Have you ever put on a song to push you in your stride when needed? Or did you find yourself crying over someone else’s lyrics? Music, by definition, affects our feelings – determining the way we react to different events.
Music is the ultimate uplifting tool – from getting us going in the morning to easing us out in stressful times. Let’s explore how music makes you feel, how it works – and how you can get the power back!
The Science of Music and Emotions
Music affects your mood through its relationship with your brain’s emotional centers. Music causes your brain to produce dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical that promotes happiness and pleasure. Upbeat songs can lift you, while slower ones can calm you down by lowering your heart rate and cortisol.
Songs like “Happy” by Pharrell Williams or “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves are known mood lifters. At the same time, tracks like “Weightless” by Marconi Union are scientifically designed to lower stress levels.
Upbeat vs Chilled-Out Songs: Their Effects on Mood
Upbeat Music
High-energy, rapid-fire songs are associated with inspiration and optimism. Such songs usually have major chords and energetic drum beats that pump the adrenaline. For example:
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake is ideal for an energy boost.
- “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen is frequently cited as a song that makes listeners feel like they can do anything!
Chilled-Out Music
Mellow, relaxing music that has slower beats and soothing melodies can decrease stress and anxiety. Acoustic, lo-fi or classical music often count. Examples include:
- “Weightless” by Marconi Union – this was once called the “world’s most relaxing song!”
- Songs by the XX, like “Heart Skipped a Beat,” are known for their mellow, minimalist tone.
Our Association With Songs and Memories
It’s hard not to make music about experiences. An instrumental song, for example, which was played at an important time – in a relationship with an ex – can produce nostalgic or even unpleasant feelings when repeated. “Someone Like You” by Adele may break your heart for some, and no emotion at all for others.
In this case, music can embed itself in the memories of the person. But that’s exactly what can happen with happy memories — someone might want to hear a certain song over and over, just because it’s pleasant to hear, while someone else might not care!
Music for different situations
You can use the appropriate music to handle your daily struggles and create uplifting feelings. Here are a few of your best examples of what music you need to play.
| Situation | Music Type | Artist | Song |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus and Productivity | Instrumental (Classical, Electronic) | Vivaldi, Telepopmusik | “Spring from Four Seasons”, “Breathe” |
| Workouts | Fast-tempo tracks with strong beats | Survivor, Eminem | “Eye of the Tiger”, “Lose Yourself” |
| Relaxation | Ambient or chill music | ODESZA, Various Artists | “Bloom”, Acoustic covers of your favorite song |
| Emotional Release | Sad songs | Adele, Coldplay | “Someone Like You”, “Fix You” |
| Celebrations | Upbeat party anthems | ABBA, Bruno Mars | “Dancing Queen”, “Uptown Funk” |
How Music is Used in Marketing
Marketers are acutely aware of music’s ability to influence buying decisions. At shops, fast music might motivate speed and impulsive purchases; slower music might keep people around longer.
In fast food restaurants, loud music is often used to make things noisy and to make it easier for customers to leave. Meanwhile, luxury brands use jazz-like or chilled instrumentals to express class and entice more time spent in the shop.
Jingles, like McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It”, are crafted to leave lasting impressions and ensure that the brand stays top of mind, and that people have positive connotations of the brand.
Adverts often use emotionally charged songs like “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane to create memorable, feel-good moments.
In a casino, music can be used as a tool carefully curated to keep you engaged. Fast-paced, upbeat tunes often fill the gaming floors to boost energy – it encourages gamers to play longer, with a sense of excitement. Interestingly, online casinos can’t use music to the same level, although they do tend to overlay sound effects to their games.
The music helps you construct your feelings and experiences. If you’re looking for inspiration, self-improvement or inspiration — there’s a song or genre for every mood and occasion. And even better, you can use music to be more productive, feel stronger or to get you through the rough times!
