Here’s what Google Gemini has to say about it, some things I think most would intuit:
There are several reasons why humans find music so captivating and why we enjoy listening to the same songs repeatedly:
Emotional Connection: Music has a powerful ability to evoke emotions. The combination of melody, rhythm, harmony, and lyrics can trigger a wide range of feelings, from joy and excitement to sadness and nostalgia. When we listen to a song that resonates with our current emotional state, it can be incredibly comforting and validating.
Reward System Activation: Listening to music activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and well-being. This creates a positive association with the music, making us want to hear it again to experience those same rewarding feelings.
Familiarity and Comfort: Repeatedly listening to a song creates a sense of familiarity and comfort. The brain enjoys predictable patterns, and the repetition of the same musical elements can be soothing and calming. This is especially true for songs associated with positive memories or experiences.
Nostalgia and Identity: Music can be a powerful trigger for memories. Hearing a song from our childhood, a past relationship, or a specific event can transport us back in time and evoke vivid memories and emotions. This nostalgic connection can be deeply meaningful and contribute to our sense of identity.
Musical Learning and Appreciation: Repeated listening can also enhance our appreciation for music. As we listen to a song multiple times, we can pick up on new details, appreciate the intricacies of the composition, and develop a deeper understanding of the music. This process of learning and discovery can contribute to a richer musical experience.
It's important to note that not everyone enjoys listening to the same songs repeatedly. Some individuals have a strong preference for novelty and may constantly seek out new music to explore. Ultimately, our individual preferences for music are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including our personality, cultural background, and life experiences.
