Want to feel better? Listen to pop music

(PhysOrg.com) -- An analysis of U2, one of the most commercially successful and influential bands of all time, suggests music can play an important role in bettering the health of individuals and society as a whole.

In an article published in the journal Health & Place, Gavin Andrews, a professor in the Department of Health, Aging & Society at McMaster University explores mechanisms ranging from the bands direct activism and celebrity diplomacy to its music that promotes health causes, or is otherwise used by listeners to enhance their wellbeing on an everyday basis.

Some celebrities such as Bono are becoming de facto new public intellectuals, among the few people who seem able to effectively deliver messages and challenge large audiences. Yet few popular celebrities have the training to engage with issues in the detailed manner typical of academics and policymakers, says Andrews.

On another level attempts to create healing places in and around music have always been part of musical composition and consumption whether it be music by Mozart or by a rock band such as U2. In this sense, the music does not have to openly mention health, but wellbeing can result from its consumption, he says.

Andrews work on U2 is only the start of a much larger project on music and health with colleagues in New Zealand and British Columbia.

They are currently working with other academics on a wide-range of topics including music therapy programs, technologies, music personalities, specific genres and identitiesincluding Indie, Punk and Reggaeand other bands such as The Smiths and Oasis.

Provided by McMaster University