Why do i listen to the music?

Without music, life would be a mistake.

― Friedrich Nietzsche

During my last trip to Himachal, I got involved in a massive argument about playing loud music in public. One of my friends shared their perspective on the kind of music I was listening to, questioning why it had no lyrics, no classical instruments, and was mostly beats and electronic sounds.

They argued that it wasn’t real music and expressed disappointment in how Gen Z isn’t listening to what they consider actual music but instead to these types of sounds.

This event made me think more about my relationship with the type of music I’m listening to and helped me understand it more deeply.

From a philosophical perspective, music is a reflection of the human condition. Nietzsche’s assertion, “Without music, life would be a mistake” resonates deeply with me.

Music, in its various forms, becomes a mirror reflecting our innermost thoughts, emotions, and existential quests.

Sounds confusing?

Let me explain it more deeply and also to dive into my personal relationship history with music.

Memories and Emotions

Have you ever felt that a certain type of music can trigger memories from the past, evoking nostalgic moments? I’m sure everyone has experienced this at some point.

Have you ever been deep in problem-solving mode, totally focused, and then suddenly you notice the crazy intense music playing in the background? You’re like, “Wow, this is awesome, I need to add this to my playlist”

We all know that national anthems and patriotic songs can make us feel a deep sense of pride and loyalty to our country. At the same time, devotional songs can lift you up spiritually.

But have you ever wondered why these songs evoke such strong emotions?
What makes them so special that they can trigger these feelings?

These moments, deeply embedded in our memories, reveal the timeless and universal power of music to touch our hearts and souls.

The Awakening

At first, my taste in music was pretty basic. I loved classical Bollywood hits, Top chart songs, and Chill lo-fi tunes, all in my own little bubble.

I avoided anything too intense because it usually gave me headaches or just didn’t resonate with me and that was totally fine by me.

However, over time, diving deep into philosophical questions, experiencing different perspectives, traveling a lot, hanging out with friends who listen to diverse genres of music, and trying new experiences opened my senses to a new dimension of sound. Over the period, I could feel the energy and emotion behind every note and rhythm, that’s when I truly connected with music.

Music, at that moment, became more than just sound. It was an experience, a way to connect with myself and express our unspoken emotions. It didn’t need words or traditional instruments, it was powerful in its simplicity.

This shift led me to understand the diverse meanings and creations of music, allowing me to use it as a personal tool for various aspects of my life : be it self discovery, workouts, focus, or mood management.

Philosophers have long contemplated the role of music in human life. Nietzsche, who famously declared that “Without music, life would be a mistake” ¹ saw music as an essential force that connected us to our deepest emotions and highest aspirations.

• Nietzsche believed that music had the power to transcend the mundane, allowing us to tap into a more profound sense of purpose and potential.

Over time, I started using music for my personal growth. It helps me stay consistent with workouts, push my limits, face fears and challenges, and connect deeply with myself. I’ll dive into this more in the next section.

The philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer ² also spoke of music as a universal language that could convey the essence of life’s struggles and triumphs.

• For Schopenhauer², music was a direct expression of the world’s will , a force that drives all existence.
• Through music, we encounter this will and, in turn, are inspired to push beyond our limitations.

A friend once put it perfectly that techno music is like this abstract form of art. There are no lyrics to tell you what it’s about or how to feel, so you’re left to interpret it in your own way. It’s like staring at a painting with no clear subject, you can’t always explain it, but you feel something, and that’s the beauty of it.

Personal Experience

• I have been listening to music extensively for the last 2 years. Some of the major things I’ve noticed are:

  • Purpose Fuel: Music reignites the passion, it’s an tool to keep my desires burning bright and acts as a constant reminder of my goals, pushing me forward when the path gets tough.

  • Existential Awareness: There’s a unique sensation of being truly alive when you’re lost in music. It heightens your awareness of the present moment, making you feel connected to your existence in a profound way.

  • Soul Healer: Music has an almost magical ability to mend my soul. It reaches depths that words often can’t, providing solace and comfort during the hardest times.

  • Energy Booster: Whenever feeling drained, using music as your recharge button. A powerful beat or a soothing melody to rejuvenate the spirit, giving me the strength to carry on.

