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126 Rock Music Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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Rock music has been a powerful force in the music industry for decades, influencing countless artists and capturing the hearts of millions of fans around the world. With its high-energy beats, electrifying guitar solos, and raw, emotive lyrics, rock music has the ability to evoke strong emotions and create lasting memories.

If you're a student or writer looking for inspiration for your next essay on rock music, look no further. In this article, we have compiled a list of 126 rock music essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started on your next writing project. Whether you're interested in exploring the history of rock music, analyzing the impact of a specific band or artist, or discussing the cultural significance of rock music, there's a topic on this list to suit your interests.

• The origins of rock music
• The evolution of rock music genres
• The influence of blues music on rock music
• The impact of the Beatles on rock music
• The rise of punk rock in the 1970s
• The role of women in rock music
• The cultural significance of rock music in the 1960s
• The influence of technology on rock music production
• The role of social media in promoting rock music
• The impact of rock music on youth culture
• The legacy of Jimi Hendrix in rock music history
• The influence of psychedelic rock on modern music
• The rise of grunge music in the 1990s
• The impact of MTV on the popularity of rock music
• The role of rock music in political activism
• The influence of folk music on rock music
• The impact of drugs and alcohol on rock music culture
• The role of fashion in rock music
• The evolution of rock music festivals
• The influence of hip-hop on rock music
• The rise of garage rock bands in the 2000s
• The impact of streaming services on the rock music industry
• The role of nostalgia in the popularity of classic rock music
• The influence of electronic music on rock music production
• The legacy of Kurt Cobain in rock music history
• The rise of indie rock bands in the 2010s
• The impact of social movements on rock music lyrics
• The role of gender and sexuality in rock music
• The influence of world music on rock music
• The evolution of rock music album covers
• The impact of music videos on the success of rock bands
• The role of radio in promoting rock music
• The influence of literature on rock music lyrics
• The rise of alternative rock in the 1980s
• The impact of commercialism on rock music
• The role of record labels in shaping the sound of rock music
• The influence of technology on live rock music performances
• The legacy of David Bowie in rock music history
• The rise of emo rock bands in the 2000s
• The impact of music streaming platforms on the rock music industry
• The role of fan communities in supporting rock bands
• The influence of fashion on rock music culture
• The evolution of rock music merchandise
• The impact of social media influencers on the success of rock bands
• The role of nostalgia in the popularity of classic rock bands
• The legacy of Freddie Mercury in rock music history
• The rise of pop rock bands in the 2010s
• The legacy of Jim Morrison in rock music history
• The rise of punk rock bands in the 2000s
• The legacy of Janis Joplin in rock music history
• The rise of folk rock bands in the 2010s
• The rise of indie rock in the 1980s
• The legacy of Amy Winehouse in rock music history
• The rise of metalcore bands in the 2000s
• The legacy of Prince in rock music history
• The rise of synth-pop bands in the 2010s
• The rise of post-punk bands in the 1980s
• The rise of pop punk bands in the 2000s
• The legacy of Elvis Presley in rock music history
• The rise of Americana bands in the 2010s
• The rise of new wave bands in the 1980s
• The legacy of Michael Jackson in rock music history

Whether you're writing an essay for a music history class, a blog post for a music website, or simply exploring your own passion for rock music, these 126 topic ideas and examples are sure to inspire you to delve deeper into the world of rock music. So pick a topic that interests you, grab your favorite rock album, and get ready to rock out with your writing!

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Music Research Topics

Music is a vast and ever-growing field. Because of this, it can be challenging to find excellent music research topics for your essay or thesis. Although there are many examples of music research topics online, not all are appropriate.

This article covers all you need to know about choosing suitable music research paper topics. It also provides a clear distinction between music research questions and topics to help you get started.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong music research topic.

A strong music research topic must be short, straightforward, and easy to grasp. The primary aim of music research is to apply various research methods to provide valuable insights into a particular subject area. Therefore, your topic must also address issues that are relevant to present-day readers.

Also, for your research topic to be compelling, it should not be overly generic. Try to avoid topics that seem to be too broad. A strong research topic is always narrow enough to draw out a comprehensive and relevant research question.

