day in May to World Say Something Nice Day in June, there’s a constant stream of reminders about the good things in life. One day that’s designed to get everyone moving and grooving is World Music Day. Taking place in June every year, the celebration originated in France, where it’s known as Fête de la Musique.

Jack Lang, Minister of Culture of France, and Maurice Fleuret, a composer, were behind the initiative. Their vision was to get people sharing their musical talents. “Music everywhere and the concert nowhere” was the slogan they adopted ahead of the first event in 1982. Since then, World Music Day has become an international affair.

Rather fortunately, this day of musical appreciation also falls around our first birthday celebrations. We love music, so, in the spirit of celebration, we’ve decided to countdown our top tracks relating to all things casino. What’s more, these picks are the perfect accompaniment to your online casino experience here at LiveRoulette.

1. Lady Gaga – Poker Face (2008)

Poker is often described as battle of wits disguised as a game of cards. Lady Gaga certainly took that idea to heart when she released Poker Face. Far from using poker terminology unnecessarily, Gaga links phrases like “I wanna hold’em like they do in Texas, please” and “can’t read my poker face” to allusions of love. Indeed, the idea that love is often a game fits perfectly with the analogies to poker.

2. Pinball Wizard – The Who (1969)

If you ever need a song to get you moving while you play online casino games, Pinball Wizard is it. The Who’s story of a deaf, dumb, and blind kid playing pinball like a pro is full of energy. As you listen, you get the sense of a game in motion. How the kid plays, we don’t know. All we know is that he can.

3. Money – Pink Floyd (1973)

You shouldn’t play online casino games for the money alone. Playing should be fun and rewarding and not as a means for financial gain. It can be hard to ignore the prizes on offer when you play roulette, slots, and blackjack. Pink Floyd’s Money is all about the high life. Painting pictures of exuberance, the song tells tales of a lavish world where high rollers live a life of luxury.

4. Viva Las Vegas – Elvis Presley (1964)

Part of The King’s crown certainly lies in Las Vegas. At the height of his career, he spent seven years performing in Sin City on a weekly basis. Such was his affinity with Vegas, that fans of Elvis often call the period between 1969 and 1976 as the “Vegas Years”. As a prelude to his Sin City experience, Viva Las Vegas became a hit for Presley. Capturing the spirit of the gambling hub, the song (originally written for a movie of the same name) really does get you in the mood for gaming action.

5. Tumbling Dice – Rolling Stones (1972)

Tumbling Dice was famously recorded in the basement of a chateau in France. It peaked at number 5 in the UK charts and #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Aside from the links between dice and online casino games like Craps, the boogie-woogie rhythm really pulls you in. Many gamers talk about going into the zone when they play. Well, this song will really get you into a nice groove.

6. Huck’s Tune – Bob Dylan (2007)

Anyone that’s a fan of online casino and poker gaming will know the movie Lucky You. Although its depiction of poker was a far cry from what the iconic Rounders achieved, the movie did produce one good thing: Huck’s Tune. A sombre, reflective song, Huck’s Tune paints a picture of a lonely road the gamblers had to walk before things turn in their favour.

7. Ace of Spades – Motorhead (1980)

If you’ve never listened to Ace of Spades, you’re missing out on a piece of rock history. If Motorhead never released another song, their status as musical icons would be set thanks to this one. Like Lady Gaga, the band uses poker as a motif for love. However, unlike Poker Face, Ace of Spades hits you full-force with its rip-roaring chords and all-out rock vibes.

8.The Stranger Song – Leonard Cohen (1967)

Part song, part reading, Leonard Cohen’s The Stranger Song tells the story of a woman burned by love. Throughout the song, men are compared to dealers, casino veterans always chasing the next high from the turn of a card. The implication is that the men this woman has met are never focused on the present. Instead, they want to keep playing the cards (women) and chase the next unknown. 

9. The Card Cheat – The Clash (1979)

You have to be prepared for some ups and downs when you play online casino games. Even with all the knowledge and skill in the world, there are times when things won’t be on your side. The Card Cheat is a reminder of this. When a man down on his luck decides to game the system, he’s quickly found out. Wise words from The Clash.