  • Mood Magic: music works is like a switch that can instantly change your emotional state. Whether you need a boost of energy, a moment of calm, or a surge of inspiration, the right tune can transport you there.

Over time, I’ve noticed that when you start linking music to your experiences, the magic really starts to happen.

We all have those nostalgic moments with songs that remind us of the past. But things get even more interesting when music becomes tied to a long-term goal or process you’re working on. That music then becomes part of your journey towards achieving that goal.

For Instance, I began playing the same kind of music I loved, over and over, for specific situations, like my workouts at the gym.

• There was this one DJ’s concert on YouTube that I always played. Usually, I’d get bored of a song if I overplayed it, but this time was different.
• The more I listened, the deeper my connection with that music grew.
• I ended up playing the same 1-hour-and-30-minute concert for my entire gym sessions throughout the year.
• Now, listening to the same music again during your low points triggers that state of mind to push forward.

I realized that the music became linked to my workout routines, helping me hit my targets and making the overall experience more intense, meaningful and joyful.

1. For instance, when doing self-discovery, journaling , brainstorming or developing new ideas, I turn to Hozho’s “DJ Mix 03 (Live @ Jardins Efémeros, Viseu)“. This melodic dark music inspires me and helps me channel my desires into actionable plans.
   • Music speaks to our inner selves, tapping into what makes life meaningful. It pushes us to make every moment count, urging to strive harder, push past boundaries, and achieve what once thought was impossible.
   • The beats, lyrics, and rhythms resonated with something deep within me, pushing me to keep going, to push harder, to test and eventually break my limits.
   • In his philosophy, Nietzsche¹ often emphasized the importance of embracing life in all its complexity, including its joys and sufferings.
     • Music, with its ability to evoke and transform emotions, serves as a powerful tool for this embrace. It allows us to feel deeply, to connect with others, and to find meaning even in the face of life’s most challenging moments.
       
       
2. “Boris Brejcha at Arènes de Nîmes, in France for Cercle“ is a minimal techno concert that fuels my workouts. This music pumps me up, turning what could be a monotonous routine into an exhilarating experience. The repetitive beats and intense energy make me feel like I’m dancing in a club rather than exercising in a gym.
   • Every day in the gym, I play this kind of music for the whole past year and visualize myself hiking, running over stones, reaching the top, dancing, and vibing to the music.
   • When I feel the music during a hike, it’s like a rush of inspiration and euphoria. It makes me feel truly alive and aware of my own existence, and it fills me with pride for all the effort I’ve put in to get there.
   • This music always reminds me to get out of the comfort zone, that’s exactly where I rediscovered myself, that’s after all, I am capable of things I thought I didn’t have in me.
     
     
3. Ben Böhmer live above Cappadocia in Turkey for Cercle is a melodic house music set is like a painkiller for me. It relaxes me, keeps me present in the moment, and helps me manifest my desires.
   • I listen to this music during flow activities that don’t need much effort, like when I’m doing something calm and relaxing.
   • It’s like finally reaching the top of the mountain you’ve always dreamed of, feeling that pure happiness and peace of mind.
     
     
4. Healing through music is another profound aspect I’ve experienced. Carbon Based Lifeforms’ “Live at Ozora Festival 2017“ is a psy-ambient set that I use to relax and find stillness. The soothing melodies and ambient sounds help calm my mind, reduce stress, and promote a sense of peace.
   • The concept of music as a healing tool is not new. Throughout history, various cultures have used music to soothe the mind and body.
   • Ancient Greeks, for example, believed in the therapeutic power of music and used it to treat mental and physical ailments.
   • Similarly, indigenous cultures around the world have incorporated music into their healing rituals, recognizing its ability to restore harmony and well-being.
     
     
5. I’ve been using Brain.fm music for about a year now, mostly for recharging during work:
   • Waking up early, doing workouts, handling home stuff, then tackling work and meetings all of this can leave me feeling tired by the afternoon and craving a nap.
   • I don’t take naps for the recharge, instead, I just lay down on the bed and listen to Brain.fm for 15-20 mins. It helps recharge my energy to start working again.
   • It’s been a good alternative to coffee for now :D.

Music, for me, is no longer just about the instruments or the lyrics, it’s about the feelings it evokes. It’s about the memories it brings back and the emotions it stirs. Whether it’s the classical symphonies my parents used to play on Sunday mornings or the electronic tracks I now prefer, music has always been a constant companion, reflecting my journey and my growth.