Tips for Choosing a Music Research Topic

• Check with your supervisor. In some cases, your school or supervisor may have specific requirements for your research. For example, some music programs may favor a comparative instead of a descriptive or correlational study. Knowing what your institution demands is essential in choosing an appropriate research topic.
• Explore scientific papers. Journal articles are a great way to find the critical areas of interest in your field of study. You can choose from a wide range of journals such as The Journal of Musicology and The Journal of the Royal Musical Association . These resources can help determine the direction of your research.
• Determine your areas of interest. Choosing a topic you have a personal interest in will help you stay motivated. Researching music-related subjects is a painstakingly thorough process. A lack of motivation would make it difficult to follow through with your research and achieve optimal results.
• Confirm availability of data sources. Not all music topics are researchable. Before selecting a topic, you must be sure that there are enough primary and secondary data sources for your research. You also need to be sure that you can carry out your research with tested and proven research methods.
• Ask your colleagues: Asking questions is one of the many research skills you need to cultivate. A short discussion or brainstorming session with your colleagues or other music professionals could help you identify a suitable topic for your research paper.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is a particular subject area in a much wider field that a researcher chooses to place his emphasis on. Most subjects are extensive. So, before conducting research, a researcher must first determine a suitable area of interest that will act as the foundation for their investigation.

Research questions are drawn from research topics. However, research questions are usually more streamlined. While research topics can take a more generic viewpoint, research questions further narrow the focus down to specific case studies or seek to draw a correlation between two or more datasets.

How to Create Strong Music Research Questions

Strong music research questions must be relevant and specific. Music is a broad field with many genres and possible research areas. However, your research question must focus on a single subject matter and provide valuable insights. Also, your research question should be based on parameters that can be quantified and studied using available research methods.

Top 10 Music Research Paper Topics

1. understanding changes in music consumption patterns.

Although several known factors affect how people consume music, there is still a significant knowledge gap regarding how these factors influence listening choices. Your music research paper could outline some of these factors that affect music consumer behavior and highlight their mechanism of action.

2. Hip-hop Culture and Its Effect on Teenage Behavior

In 2020, hip-hop and RnB had the highest streaming numbers , according to Statista. Without a doubt, hip-hop music has had a significant influence on the behavior of young adults. There is still the need to conduct extensive research on this subject to determine if there is a correlation between hip-hop music and specific behavioral patterns, especially among teenagers.

3. The Application of Music as a Therapeutic Tool

For a long time, music has been used to manage stress and mental health disorders like anxiety, PTSD, and others. However, the role of music in clinical treatment still remains a controversial topic. Further research is required to separate fact from fiction and provide insight into the potential of music therapy.

4. Contemporary Rock Music and Its Association With Harmful Social Practices

Rock music has had a great influence on American culture since the 1950s. Since its rise to prominence, it has famously been associated with vices such as illicit sex and abuse of recreational drugs. An excellent research idea could be to evaluate if there is a robust causal relationship between contemporary rock music and adverse social behaviors.

5. The Impact of Streaming Apps on Global Music Consumption

Technology has dramatically affected the music industry by modifying individual music consumption habits. Presently, over 487 million people subscribe to a digital streaming service, according to Statista. Your research paper could examine how much of an influence popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music have had on how we listen to music.

6. Effective American Music Education Practices

Teaching practices have always had a considerable impact on students’ academic success. However, not all strategies have an equal effect in enhancing learning experiences for students. You can conduct comparative research on two or more American music education practices and evaluate their impact on learning outcomes.

7. The Evolution of Music Production in the Technology-driven Era

One of the aspects of music that is experiencing a massive change is sound production. More than ever before, skilled, tech-savvy music producers are in high demand. At the moment, music producers earn about $70,326 annually, according to ZipRecruiter. So, your research could focus on the changes in music production techniques since the turn of the 21st century.

8. Jazz Music and Its Influence on Western Music Genres

The rich history of jazz music has established it as one of the most influential genres of music since the 19th century. Over the years, several famous composers and leading voices across many other western music genres have been shaped by jazz music’s sound and culture. You could carry out research on the influence of this genre of music on modern types of music.

9. The Effect of Wars on Music

Wars have always brought about radical changes in several aspects of culture, including music styles. Throughout history, we have witnessed wars result in the death of famous musicians. If you are interested in learning about music history in relation to global events, a study on the impact of wars on music will make an excellent music research paper.

