The Devil has all the best tunes

Definitions

• discourage someone
  Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

• acknowledge the appeal of something negative
  Acknowledge that something undesirable or morally wrong can still be attractive or appealing

Examples of The Devil has all the best tunes

• Sarah loves attending electronic dance music (EDM) festivals, but she often finds herself drawn to the harder, more intense tracks played by the lesser-known artists. Her friends tease her, saying, "The devil must have composed those tunes - they're so addictive!"

  This idiom is used to describe something that is irresistibly alluring, despite its potentially negative qualities. In this example, the friends are jokingly implying that the harder EDM tracks have such powerful appeal that they seem to be created by some mysterious, otherworldly force. Within the metaphor, the devil represents the darker aspects of human nature, such as temptation or addiction, while "tunes" or music represents the alluring force that can draw people in. When used to describe something that is pleasantly alluring, this idiom may also be used metaphorically to describe a person's charm, or someone who can persuade or manipulate others.

• Despite being a notorious criminal, John's charisma and charm made it hard for the police to resist his spell. They often joked that "the Devil has all the best tunes" when it came to John, as his smooth talking and persuasive nature left them feeling powerless in his presence.

  This idiom is used to describe someone who has a certain appeal or ability to influence others in a way that is difficult to resist, despite potentially having negative qualities or characteristics. Essentially, it implies that there is something captivating or mesmerizing about this person, much like the tempting allure of music, that draws people in and makes them want to conform to their will. By using this idiom in this context, it helps to convey the idea that John's criminal past and actions may not necessarily be indicative of his true character or appeal, and that there is something about him that goes beyond mere criminality.

• Sometimes, when I listen to different genres of music, I notice that the most captivating and addictive tunes are often associated with negative or controversial aspects of society. This pattern has led me to think that "The Devil has all the best tunes."

  The phrase "The Devil has all the best tunes" is idiomatic and implies that creative works that evoke strong emotions, whether positive or negative, are often linked to morally uncertain or taboo themes. The metaphorical idea of the devil representing anything contrary to traditional values or concepts of good and evil is being used to suggest that it is exactly these topics that catch our attention and move us deeply. This idiom offers a way to explain why some artists specialize in the darker or more risqué aspects of life and why their work tends to receive more critical acclaim or financial success.

• After seeing a sexually explicit movie, I found myself humming the catchy song from its soundtrack long after the film had ended. This experience made me think that "The Devil has all the best tunes," as the song, despite its explicit content, had stuck in my head and left a lasting impression.

  The phrase is also used to describe how certain topics can be both captivating and dangerous, like a devilish lure that draws us in despite their potential harm. This use of the idiom highlights the paradox of being enthralled by artistic works that challenge our values while acknowledging the potential risks involved in engaging with such themes.

• When I heard a song with an infectious beat and provocative lyrics, I initially found myself rejecting it. But then I realized that "The Devil has all the best tunes," and I couldn't help but listen to it repeatedly, despite its questionable content.

  This use of the idiom suggests that the simple pleasure of the music, or the entertainment value of the artistic work, can sometimes outweigh our moral objections. The idiom offers a way to explain why audiences may initially reject certain pieces of entertainment but ultimately succumb to their appeal, underscoring the power and allure of creative works that tread into taboo territory.

Conclusion

The idiom "The Devil has all the best tunes" is used to discourage someone from a particular action or to acknowledge the appeal of something negative. When used to discourage, it is often used to caution against engaging in a particular activity or task by suggesting that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit. When used to acknowledge the appeal of something negative, it is used to recognize that something undesirable or morally wrong can still be attractive or appealing.

Origin of "The Devil has all the best tunes"

The origin of the idiom "The Devil has all the best tunes" can be traced back to the 18th century in England. It is based on the idea that music or entertainment associated with the Devil or sinful activities can be more appealing or attractive than those associated with good or virtuous things. The idiom reflects the recognition that sometimes things that are considered bad or evil can still hold a strong allure or attraction for people, despite their negative connotations. The phrase has since been used to convey the idea that even though something may be morally wrong or undesirable, it can still hold a certain appeal or attractiveness. For example, a person might use the idiom to acknowledge that a particular temptation or indulgence holds a strong allure, even though they know it is not morally right.