Since then, I’ve been on a musical adventure on Spotify, always on the hunt for new genres, artists, and unique sounds. It’s amazing how discovering fresh tunes can take you on unexpected journeys and open up new horizons. Music really has this incredible ability to change your mood and mindset, don’t you think?

Also, When visiting a new place, it can be worthwhile to take in some fresh music and create a lasting memory and emotional association with the location.

Someone also described this to me well:

You are embedded in the music, as if music and you were one.

Role of Music in Manifestation and Visualization

Manifestation and visualization are powerful techniques that involve using the mind to create and attract desired outcomes. Music can play a significant role in enhancing these practices by creating an emotional and mental state conducive to manifestation. By selecting music that resonates with our goals and desires, we can amplify our intentions and bring them to fruition.

For instance, when I visualize achieving a personal goal, I choose music that evokes the emotions associated with that goal.

• If I’m visualizing success and achievement, I listen to uplifting and triumphant music that fills me with a sense of confidence and empowerment.
• If I’m visualizing relaxation and inner peace, I choose calming and soothing music that fosters a sense of serenity.

The key to using music for manifestation is to select tracks that align with the emotions and mental states you wish to cultivate. By immersing yourself in music that resonates with your intentions, you can create a powerful connection between your mind and your goals, making it easier to manifest your desires.

I’ve always felt a deep connection with music, and I’ve started using it intentionally to alter my brain’s beta waves.

• My plan involves listening to binaural beats and other specialized tracks repeatedly until my brain becomes accustomed to them. Then, I switch to new tracks to further enhance my cognitive abilities.

• Tools like Brain.fm and Spotify’s beta waves playlists are excellent resources for this practice.

The Science Behind Music and the Brain

Research has shown that listening to music releases dopamine³, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical reaction can enhance our mood, increase our motivation, and even reduce the perception of pain. This explains why athletes often rely on high-energy music to boost their performance during training and competition.

Moreover, it’s fascinating to note that different types of music can activate different regions of the brain. For example, rhythmic music engages the motor cortex, which is responsible for movement and coordination. On the other hand, melodic and harmonic music stimulates the auditory cortex, which processes sound. This explains why certain types of music can enhance physical performance, while others can promote relaxation and mental clarity.

Binaural beats, in particular, have gained popularity for their ability to influence brainwave patterns⁴. These beats consist of two slightly different frequencies played in each ear, creating a perceived third frequency that corresponds to specific brainwave states.

For example, binaural beats in the delta frequency range (1-4 Hz) can induce deep relaxation and sleep, while those in the beta frequency range (13-30 Hz) can enhance focus and concentration.

I’ve started using it intentionally to alter my brain’s beta waves.

• My plan involves listening to binaural beats and other specialized tracks repeatedly until my brain becomes accustomed to them. Then, I switch to new tracks to further enhance my cognitive abilities.
• Tools like Brain.fm and Spotify’s beta waves playlists are excellent resources for this practice.

Closing Words

Avoid Overstimulation : “Anything you consume beyond its threshold will eventually consume you.”

So, when my friend criticized my choice in music, it made me realize that everyone’s musical journey is unique. What might seem like noise to one person can be a lifeline to another. And for me, those electronic beats are more than just sounds, they’re a testament to my past, present, and future.

• Again, music is a personal choice and depends on the individual.
• Someone may use it one way or another.
• The whole purpose of this article is to share my own experience and relationship with music.

Music, for me, has evolved from being just a source of entertainment to a profound tool for self-exploration and growth. It’s not just about what you hear; it’s about what you feel and how it shapes your journey. So next time you plug in your earphones, think about what you’re really listening to and how it might be shaping your life.

“Music can change the world because it can change people.⁵” - Bono

References

• Hozho. (2021). DJ Mix 03 (Live @ Jardins Efémeros, Viseu). Available at: YouTube
• Brejcha, B. (2020). Boris Brejcha at Arènes de Nîmes, in France for Cercle. Available at: YouTube
• Böhmer, B. (2021). Ben Böhmer live above Cappadocia in Turkey for Cercle. Available at: YouTube
• Carbon Based Lifeforms. (2017). Live at Ozora Festival 2017. Available at: YouTube