10. African Tribal Percussion

African music is well recognized for its unique application of percussion. Historically, several tribes and cultures had their own percussion instruments and original methods of expression. Unfortunately, this musical style has mainly gone undocumented. An in-depth study into ancient African tribal percussion would make a strong music research paper.

Other Examples of Music Research Topics & Questions

Music research topics.

• Popular musical styles of the 20th century
• The role of musical pieces in political movements
• Biographies of influential musicians during the baroque period
• The influence of classical music on modern-day culture
• The relationship between music and fashion

Music Research Questions

• What is the relationship between country music and conservationist ideologies among middle-aged American voters?
• What is the effect of listening to Chinese folk music on the critical thinking skills of high school students?
• How have electronic music production technologies influenced the sound quality of contemporary music?
• What is the correlation between punk music and substance abuse among Black-American males?
• How does background music affect learning and information retention in children?

Choosing the Right Music Research Topic

Your research topic is the foundation on which every other aspect of your study is built. So, you must select a music research topic that gives you room to adequately explore intriguing hypotheses and, if possible, proffer practically applicable solutions.

Also, if you seek to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Music , you must be prepared to conduct research during your study. Choosing the right music research topic is the first step in guaranteeing good grades and delivering relevant, high-quality contributions in this constantly expanding field.

Music Research Topics FAQ

A good music research topic should be between 10 to 12 words long. Long, wordy music essay topics are usually confusing. They can make it difficult for readers to understand the goal of your research. Avoid using lengthy phrases or vague terms that could confuse the reader.

Journal articles are the best place to find helpful resources for your music research. You can explore reputable, high-impact journal articles to see if any research has been done related to your chosen topic. Journal articles also help to provide data for comparison while carrying out your research.

Primary sources carry out their own research and cite their own data. In contrast, secondary sources report data obtained from a primary source. Although primary sources are regarded as more credible, you can include a good mixture of primary and secondary sources in your research.

The most common research methods for music research are qualitative, quantitative, descriptive, and analytical. Your research strategy is arguably the most crucial part of your study. You must learn different research methods to determine which one would be the perfect fit for your particular research question.

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83 Rock Music Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best rock music topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 good research topics about rock music, 🔎 interesting topics to write about rock music.

