Listening to unfamiliar music can expand your horizons, create new memory bonds, and offer fresh pleasures.

According to an estimate from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, an organization that represents the international music industry, people around the world spend on average 20.1 hours per week listening to music, up from 18.4 hours in 2021. We have more ways to access music than at any time in history, and a whole world of unfamiliar styles to explore. The thrill of discovering new songs and new sounds can enrich people of all ages. Except, most of the time, it doesn’t. Our willingness to explore new or unfamiliar music declines with age. Multiple studies confirm the sentiments of US songwriter and musician Bob Seger: “Today’s music ain’t got the same soul. I like that old time rock ‘n’ roll.” Read more >