A web site is not linear, and shouldn't be treated as such. To do so is to ignore the fact that any user can view any page on your site at any time, in no particular order. Unfortunately, many music sites are still using frames, making bookmarking tough or impossible. The two most important factors to consider when presenting your written content are readability and printability. Both are killed easily by bad backgrounds.
Readability is enhanced by contrast.
It's much easier to read black text on a white background than pink text on a green background. By far the most common background mistake in music sites, though, is the use of a black background. However, if you believe your content is valuable enough for visitors to print, you should stick to black text on white background. Using patterned backgrounds is almost always a great way to confuse the reader. The best way to make your site totally impersonal is to use feedback forms.