• Woodstock: Peace, Love and Rock n’ Roll The assassination of the President Kennedy and the Cold War contributed greatly to the rise of people’s concerns. Of course, the involvement of the country in the war in Vietnam was criticized by the majority […]
• Classical and Rock Music Genres As for the differences between rock and classical, the first thing that comes to mind is the length of the songs.
• Five New Approaches the Beatles Brought to the Rock and Roll Scene Undoubtedly, The Beatles are considered to be one of the greatest, most popular and revolutionary bands in the history of music. To begin with, the effect of The Beatles’ music on rock and roll in […]
• History of Rock Music: The Influence and Importance of Bon Jovi Jon Bon Jovi is among such influencers and redefiners of the rock anthem, and the purpose of this paper is to study his career and find out why it is crucial to include Jovi in […]
• Kurt Cobain: Pure Devotion Killed a “Rock Star” Kurt Cobain is one of the most prominent personalities of the American rock’n’roll culture, he “has been hailed as the first true rock’n’roll star of the nineties”[1]. He was in the spotlight of media, he […]
• History of Rock Music: Aerosmith The band drew their inspiration from the British blues rock that dominated the rock scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s, such as Cream, Led Zeppelin, Jeff Beck Group, and the Rolling Stones.
• The Evolution of Heavy Metal Rock Music in UK and US In the United States, the tempo of heavy metal music is slower than the heavy metal rock music in Great Britain.
• Researching of Hard Rock Movement The band differs from the genre’s originators in their more melodic sound; however, it shows a resemblance to the hard rock establishers such as Led Zeppelin in the complex musical patterns.
• Rock Music and Led Zeppelin’s Impact on It Led Zeppelin was a British rock band that performed in the classic rock genre with occasional elements of folk. In conclusion, the rock genre originated from a unique collection of different cultures that shaped its […]
• Southern Rock and Its Peculiarities The mix of these instruments and the song’s time put it in a genre of blues rock. Here, the combination of the instruments, Clapton’s solos as the major part of the performance, and the song’s […]
• The Pearl Jam Rock Concert 2022 The carefully selected Set List contained some of the all-time favorites “Of the Girl”, “Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town”, “Super blood Wolf moon” and others. The concert was splendid with a […]
• Deviant Behavior of Punk, Metal, and Rock Fans However, this music and the dressing style associated with it were perceived as “the proof of the degeneracy of capitalist culture and evidence of the disaffected youth of the West”.
• The Emergence and Popularity of Indie Rock Vampire Weekend and Connor Oberst were next: the former being dance-oriented and afro-pop-influenced creators and the latter being an indie-maker who worked with a range of labels.
• Rap and Rock: Combination of Styles Another prominent example of the rap-rock style is Limp Bizkit the band’s style is similar to Korn in that the musicians utilize a fusion of rap and rock and use the seven-string guitar and screaming.
• Punk Rock: The History of Genre Their lyrics were unfiltered, abrasive, and frequently political, which proceeded to later become one of the staples of the punk genre.
• Pre-Recorded Rock Concert: Fundraising The phenomenon of mega-events is a unique conjunction of forces that calls into question the fundamental nomenclature of mass culture and the understanding of the nature of political action.
• The Demise of the First Rock’s Wave In addition, the growing popularity of rock and roll threatened the business interests of the major record companies and labels. The following payola scandal resulted in the removal of rock and roll from radio station […]
• Annotated Bibliography of Rock Analysis Sources The authors of this book conduct a worldwide and large-scale study of the role of rock motifs and certain musical instruments in the life of primitive societies. This book explores the relationship between culture and […]
• The Rhythm Section in Creating Rock Music The bass player follows the drummer and connects the rhythmic and harmonic music, providing bass notes to the guitar and keyboards. Overall, the drums, bass, and guitar assemble a special basis for the song and […]
• Rock and Roll as a Musical Phenomenon Rock and roll are one of the brightest phenomena in the history of music. Their role was to enhance the quality and variety of rock and roll.
• Rhythm-and-Blues and Rock-n-Roll in the 1950s Rhythm-and-Blues and Rock-n-Roll rose in the 1950s and became the most dominant music genre among the youth. Rhythm-and-Blues and Rock-n-Roll came as a solution for safeguarding the place of radio in entertainment and communication.
• Beatles Contribution to Rock Music If we analyze the time when the Beatles performed it was a time of revolution, a time of youthful change and creativity and the Beatles were a major part of that revolution.
• Performance Studies. Hair Rock Musical To bomb, lynch and segregate! “The songs had many reference to the different races and tribes stating the anti civilization, anti consumerism with a naturalistic focus of the hair” Johnson. The impact of hair created […]
• Development of Rock & Roll Music Introduction of Rock and roll music had major effects in the cultural background of the Americans as it created a generation gap which made the youth to be rebellious to their parents.
• Rock and Roll`s Influence on Modern Music According to, “Effective skills of the player combined with efficient music instrument provide a significant role in determining the quality of music because they shape the form, color and texture of the music all of […]