10. The Gambler – Kenny Rogers (1978)

We couldn’t end our list without including arguably the most famous gambling song of all time. The Gambler by Kenny Rogers is as much of a lesson in life as a guide to playing cards. You have to know when to stand and fight, and when to walk away. This life lesson is taught from the perspective of a poker player looking at his cards, wondering whether to “hold’em” or whether to “fold’em”. If you need a reminder of how to approach online casino gaming, as well as a great song to keep you entertained, The Gambler it is.

To celebrate World Music Day and our first birthday, play online casino games at LiveRoulette, turn on some tunes, and have some fun!

18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Terms & Conditions apply.

Your Ultimate Guide to Poker Betting Basics

There are lots of variants of poker out there, but all revolve around betting. And if you want to get into playing poker, or want to improve your play, it’s vital to understand how poker betting rules work.

Here we explain the basics of how to bet on poker, including the general rules of poker betting and common poker betting terminology. We’ll cover calling, raising, buy-ins and royal flushes.

How does betting work in poker?

Different variants of poker will have different twists on poker betting, but most forms of poker are played as variations on the following:

  1. Players place forced bets before the cards are dealt.
  2. The dealer distributes each players’ cards.
  3. Players then place bets based on their cards, either calling or raising or checking. Some players may fold, bowing out of that round. Some forms of poker have structured rounds of betting, such as the pre-flop, flop, turn, and river of Texas Hold’em.
  4. After the rounds of betting finish, if there are still players remaining, the showdown happens, where players show their hands of cards and the winner is revealed (the player with the highest value hand).
  5. Sometimes the showdown won’t be reached, and all players except one will fold, leaving the one remaining player as the winner of that round. Sometimes that player will have the best hand, but sometimes they’ll hold a weak hand but will manage to successfully bluff the other players into thinking they’ve got a strong one.

How to Bet in Poker – Poker Betting Actions

In most games of poker, when it’s your turn to bet, you’ll have four different options:

  1. Call: You match the amount of the previous bet placed.
  2. Raise: You increase the amount of the previous bet. The next player to bet then must meet that bet if they want to stay in that round. Raising when the previous player also raised is called a re-raise.
  3. Fold: You discard your hand, bowing out of that round of betting, forfeiting what you’ve already placed in the pot (whether you dramatically push your cards into the middle of the table or not is up to you).
  4. Check: At the start of a round, before the first open bet has been made, you pass the action on to the next player to your left without placing a bet but without folding, staying in that round of betting.

Betting Order

Betting in poker typically moves clockwise around the table, with the first player to the left of the dealer placing the first bet. There are some variants on this for different versions of poker though:

  • In games of poker that use a blinds system (an initial round of forced bets), the first player to the left of the big blind begins. Bets then move clockwise around the table.
  • In games that use antes and a bring-in system (another round of forced bets), it’s typical that the player with the weakest face-up card is the first player to bet. The action then moves clockwise around the players.

Blinds and antes in poker

Lots of variants of poker require players to place “forced bets” before the cards are dealt. This means the pot begins with money already in it, and players making commitments, before the action commences.

The most common types of forced bets are blinds and antes:

Blinds in poker

With poker variants that use blinds, like Texas Hold’em and Omaha, two players post blind bets before the cards are dealt. They’re called blinds as the bets are made ‘blind’ without any cards being seen.

The first player posts a “small blind” and the next player to their left posts the “big blind”, which is double the small blind. The cards are dealt, then the first player to the left of the big blind places the first bet.

Responsibility for posting the small and big blind usually rotates clockwise around the table.

Ante bets in poker

With ante bets, used in draw poker and stud poker, all the players at the table put an equal amount of money (or chips) into the pot before the cards are dealt. This ensures that each player has an incentive to bet, and that players will lose money if they fold. The value of the ante bet will typically be determined before the game begins.

Some forms of poker combine both blind bets and ante bets, with ante bets being placed before the small blind and the big blind.

