Why Gen Z Loves Sad Songs Insights from a Music Psychologist

Why Gen Z Loves Sad Songs Insights from a Music Psychologist

The Fascinating World of Sad Music

Sad songs. We all have that one playlist hidden away, buried deep within our Spotify accounts. You know the one – “Sad Crying Mix,” “Lonely Sad Mix,” or my personal favorite, “Crying Myself To Sleep.” It’s like Spotify knows us better than we know ourselves. But what’s the deal with Gen Z and their infatuation with sad music? Turns out, there’s a scientific explanation behind it all.

According to Spotify’s data, Gen Z’s top search in 2023 is simply… “sad.” But don’t worry, it doesn’t mean they’re a generation of Debbie Downers. In fact, they’re tech-savvy, ambitious, politically involved, and surprisingly funny. So why the melancholic tunes? To find out, I chatted with Dr. Michael Bonshor, a music psychology expert who partnered with Spotify to unravel the mysteries of sad music.

Dr. Bonshor revealed that the key to a sad song lies in its tempo. Slow and steady, like a relaxed heartbeat, these songs create a sense of calm. The instruments and voices in sad songs also tend to be more mellow, further adding to the relaxing effect. And while sad songs are often associated with minor keys, even major key songs can capture that bittersweet feeling. But what truly defines a sad song is the relationship between the lyrics and the music. It’s this combination that hits us right in the feels.

But why are Gen Zers so drawn to these somber melodies? One reason is their deep connection with technology. Growing up surrounded by screens, they’ve become masters of customizing their listening experiences. Music becomes a tool for self-expression and emotional release. And who can blame them? In a world that seems constantly tumultuous, sometimes all we need is Lana Del Rey crooning in our ears to make it all better.

Sure, it might seem strange that Gen Z is seeking out sad songs even in the summertime. But research explains that they’re a reflective bunch year-round. They crave a sense of belonging, and listen to music that resonates with their inner thoughts and emotions. It’s about finding solace in shared experiences.

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But here’s the fascinating part. Sad music isn’t just about wallowing in sorrow. It serves a purpose beyond mere melancholy. Listening to sad songs can actually be therapeutic. The slow tempo of these songs affects our bodies, slowing down our breathing and heart rate. We start to relax and feel better. There’s even evidence that singing and listening to music together releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones. It’s like being part of a musical community, releasing oxytocin, the bonding hormone. Sad songs can also trigger the release of prolactin, a hormone that helps soothe and heal our bodies on a physical and psychological level.

So, should we be concerned that Gen Z is embracing sad music? Absolutely not. It’s a testament to their emotional intelligence and self-care practices. Sad songs provide an outlet for expression, a way to process emotions, and a means for personal growth. As Dr. Bonshor explains, sad music can even help us have a good cry, allowing us to release pent-up emotions and move forward.

But is it possible to overdo it with sad songs? Well, listening to sad music is a bit like escaping into a flow state. It distracts us from our own feelings, creating a distorted sense of time. It’s a form of self-soothing that can be both cathartic and comforting. However, balance is key. Spending too much time focusing on sad emotions can be detrimental. So, it’s important to find a harmonious mix of uplifting and melancholic tunes.

On Wednesdays, Spotify’s data reveals a spike in searches for sad songs. Perhaps it’s because, by mid-week, we all need that extra boost to get through the grind. Immersing ourselves in music can make time fly by while bringing solace to the soul.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to put on some Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 to soothe my tired mind. And maybe, just maybe, give Adele a shoutout for providing the perfect soundtrack to our emotional journeys.

Because let’s face it, there’s something strangely satisfying about belting out lyrics to sad songs at the top of our lungs. And with options like Adele and Frank Ocean in our arsenal, who can resist the allure of a solid scream-sing session? So go ahead, indulge in a little sadness, and let the music take you on a journey of reflection, healing, and above all, self-discovery.