Impact of Song Type on Memory Recall
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal "PLOS One", researchers Safiyyah Nawaz and Diana Omigie from Goldsmiths University in London delved into the profound connection between music and memories. The study involved an online survey with 233 participants aged 18 to 76.
Participants were asked to share and categorize the memories triggered by the songs they listened to. The findings revealed some interesting insights about the emotional impact of music on our memories.
Calm, acoustic songs such as "re: stacks" by Bon Iver and "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy were more associated with feelings of calm, romance, sadness, and admiration. On the other hand, upbeat songs like "Trap Queen" by Fetty Wap and "When Doves Cry" by Prince were more likely to evoke memories filled with excitement and pleasure.
Interestingly, less powerful, more acoustic songs tended to evoke calm, romantic, and sad memories, while energetic songs were more likely to trigger memories more quickly. Memories evoked by calm songs were rated as more vivid, unique, and important by the participants.
The properties of music, such as acoustics, volume, and energy, are linked to the emotional and phenomenological qualities of musical memories, according to Nawaz. These findings could potentially contribute to therapies for people with memory disorders like Alzheimer's, providing a new avenue for research and treatment.
It's worth noting that this study does not suggest that listening to music keeps the brain fit into old age. However, previous research has already shown that playing and singing music can have a positive impact on brain health.
Participants were also asked to submit their own songs that evoked memories. While the study did not specifically name musicians or music groups not surveyed, their songs could potentially serve as memory aids in Alzheimer’s therapies.
Previous research has already shown that music can evoke vivid memories. This study builds on that knowledge, providing a deeper understanding of the emotional impact of music on our memories and its potential therapeutic applications.