• Rock and Roll Development Since 1992 The greatest contribution of the Rolling Stones into the Rock and Roll development in the 1990s was that they sustained the popularity of this musical style.
• Music Education and Rock Music The aim of this research proposal is to explore the possibility of teaching Rock music and /or the inclusion of teaching Rock music with ensembles in the school.
• Rock as a Part of Music Art The history and the origins of that music show that the seditious features of rock were caused by various factors. First of all, to define the harm of rock music, we need to get acquainted […]
• Women’s Contribution to Rock Music Development Joplin was the queen of psychedelic and blues rock, and one of the most influential figures in punk rock was Patti Smith who became the female leader of the punk movement in the 1970s.
• Alternative Rock Soothed Millions: Hybrid Theory The alternative rock scene that emerged in the 1980’s and gained further popularity in the 1990’s provided the youth of the 2000’s with a soundtrack to the emotional struggles that they experienced in the environment […]
• Rock’n’Roll: Musical Genre of the Twentieth Century Being quite intense, the guitar solo in the middle of the song introduces the energy of rock and roll and also helps to express the disappointment in love, one of the key themes in rock […]
• Disco, Rock, Jazz and Popular Music: Comparison With the support of God, the songs encourage the audience to believe in the power of God to overcome the unfortunate events.
• Rock Music as an Unique Cultural Phenomenon The emergence of such an expressive music style was made possible by the invention of the electric guitar in the 20s of the XX century and by the social transformations of the postwar period.
• Rock Music of the 1970s It is possible to note that the 1970s was the period when the basis of the contemporary rock music and culture was formed.
• In the Rhythm of Rock: Supreme Sound Explosion Seeing how it involves a careful consideration of the existing resources, the careful evaluation of all possible transportation issues, the comparison of the costs for transportation and the self-cost of the product that is going […]
• The Irish Rock Band U2 as a Modern Critique of Religion According to Bono sermon virtues, instead of preaching to the presidents, the rock stars should give aid to the poor Africans and the sick.
• Canuck Rock: A History of Canadian Popular Music Besides, the book helps one understand the evolution process of the Canadian music industry.”Canuck Rock” is a determined assessment of the inception and development of trendy music in Canada starting from the late 1950s to […]
• Music Styles: Indie Rock The Killers is one of the most popular indie rock bands in the USA. The Killers is one of the most popular bands performing the indie rock music.
• Beatles – The Influential Performing Group in the History of Rock
• American Culture and American Rock Music
• The Influence of Rock Music on Youth
• Rock’s Departure from Norms: Music and Social Change
• Does Heavy Metal Rock Music Encourage Violence in Teenagers?
• The Differences between Pop Music and Rock Music
• Rock Stars Music Icons: Alcohol and Drug Overdose
• Great Rock Musicians: Their Achievements and Effect on Music
• Violence and Music: What Causes People to Become Violent at Rock Concerts
• The Origins, Music History, and Achievements of the Rock Group ‘Beatles’
• Japanese Culture and Japanese Popular Rock Music
• Historical Precedents for the Rise of Rock Music
• Rock Music and Heavy Metal Bands
• Popular Culture, Rock Music, and Tattoos
• Features of Rock Music Culture during the Early 1970s
• The Influence Rock and Rap Music Has on Young People
• Changes and Influences between 1955 to 1965 on Rock Music
• The Woodstock Festival and the Music of the 60s: A Peaceful Rock Revolution
• Hard Rock and Postmodernism
• Rock Music, Drugs, and the Influence They Had on the Baby Boomer Generation
• The Fascination with Rock Music in the 1960s
• Why You Need to Appreciate and Understand Rock Music
• Evaluating the Negative and Positive Effects of Rock Music on the Society
• Relationship between Rock Music and Political Lyrics
• Baroque Era Music Compared to Modern Rock
• Rock vs. Classical Music: Pros and Cons of Each Type of Music, as well as a Comparison of Styles
• Aggression and Hard Rock: Attitude of Rock Music
• The Influence of Classical Music on Rock
• What Defines Alternative Rock
• Argument That There Exists No Connection between Suicide and Rock Music
• Rock Music and Limited Sexual Repression in the 1960s
• The Early History and Characteristics of Rock Music
• Rock Music Has Widely Influenced Music and Society
• Classic Rock and Generation X: Fulfilling Rock`s Promise
• Rock Music Effects and Values
• Facts about the Beatles as the Greatest and Influential Artist of the Rock Era
• Youth Subculture, Slang, and Rock Music
• Rock and Hip-Hop – The Most Loved Forms of Music
• How Rock Music Reflected the Society of the Sixties
• Rock Music Has an Impact on the Youth That Puts Society at Risk
• Comparing Rock Music and Hip-Hop
• The Rock Music Era Affected Society in More Negative Ways than Positive Ones
• Rock Music and Famous Rock Bands
• The connection between Rock Music and the 1970s Drug Culture
• Festival Essay Ideas
• Hip Hop Essay Topics
• Music Topics
• Subculture Research Topics
• The Beatles Questions
• Jazz Research Topics
• Popular Music Paper Topics
• Ritz-Carlton Topics
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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206 Best Music Research Topics That Rock The Stage

