Mood music is not a new concept. It has been around for generations, and used both by individuals, stores and even by nations. It can cause many different emotions, and these emotions can lead to actions. What does your music make you feel and do?
Romance: The soft strains of a violin can help set the mood just as much as the roses and candlelight. Romantic music is a wonderful way to get “into the mood.” Some singers are also good at this, though tastes are often very individual.
Dance Music: A good song for dancing makes your feet want to get moving. It has a good beat, and a positive feel to it. I’ve watched all sorts of dances done to various types of music, and there have been times when I’ve wanted to dance right along with them.
Sacred Music: The strains of the Hallelujah Chorus can give me a chill. Sacred music brings us closer to God, opens our eyes to what our faith has to say and is also usually uplifting. Even songs about the difficult times in our various religions usually end with something positive.
Patriotic Music: This type of music is written to encourage our love of country. I can’t hear the national anthem without singing it. Songs about the U.S. can bring tears to my eyes. When I listen to them, I feel pride for my country, and that’s what it was written for.
Heavy Metal: There is a link between this music and both depression and suicide. Music with a negative message is going to cause negative emotions. It’s not a type of music I care to listen to, so my information here is based on the study linked. It would be interesting to hear the point of view of those who do listen to it. Does it ever make you feel sad or depressed?
There is something we should all keep in mind, and it’s not just about “modern music.” Older music can do the same things. Music with an angry message is going to cause people who listen to it to become angry. Music with violence or a discriminatory message is going to lead to violence and discrimination. Music with obscenities will make it more likely the listener will use those words.
Music is a universal mood setter. What we listen to doesn’t just say a lot about who we are, it forms us into that person. Choose with care.