Why is music so vital in our everyday lives? Although it doesn’t seem like a necessary component to writing out history notes, playing wall ball by myself, or walking to the bus stop, I can always find myself listening to music at these times. So why is it such a key component in my daily routine anyways?
My music taste varies from the activity I’m doing. If I am doing notes, then you can hear me listening to some music that sounds like a lullaby with no words in it so that it can improve my mood without discouraging my focus from the task. I always listen to music while writing.
Whenever I try to explain my taste, I’m not really sure what to say. On social media, I typically see comments that have a certain tone to them when it comes to “music tastes.” People hold this topic very dearly, and it’s a bit confusing.
Music taste is the type of music that one listens to. Whether it be grunge, alternative, indie rock, lo-fi, and much more. But when it comes to people who gatekeep their music taste or don’t allow people to listen to their favorite artists, it becomes toxic. Music is art. And art should be respected.
My next point would be just how harmful music is. Speaking from experience, music can make you sad, upset, happy, glad. Music can switch around anyone’s mood in just an instant. This morning, I had Spanish first period. Every year, the Spanish hallway has a Cinco de Mayo celebration including dancing, eating, singing, and many more activities.
I personally did not do the karaoke, but hearing Bad Bunny’s ‘Tití Me Preguntó’ brought my mood up as I headed back to my class to pack up my stuff.
However, not only can music improve one’s mood, but it can also have a negative impact on the brain. According to a study done by the Children’s Hospital, New Orleans, it is stated that “music can also induce harmful effects, particularly when it comes to rumination.” Rumination is repetitive thinking about negative things and/or dwelling on negative things.
Considering both sides of music, it could never make anyone stop listening. Yes, you shouldn’t be addicted to music and listening to it consistently, but as long as your listening time is joyful and balanced, and as long as it isn’t being used when it isn’t necessary, then your relationship with music could be a positive thing.
