Music has been around forever. It changes how we feel, affects what we do, and brings people together with sounds. Pop, jazz, rock, rap – music seems to hit everyone in some way. So, does music really play a big part in our lives?

Lots of students use music to study, chill out, or get stuff done. Raymond Coronado, a senior, states that, “I try to listen to more chill and indie music but I switch it up and listen to a lot of different genres.” Music seems to be part of almost every student’s day, but how it hits them depends on who they are and what they’re listening to.

Sean DeBrito, a junior, goes on to say that, “I would say that music has a positive impact on studying or doing homework”. But not everyone thinks this way. Isabella Franscella, also a junior, states that, “I usually do not listen to music when studying because I get too into the music and don’t do my work. but on occasion i can lock in with something crazy upbeat and get everything done. usually hard bop jazz or funk.”

According to Dhruva Koranne’s article “The Positive and Negative Effects of Music on Human Behavior”, music can really change how people feel. Studies show music can lower stress, make memory better, and even help with depression. Listening to classical or jazz can make someone feel more relaxed and happier by releasing brain stuff like dopamine and serotonin. But, the article also says music can also have bad sides. Certain kinds with angry words or dark meanings can give someone bad ideas, make people angry, or even push young listeners to do drugs. 

Music hits everyone in their own way. For some, it’s like a friend and pushes them forward. For others, it can take attention away or make them feel tired. From what people say and what the info shows, music has a huge impact on our lives every day, both good and bad. Whether it’s helping someone get stuff done, making them feel better, or just setting the mood, music is still one of the most amazing ways to show how someone feels.