Poker-hand rankings: from strongest to weakest

Most variants of poker use the same ranking of poker hands, meaning once you’ve learned it, you’ll easily be able to pick up new versions of poker.

Poker hands are ranked from the highest to the lowest, as:

  • Royal Flush – you hold an Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all of the same suit.
  • Straight Flush – you hold any five cards that form an unbroken sequence, all of the same suit, such as a 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
  • Four of a Kind – four of your five cards are all of the same ranking, such as four 2s or four Queens.
  • Full House – three of your cards are the same ranking, and the other two are of the same ranking, such as three Kings and two 3s.
  • Flush – all five of your cards are of the same suit.
  • Straight – you have five cards that form an unbroken sequence, not of the same suit.
  • Three of a Kind – three of your cards are the same ranking, whilst the other two are of any ranking.
  • Two Pairs – you have two pairs of cards of equal ranking, such as a pair of 3s and a pair of Aces.
  • One Pair – you have two cards of the same ranking, like two 7s.
  • High Card – you can’t make any of the hands above, so your hand is valued as the highest ranking single card you have.

Buy-ins and Poker Chips

In poker games played in casinos – and in plenty of other cash games – players bet using coloured poker chips. In most cases, different colours of chips have different values, giving players options when placing bets and making it easy to identify how much is being bet and how much the pot is worth.

When you sit at a poker table for a cash game, you’ll have to “buy-in”. The buy-in is the amount of money you need to have with you to sit down at the table. You’ll exchange your buy-in for poker chips.

Poker betting limits

When it’s your turn to place a bet in poker, you may have limits on how much you’re allowed to bet. These limits, or lack of them, come in four common types: no-limit, pot-limit, fixed-limit and spread-limit:

No-limit poker bets

With no-limit poker games, any player can bet any value of chips they want to on one single bet, after the blind bets are made. A player can even bet all of their chips at one time, called “going all-in”.

Pot-limit poker bets

Unlike no-limit games, with pot-limit games, the maximum bet that can be made is determined by the size of the pot in the middle of the table.

Most pot-limit games limit the highest raise to the total value of the pot. If the pot is ÂŁ100, then the highest bet that can be made is ÂŁ100. Some versions of pot-limit use a half-pot-limit. So if the value of the pot is ÂŁ100, the highest bet that can be made is ÂŁ50.

As a round of poker progresses, the pot grows. This means that the stakes of pot-limit poker games typically rise over time, with players making larger raises as the pot increases.

Fixed-limit poker bets

With fixed-limit betting, the maximum amount that can be bet is determined at the beginning of the round by the dealer. Some casino tables will operate with the same fixed limit for every round.

Spread–limit poker bets

A game of poker that uses spread-limit betting allows players to make raises within a specified limit.

The specified limit could be a “one to five limit” which means each player can bet between ÂŁ1 to ÂŁ5, with ÂŁ5 being the highest raise. Some spread-limit games allow for a higher final bet in a betting round, like “ten on the end”, where players can bet up to ÂŁ10 on the final bet.

Simple poker betting strategy

Poker is a game based on probability. But it also involves psychology and being able to successfully bluff the other players you’re competing with for the pot. If you’re holding a strong hand, it sometimes doesn’t pay to go all-in, whilst if you have a weak hand, you don’t have to always fold. Try to use the following poker betting strategy:

  1. Play fewer hands, but play those hands aggressively: If you try to play too many hands, especially when you have weak hands, you’ll bleed away your chips. It’s typically more effective to fold on weak hands but to bet aggressively on stronger hands, making calls and raises.
  2. Don’t go all-in on strong hands: You should play aggressively on strong hands, but don’t go all-in. If you think you have the best hand at the table, you want to place bets that other players will call, to ensure they stay in the betting and that you can grow the pot as much as possible.
  3. Know when to bluff: If you bluff too often, the other players at the table will realise and will begin to call you on it. You need to bluff with thought. Bluff on hands you have cards to improve on, like straight draws or flush draws.
  4. Fold when in doubt: As well as bluffing too often, another way to lose quickly in poker is to call too often. If you have a strong hand, play aggressively. If you have a hand with options, you can bluff aggressively. But if you’re unsure whether to call or fold, it’s sensible to fold.
  5. Attack when your opponents show signs of weakness: If another player checks, it’s usually because they have a weak hand. Call and raise to try and get that player to fold.