Music is one of the greatest sensations in human life. If you are writing a music research paper, you have to make sure that the topic is eye-catching. Most importantly, it should move and make you dance yourself. The topic that you are not interested in will not only make you weary, but the results would be unsatisfying too. That is why our writers have found music research paper topics for you to save the day. We love music very much, and so  our team  offers an Academic paper writing service , so you can trust word.

Table of Contents

Music Research Topics: History, Technical Music, Contemporary And More

Although our writers mainly offer research paper writing services , they did not hesitate for a bit when we asked them to come up with some music research topics for you. You can use any of these 206 topics for free and modify them to fit your needs and match your taste. Read on!

Music History Research Topics

• Use of songwriting in relation to the political and social situations in Nazi Germany and the French Revolution
• Musical Education between two centuries
• Evolution in the definition of music over the centuries
• Birth of Music in Mesopotamia
• Impact of Arab-Andalusian music on renaissance
• Folklore bands of wind music, a cultural manifestation of the people and for the people
• Harmonic implications studied by Pythagoras
• Music from Ancient Greek
• Importance of Music in Greek Mythology
• Song of the Sirens in the evolution of music
• Greece, music, poetry, and dance
• Athens was a center of musical poets in BC era
• Classical Greek Style Music
• Yanni: A Musician that fuses Modern and Classical Greek Music into one
• Role of Music in Greek Tragedy
• Famous musical-dramatic pieces
• Heroic poets: Arab poets that formed the bases of European music
• Performances in amphitheatres by singers-actors-dancers
• Classical musician considered himself more of a performer than an author
• Ritual dance with kettledrums around the fire: Musical Traditions of Pagan cultures
• Classification of primitive musical instruments
• Music in China
• Music in Mayan Tradition
• Apache and Native American Music
• How Africans and Columbians formed the modern American music
• The musical theory and the instruments used in Japan
• Bagaki for Japanese Emperor ceremonies
• Evolution of Indian Music
• Music in the Mughal Empire
• Anarkali: A musical myth with a royal background
• Christian Music, Hymns and Choirs

Read More:  Psychology Research Paper Topics

Technical Music research topics

• Similarity measures, including rhythmic and melodic similarity.
• Phylogenetic analysis of music.
• National Center for Music Diffusion
• Mathematical measures of rhythmic complexity and syncopation
• Musical transformations of rhythm and melody
• Automatic analysis of traditional music, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and African music
• The mathematical theory of rhythm
• Musical constructivism
• Model models (MM) and counter models (CM)
• The role of sound design in video games and its application to contemporary independent works
• Mathematical and computational modeling of musical phenomena (grouping, phrasing, tension, etc.)
• A mathematical theory of tuning and temperament systems
• Teaching mathematics through art
• Music visualization
• History of Modern Columbian Music
• Acoustic-instrumental composition, electroacoustic and sound art
• Interpretation and musical investigation
• sound production
• Transcription and music editing
• Recovery of musical heritage
• Studies of music, literature, culture, and colonial anthropology
• Music by European composers of the 16th century (Renaissance)
• Education and technology in educational scenarios of musical training

Read More:  Finance Research Topics

Music Argument Topics

• Visual Media Music Studio
• Music as an important expression in the history of the world
• Conversations about music, culture, and identity
• The architectural space as a link between music and the citizen
• Music Schools for children and young people with limited resources
• Role of practice and need for devotion in learning and acing the musical skills

Read More:  Accounting Research Topics

Contemporary Music research topics

• Impact of Coke Studio: From Pakistan to take over the world
• Effects of Modern Music on Youth
• Musical Martyrs: Freddie Mercury, Amy Winehouse, Elvis Presley
• Music of Hans Zimmer
• Production and exhibition of contemporary music
• Entertainment and music centres
• Non-formal music schools
• Music and education today
• Contemporary Mexican music
• Satanism movement in modern music
• Western musical history and “modern” music
• Journey of Music: From the Medieval Family to the Modern Family
• Importance of Opera in the modern age
• Evolution of music over time: From orchestra to electric
• Self-management and promotion of independent music
• Music of electric musicians: Alan Walker, Serhat Durmus, Chain Smokers
• Modern Music, A Wonderful Expression
• The idiomatic reality of the English language
• Modern Music in the United States
• Current music pedagogy
• Music education in the twentieth century

Read More:  Research Paper Topics

Classic Music Research Topics

• Classic music of South Asia
• Classic music of Africa
• Classic Arab music, the influence of Soad, Um Kalthum
• What makes classic music so important and why do we still have to reserve it?
• Music of Beethoven, Mozart and Brahms
• Use of classic music in the film
• Beethoven: How he lived, composed and died
• Life and music of Mozart
• Classical music by Afro-American women
• Music in classical films
• Greatest compositions of 19-20th centuries
• Style and compositions of Einaudi
• Music during the classical period
• Classical Music Criticism

