Music seems like a general idea, but there's more to it than that.
What Music Is For
"The function of music is to release us from the tyranny of conscious thought"
- Thomas Beecham
Everyone says that music is made for entertainment. While this may be true, music is also a way to express thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Music also has lots of different affects on our bodies. It has been shown that music can boost your mood, help with illnesses, ease pain, and many more.
Music In Media
You will hear music everywhere you go, but a main source that it comes from is the media. Music plays in commercials, video games, social media posts, in the background of movies and shows, and many more. Music used in these scenarios are used to set the mood or add a level of intensity. For example, when you hear "I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan in the commercials about adopting a dog, it makes you sad for the dogs because it is a sad song.
Other Uses Of Music
“Imagine all the people, living life in peace"
- John Lennon
Most of the time, music is used to project an idea, convey a message, or think out loud in the form of a song. For example, look at Imagine by John Lennon. Lennon's goal for this song was to have the listener imagine a world at peace. He was a avid and well-known protester of the Vietnam War, and this song was loosely tied to it. He wanted peace on earth for everyone and for everyone to be equal. Although some people got his message and did something about it, some people did not like his message, and ultimately, it's one of the reasons he was shot and killed in 1980.
Wrap Up
Music is used a number of different ways, ranging from inspiration to healing. Some songs are meant to have a specific reaction or message, while others are about a general topic. I gave a couple examples of this and I hope you understand where music comes from and the inspiration behind it.