The average adult will listen to almost 10 hours of music a week – often to pull themselves out of a bad mood.
A survey of 2,000 UK adults found almost a third have turned to music to help them through the pandemic and more than half said particular songs can dramatically improve their mood.
Meanwhile, 26 per cent claimed music has been more important to them than ever during the last few months.
While 37 per cent have created different playlists depending on how they feel, six in 10 also have certain songs which evoke memories.
One fifth have listened to particular songs to help them feel connected to people or places during the pandemic and 20 per cent have listened to the radio more than ever before.
The poll was commissioned by ibis Hotels, which is creating a playlist of songs that have helped people through the last 18 months.
It also emerged that on average, adults put music on twice a week, specifically to get themselves out of a grump.
Many turn to certain songs to cheer themselves up when feeling sad or fed-up, with a majority admitting to playing more often in recent times.
James Wheatcroft, for Ibis Hotels said: “The research proves what an impact music has on moods and how music has helped keep us connected to people during the pandemic.
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“Two thirds admitted to music bringing them to tears and 16 per cent listen to songs to remind them of people who have passed away showing how music is powerful, it unites people, it keeps people connected to places and memories and it has been more important than ever in the last 18 months.”
“While live music was off limits, it’s nice to see people experimented with different genres and even listened to more music than normal to be reminded of better times or feel connected with others.”
The survey also found the pandemic had made one tenth of those polled more experimental with what they’ve listened to and a few said have streamed music more than ever before.
And while 22 per cent have been bought to tears of sadness over a piece of music, 13 per cent have also cried with happiness.
A number of those polled via OnePoll are looking forward to seeing live music as restrictions continue to ease.
Mr Wheatcroft added: “So much of our mood can be affected by music – it can take us back to special memories, make us feel close to someone half the world away and pick us up when we feel sad of stressed.
“As we come out of the pandemic, out of lockdowns we wanted to create a playlist to celebrate the return to normal life, and another to honour the role music has played during Covid times.
“It’s a thank you to music.”
SWNS