Read More:  Business Research Topics

African music research topics

• The Effects of Slave Music on American History and African-American Music
• The use of Afro-Caribbean rhythms for the construction of jazz musical moments
• African folk music of Cuba
• History of African-American Popular Music
• African diversity in music
• The study of the oral and musical traditions of the Afro-Mexicans
• Studies of African Musical History and Its relationship with modern society
• South African influences on American music
• African music in Mali
• African music: South Africa
• Music of the Middle East and North Africa

Read More:  Nursing Research Topics

Pop Culture Music Research Topics

• The pedagogical models of popular music
• Music throughout the decades of musicals
• Brad Paisley and Country Music
• The Effects of Music on the popular culture
• Hip-hop/rap music: One of the most popular musical genres
• The influence of rap music on teenagers
• Irish Music: Music and Touch Other Irish Dance Music

Read More:  Qualitative Research Topics

Music Theory Topics

• Genre and music preferences
• The effect of instrumental music on word recall memory
• Sample Music and Wellness
• The music industry
• The Theme of Death in a Musical 
• The Effects of Globalization on MusicMusic psychology research topics
• The potential of music therapy to develop soft skills at the organizational level
• Listening to music as a way to relieve stress for teens
• The impact of theatricality within contemporary popular music concerts of the psychedelic, glam, and progressive rock genre 
• Trying music as therapy
• How music can help students with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyper Disorder)
• How can music help reduce work stress and maintain a healthy work environment
• Musical manifestations of man consist of the externalization

Read More:  US History Research Topics

Music Education Research Topics

• New pragmatism in music education
• Importance and effects of musical education
• Philosophy of Music Education
• Music, a tool to educate
• Competencies in music education
• Music as a strategy to encourage children’s effective learning 
• Interconnection between music and education
• Philosophy of musical education

Read More: High School Research Paper Topics

Persuasive Speech Topics About Music

• The music is a true reflection of the essay of American society
• Music and Its Effects on Society 
• Matter Of Metal Music
• Beethoven’s Twelfth Symphony: the second movement of the symphonic essay
• Messages in music
• The benefits of music trial
• Does music affect blood pressure?
• Music Industry Research: An Epic Battle With Youtube
• Entertainment and education Via music
• Whitman’s music as a means of expression
• Music and its Effect on the World
• Music: Essay on Music and Learning Disabilities

Read More:  Political Science Research Topics

Music Controversial Topics

• Whether or not profanations in music corrupt our youth
• Drugs and rock and roll
• Piracy and the music industry
• Music censorship is a violation of freedom of expression
• Music censorship
• The use and overuse of the music

Read More:  Criminal Justice Research Paper Topics

Music Industry Topics

• Freedom of expression and rap music
• Censorship in the music industry
• Influence of music on culture
• Analysis of Iranian film music
• Analysis of the Turkish Music Industry
• Analysis of the South Asian Music Industry
• Coke Studio Making and Global Impact
• The digital revolution: how technology changed the workflow of music composers for media
• Video music as matter in motion
• Acoustic and interpretive characteristics of the instruments
• The study of musical composition based on pictorial works
• Musical prosody of the interpretation

Read More:  Social Work Research Topics

Arab Music Research Paper Topic

• Arab music industry: Evolution after colonialism
• Music of Middle
• Umm Kulthum: Effects on global music
• How the Arab music still impacts Asian and American Music
• Effects of Arab music in popular French music
• Turkish and Arab Music: A Beautiful cultural fusion
• Arab Heroic Poets of Andalus and how they formed modern European music
• Revival of Arab music through electrical genre

Read More:  Medical Research Topics

Music Thesis Topics

• Film Industry Classical Music
• Finding Meaning in a Musical 
• Music and its effect on my interpretation
• How music can interact with politics
• Musical phrases and the modal centres of interest of the melody 
• Effect of ambient music on sleep trials
• Main characteristics of the musical organization
• Study Of Cadences And Other Harmonic Processes In The Light Of Consonance And Dissonance Theories
• Theoretical-experimental Study Of Percussion, Wind And String Instruments
• Recognition Of The Instruments Of The Orchestra
• Compositive Algorithms Using Unconventional Musical Magnitudes
• Development Of A Microtonal Harmony As A Generalization Of The Common Practice Period
• Mechanism related to the recognition of specific emotions in music
• Musical emotion (emotion induction)

