What Makes a Song ‘Happy’?

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What Makes a Song ‘Happy’?

05-17-2023

Michael Bonshor’s recent article in The Conversation examines the many reasons why certain music makes us feel good. Surprise: it’s all tied to individual preferences. His article dispels the common assumption that certain types of music have a blanket therapeutic effect. In fact, if we hear a piece of music that we don’t like, it can actually have a negative impact on our health. Musical preferences are culturally informed as well; the positive feeling you associate with a major chord may not be experienced by someone from another country. If you want to use music effectively to support the wellbeing of others, make sure you know your listeners!

May Basket 2023, Michael Bonshor, Musical Preferences, The Conversation

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