Music is an euphoric experience, right? It can uplift minds and soothe nerves. The world is spinning off into the world of music through various means. From tapping on the table to playing a soothing note on the piano, a rhythm is created that captivates listeners. Humanity has always found new ways to compose music through instruments, whether from nature or electronics, and nowadays, listening to music has become a ‘hobby’ for youth and adults alike.
Spotify Wrapped, a feature launched by Spotify, the popular online audio streaming platform, every year in December since 2016, tracks listening time from January to November (December is excluded to process data) and sets the trend at the end of the year. Favourite songs and artists of the year pop up along with the listening time. Also, audio habits are data used to determine users’ listening age based on the era of the songs, which surprises many
Gen Z and teens – youngsters who are thought to seek immediate gratification- are the majority of the listeners/subscribers. Using earpods rather than wired earphones enables wireless connectivity and greater mobility. Other factors, including the massive production and use of smartphones and the need to keep the mind engaged and relieved, have contributed to the platform’s use. For some, it is therapy, but to others it’s merely an addiction. Without music, many feel alone or as if the world is silent. Anything that disrupts the normal emotional state needs to be addressed. With many youngsters resorting to listening to music during times of despair or trying to be engaged while not doing anything meaningful, it proves to be a distraction rather than a way to deal with the problem. It is only an escapism from reality.
There is no problem in being alone, being sad or doing nothing. It’s just the way humankind was made – to ‘rest’ peacefully, without distractions. Many distractions affect the psyche and lead to dysregulated moods. This affects the whole cultural society. It is advisable to keep our minds regulated through meditation, exercise, meaningful relationships, conversations, and, of course, therapeutic music.
