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The science is in: You CAN judge a person by their musical taste

It used to be that judging a person by what music they listen to was considered to be a form of cultural snobbery. “You can’t make an informed opinion of someone just by what bands they like! That’s so shallow and unfair!”

Well, maybe not.

According to this story in The Hill (and I’m quoting directly here):

  • Studies have shown a link between music preferences and a person’s propensity to empathize with others.
  • Researchers have also found a connection between music taste and personality traits.
  • While researchers are still investigating a link between listening to music and its ability to influence a person’s mood long-term, strong evidence has shown how music can improve or dampen your mood more immediately.
https://thehill.com/changing-america/enrichment/arts-culture/546777-science-now-says-you-can-judge-people-by-their-taste?jwsource=cl

There’s even a test you can take.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 38031 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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