Is online poker betting different?

The vast majority of online poker betting games use the same rules as the real-life equivalent. If you’re playing Pot-Limit Omaha online, the betting rules will be the same as real-life Pot-Limit Omaha.

Whatever type of poker you’re playing online, make sure you understand the poker betting rules of that game before you bet serious money. You can usually find the rules of a game in the information menu.

Although the same poker betting rules are typically used online, online poker betting tends to be faster-paced than real-life betting, and usually for smaller amounts of money.

Play poker with Grosvenor Casinos

Now that you’ve learned the basics of poker betting rules and poker betting strategy, you can try your hand at poker with Grosvenor Casinos. You can play poker in person at one of our 52 casino venues in the UK or you can join one of our poker tournaments.

You can also play poker online with us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from the comfort of your home or even on the go on your phone or tablet. Download our dedicated Grosvenor Casinos Poker app for free on either your iOS or Android device. Take a look at our online poker promotions and join Grosvenor Casinos today.

 

Ultimate Guide to a San Diego Casino & Resort Weekend Getaway

If you’re looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway in San Diego, look no further than Sycuan Casino and Resort. With a range of luxurious amenities, thrilling casino games, and exciting activities, Sycuan is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape for a few days of relaxation, indulgence, and excitement.

In this guide to planning your perfect weekend getaway to Sycuan, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your trip a success.

Overview of Sycuan Casino and Resort

Sycuan is San Diego’s premier casino and resorts, and it’s easy to see why. With a stunning location in the heart of the Dehesa Valley, Sycuan offers world-class amenities, thrilling casino games, and exciting activities for everyone.

Available Amenities

Sycuan is packed with amenities designed to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. From the state-of-the-art casino to the luxurious spa, outdoor activities, and stunning golf course, Sycuan also offers an endless array of options for relaxation and indulgence.

The casino at Sycuan Casino and Resort offers a wide range of games to suit all types of players, from beginners to high rollers. Whether you prefer slots, table games, or poker, Sycuan has something for everyone.

When you’re not at the casino, Sycuan offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and more. If you prefer to relax, check out the spa facilities available at the resort, where you can enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments.

Location and Transport

Getting to the property is easy, thanks to the resort’s convenient location. Located just 20 minutes east of downtown San Diego, Sycuan is easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing service.

Once you arrive at the resort, getting around is easy too. Sycuan also offers a shuttle service to nearby attractions, and taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.

Planning the Getaway

When planning your perfect weekend getaway to Sycuan Casino and Resort, there are a few key things to consider.

Accommodation and Rates

Sycuan offers a range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious suites to comfortable guest rooms, there’s an option for everyone.

When choosing your accommodation, be sure to consider your budget and any specific needs or preferences you may have. We also offer packages and special deals, so be sure to check our website for the latest offers.

Casino Games and Activities

One of the biggest draws of Sycuan Casino and Resort is, of course, the casino! With a range of slot machines, table games, and poker options available, Sycuan offers something for every type of gambler.

If you’re new to gambling, don’t worry – Sycuan offers beginner’s classes and free lessons to help you get started. And if you’re not interested in gambling, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy at the resort. Try your hand at golf, go for a swim, or take a hike through the surrounding countryside.

Seemingly Endless Offers For Our Players

Club Sycuan is a loyalty program offered by Sycuan Casino Resort that provides its members with a range of exclusive benefits and offers. As a member, you will have access to discounts on dining, gaming, hotel stays, and other resort amenities, as well as special promotions, events, and offers throughout the year. Top rewards include cash back, freeplay, dining offers, membership pricing at golf shop, Personalized host services and more. Joining Club Sycuan is easy, and members can earn rewards and benefits simply by playing their favorite games, dining at the resort’s restaurants, and enjoying all that Sycuan has to offer. Whether you’re a casual player or a frequent visitor, Club Sycuan is the perfect way to get more out of your time at Sycuan Casino Resort.

