From the moment we hear the first utterance of musical notes from our baby mobiles, it is obvious how much of an impact music can have. This effect is perhaps most profound and noticeable in the context of our emotions. In such a way, songs have the ability to brighten happiness, deepen despair and accomplish everything in-between. But how does this mechanism work in a scientific context? Is there any substance to the idea that just listening to music can change your mood and even effect your decision making? I endeavour to address these questions from a scientific standpoint.
One of the clearest representations of the power of music can be seen on a daily basis – typically leaving us completely unawares. This avenue is known as advertising, and boasts one of the most prominent and scientific uses of music in the world. In this context, emotions associated with spending and needing are constantly reinforced – such as sadness, longing and jealousy. Such emotional transmissions are achieved in a variety of ways. For example, low level sombre music could be used in a life insurance commercial – with the sadness evoked hoping to guide your thoughts to the finite nature of life and guide your wallet to purchasing life insurance. On the other hand, new car commercials play roaring and enthusiastic tracks. This aims to raise your mood to excitement and thrill; suggestive of your emotions if you were to purchase the car.
The chemicals involved with music as the causation of emotion are important in understanding how music can manipulate us so effectively. The most substantial substance here is the neurotransmitter dopamine – responsible for the ‘feel-good’ emotions of our brains. In the car commercial example, the exciting music will lead to extra dopamine release. This occurs in the exact same way as when we eat a delicious meal, make someone laugh or generally evoke good emotions. Subsequently, the chemistry is exactly the same; once we hear uplifting music, dopamine binds to a region of the brain called the NAc – allowing our brains to experience those joyful emotions. It is also important to note that the regions of the brain play a role in our emotions. The situation is once again mirrored by music – whereby the left frontal region of the brain shows increased activity under musical stimulus. However, it is clear to realise that there is a difference between ‘liking’ a song and truly experiencing it on an emotional level. The songs we really love evoke all kinds of extra physiological reactions – from increased ventilation to faster heartbeats.
However, one of the most natural applications of music comes from listening to songs that reflect our mood, rather than affect it. We’ve all been there – listening to Sam Smith because of heartbreak, or Adele because we feel dramatic. However, it is possible to use our knowledge of music affecting emotions to change this. In such a way, if we are down, joyous music can gradually shift our mood until we are happy again. Music plays a key role in our everyday lives – most of the time without us even realising. From subtle songs in advertising to studying playlists of Shakespeare, it is clear how significant its impacts can be.
Michael Allen
Science Scholars 2017 