Music Isn’t For Listening
As I prepared to write this commentary, I caught myself and considered my actions. I had launched iTunes on my PowerBook, opened my MP3 library and clicked on a Joe Sample track. You see, I was in the process of creating an environment — a backdrop — to help me get in the mood to write. Capiche?
I’m sure many of you can relate to the notion that sometimes people play music just to have it in the background. I’ve heard it both ways — some like music playing as they read or carry out the day's activities — and others don’t. Some people need quiet to concentrate and be productive. Some use music to be creative, or just have it in the background at work. Others jam in the car as they drive. Either way, it personally doesn’t bother me, yet I'll be the first to admit, I’m always reluctant to permit my daughters to listen to their iPods while doing homework. I know, I know. It’s a double standard, but, I’m the dad and what the dad says pretty much goes.
At my office, a design studio that has an open-air environment, we play music all day long, so everyone enjoys it – or at least I hope they do. But, might background music be getting in the way of productivity or does it increase productivity? There are studies that say that working environments that include ambient music relax employees. As a result, people often work more efficiently and are less stressed. I can identify with that, if the music isn't distracting.
Think about it. What a psychological marvel! Music has the ability to affect how you carry out the daily activities in life. Personally, I believe that music has made me a better thinker by just being there for me. It never fails me. When I want to think big and aggressive, ZZ Top delivers Sharp Dressed Man to me on a silver platter. When I’m concentrating and need focus while working at the office, Earl Klugh comes through again with Heart String. When I’m on the road… just driving, Donald Fagan offers me H Gang at the same pace. If I’m feeling romantic… a little Teddy Pendergrass or Grover Washington often does the trick.
You know, music isn’t just for “listening”. It’s also for “doing”. So, I guess I'll just keep on doing what I do. And when I’m done “doing”, I’ll probably sit and listen to some more…well...music.
Eddy Cabello
Inside MusiCast
Hi Eddie,
very true. I think what is alsoi spectacular to see is how people or especially kids react to the moods, which music creates. My son is nine years old and I was payling BOYS OF SUMMER by Don Henley in the car the other day. He doesn`t get the lyrics, but sensed exactly what the song is about by listening to the harmonies, chords, guitar effects etc. and it got him into a real sentimental mood, My daughter on the other hand is 3 years old and her favorite song is "Vultures" by John Mayer (great artist by the way), when she hears that beat and guitar lick, she is so full of energy. As a teenager and not being a native speaking person, I never had a clue what my favorite artists were talking about in their songs, Ijust felt the song - i.e the atmosphere, the groove, voice etc. - when I listen to those songs today, those feelings come right back, as if they never were gone - only music does that to me. It amazies me to this day. Henning
You are so right. Even little toddlers respond to music. I remember when my daughters were little, they'd start dancing when we'd put on the salsa music....the music would literally move them. I believe that music is a God-given gift...and we as human beings inherently respond to it...no matter the genre. Classical, Reggae, Jazz, Funk, R&B, Country
or whatever...it moves us.
Thanks for your comments.
Comments (3)
Dear E i love music its a good pick me upper when im blue it makes me feel better or when i need to get house work done i turn the music up load and get things done its great to have music>>> music is a big part of my life seeya trish phillips tell chris rodriguez i said hi thanks
Posted on 08.07.07