Ongoing History Daily: Is rock music good for you?

Back in 1996, a study was released on the effects of rock music on children—and the conclusions were a little surprising. These researchers determined that rock music can, in fact, make you smarter.

British scientists divided 11,000 children into three groups. Group one got to listen to classical music. Group two spent their time listening to talk radio. Group three got to listen to alternative rock on the radio. Then all three groups were given IQ tests. The kids who were given a steady dose of Blur and Oasis (remember, this is the UK in 1996) scored 4% higher than the other groups.

Dr. Sue Halem of London’s Institute of Education says “I think this is an emotional effect. The children enjoyed Blur and were motivated.”