Music

             Over the years, music has become a value that many people, including myself, could not live without. Music is more then just sounds that serve as a backdrop to other activities; it affects people on an emotional level. In fact, music can determine what mood a person is in, or can even determine someone’s personality.
             There are many different genres of music, and every genre affects people differently. For instance, upbeat pop songs, or songs that are played in dance clubs, make people happy and give them the urge to dance. Other genres such as rap, heavy metal and hard rock can make people angry or pumped up. Also, some R&B is known to make people sad and depressed. There have even been some scientific studies that prove certain genres can make a person smarter. Even though all of those have been scientifically proven, it does not mean that they effect every person the same way. Listening to heave metal might make some people happy, so it just depends on the person listening to the music. Bottom line, just listen to the type of music that makes you happy. 

            While the sound of the song plays a part in affecting someone’s mood, the lyrics are also a very important part. When listening to songs with sad lyrics or lyrics that tell a depressing story, it does not matter what the beat sounds like. If the person actually listens to the words of a sad song, the lyrics will make them sad. “Last Kiss” by Peal Jam is the perfect example because it does not have a depressing beat, but the lyrics are extremely sad. If one was simply using that song as a backdrop to a different activity, their emotions would not be affected in a negative way. 

            Not only can music affect a person’s mood, it can also affect how the person dresses, or what their style is. For instance, many goth and scene people listen to heavy metal. Other people may look up to a singer they admire for fashion ideas. Music really does play a big role in the world today.
             Music affects people more than we realize. It gives people a sense of identity, security, and comfort. We listen to music to make us feel certain ways, whether we do it intentionally or not. I know for a fact that I would not be able to function without music. I listen to it constantly and I rely on it to keep me calm. Music has become something that people rely on, and it has had so many positive effects on the world.