Dining Options

Sycuan is also known for its top-notch dining options. From fine dining to casual meals, on site we have a range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal or a quick bite to eat, you’ll find plenty of options at Sycuan. What dining options does Sycuan have in store for you?

Pink Buddha – The Pink Buddha at Sycuan Casino Resort is a contemporary Asian-fusion restaurant offering a unique dining experience with a menu featuring traditional dishes with a modern twist. Menu items are inspired but cuisines from China, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines and Hawaii

Double Down Grill – Located near the bingo hall, Double Down Grill at Sycuan Casino Resort is a casual dining spot specializing in classic American comfort food, offering a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and other hearty fare.

Bull and Bourbon – Bull & Bourbon at Sycuan Casino Resort is multi-sensory experience and high-end steakhouse offering a menu of premium cuts of meat, as well as a selection of seafood and other dishes, in a sophisticated and upscale setting.

Corner Deli & Pizza – Corner Deli & Pizza at Sycuan Casino Resort is a casual dining option offering a menu of classic deli sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and other quick bites, perfect for a convenient and satisfying meal. You can even check out signature creations like The Strikeout curated by Padres All-Star Pitcher Joe Musgrove

Viewpoint Neighborhood Kitchen – Viewpoint Neighborhood Kitchen at Sycuan Casino Resort is a modern eatery offering a menu of elevated comfort food and signature cocktails in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere with scenic views. The restaurant provides a unique dining experience, showcasing the best of casual cuisine in a stylish and welcoming setting.

Rank & File – As a traditional American restaurant serving a menu of classic dishes, including burgers, wings, sandwiches, and other comfort foods, with tasty food in a casual and family-friendly atmosphere. With its focus on hearty, satisfying fare, Rank & File is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a great meal with friends and family.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Sycuan has a range of entertainment options, including live music, comedy shows, and more. Check our website for the latest events and schedule your trip around a show or concert to make your getaway even more memorable.

And when the sun goes down, the fun is just getting started at Sycuan. The resort offers a range of nightlife options, including bars, lounges, and a nightclub, so you can keep the party going all night long.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Weekend Getaway

Are you in need of a weekend escape? Look no further than Sycuan Casino and Resort in San Diego! With its luxurious amenities, thrilling casino games, and exciting activities, Sycuan Casino and Resort is the perfect destination for anyone looking to indulge in some relaxation, fun, and excitement. And to help you make the most of your weekend getaway, we’ve compiled a list of tips to keep in mind during your stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a fun-filled family trip, or a memorable getaway with friends, Sycuan Casino and Resort has everything you need to make your weekend unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Sycuan Casino and Resort!

Know the Rules and Regulations

Before you start your gambling adventure, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the casino. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Manage Your Budget

Set a budget for your trip and stick to it. Sycuan has a range of pricing options and packages, so it’s easy to find the perfect option to fit your budget. It’s important to manage your spending to make sure you have a fun, stress-free trip.

Take Advantage of Promotions

We also often offer a variety of promotions throughout the year, including special deals on rooms, dining, and entertainment. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the latest offers and promotions.

Use Loyalty Programs

Don’t forget about our Club Sycuan loyalty program that provides a range of benefits, including discounts on dining and accommodations, free play at the casino, and more. Sign up for Club Sycuan to start earning rewards and making the most of your trip.

Stay Connected and Keep Informed

Stay connected with Sycuan on social media and our website to stay informed about upcoming events, promotions, and other news. This will help you plan your trip and ensure that you don’t miss out on any exciting activities or deals.

At Sycuan, we understand the importance of balancing emotion and logic to create an unforgettable experience. We want to provide our guests with an escape from our daily routine, a chance to relax and indulge in the finer things in life, while also ensuring our safety and comfort.

With our world-class amenities, stunning location, and top-notch service, Sycuan Casino and Resort is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway. Book your stay today and start planning your perfect trip!