Read More:  Biology Research Paper Topics

High School Research Paper Topics on Music

• Correlation Between Personality and Musical Preferences Essay
• Effects of Rock Music on Teenagers
• Does popular music stay popular?
• The effect of music on the interpretation of a musical
• Musical activities in a spiral of development
• Adolescents in the understanding of contemporary processes of music
• Musical activities in the content system
• Music and the value of responsibility
• Presentation of musical fragments, Performance of live or recorded musical instruments
• Life stories of composers and musical personalities such as Mozart and Beethoven
• Presentation of music related to tastes and socio-educational reality
• Exhibition of musical fragments and execution of instruments
• Presentation of different types of music, the performance of musical instruments live or recorded
• Experience composing music, with lyrics, instrumental or with sounds from the environment, what musical genre or type of sound production does it represent?
• The practice of the studied musical instruments, record the meanings that guide your performance and preparation as a student and for life
• Why is compliance with the vocal techniques of singing a duty that must be assumed consciously?
• Does all music express sound? Does every sound express a genre or type of music?
• Practice sound emission and tuning techniques
• Why is it important to make movements according to the type of music you listen to?

Music is one of the greatest inventions of the human race. All good music makes your heart beat a little faster and soothes your mind into peace. It has been evolving since the dawn of civilization, 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia. Whatever research you make about it, just make sure that it touches your heart. 

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• A Research Guide
• Research Paper Topics

120 Music Research Paper Topics

How to choose a topic for music research paper:.

Music Theory Research Paper Topics:

• The influence of harmonic progression on emotional response in music
• Analyzing the use of chromaticism in the compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach
• The role of rhythm and meter in creating musical tension and release
• Examining the development of tonality in Western classical music
• Exploring the impact of cultural and historical context on musical form and structure
• Investigating the use of polyphony in Renaissance choral music
• Analyzing the compositional techniques of minimalist music
• The relationship between melody and harmony in popular music
• Examining the influence of jazz improvisation on contemporary music
• The role of counterpoint in the compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven
• Investigating the use of microtonality in experimental music
• Analyzing the impact of technology on music composition and production
• The influence of musical modes on the development of different musical genres
• Exploring the use of musical symbolism in film scoring
• Investigating the role of music theory in the analysis and interpretation of non-Western music

Music Industry Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of streaming services on music consumption patterns
• The role of social media in promoting and marketing music
• The effects of piracy on the music industry
• The influence of technology on music production and distribution
• The relationship between music and mental health
• The evolution of music genres and their impact on the industry
• The economics of live music events and festivals
• The role of record labels in shaping the music industry
• The impact of globalization on the music industry
• The representation and portrayal of gender in the music industry
• The effects of music streaming platforms on artist revenue
• The role of music education in fostering talent and creativity
• The influence of music videos on audience perception and engagement
• The impact of music streaming on physical album sales
• The role of music in advertising and brand marketing

Music Therapy Research Paper Topics:

• The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing anxiety in cancer patients
• The impact of music therapy on improving cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
• Exploring the use of music therapy in managing chronic pain
• The role of music therapy in promoting emotional well-being in children with autism spectrum disorder
• Music therapy as a complementary treatment for depression: A systematic review
• The effects of music therapy on stress reduction in pregnant women
• Examining the benefits of music therapy in improving communication skills in individuals with developmental disabilities
• The use of music therapy in enhancing motor skills rehabilitation after stroke
• Music therapy interventions for improving sleep quality in patients with insomnia
• Exploring the impact of music therapy on reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• The role of music therapy in improving social interaction and engagement in individuals with schizophrenia
• Music therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention for managing symptoms of dementia
• The effects of music therapy on pain perception and opioid use in hospitalized patients
• Exploring the use of music therapy in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety during surgical procedures
• The impact of music therapy on improving quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease

Music Psychology Research Paper Topics:

• The effects of music on mood and emotions
• The role of music in enhancing cognitive abilities
• The impact of music therapy on mental health disorders
• The relationship between music and memory recall
• The influence of music on stress reduction and relaxation
• The psychological effects of different genres of music
• The role of music in promoting social bonding and cohesion
• The effects of music on creativity and problem-solving abilities
• The psychological benefits of playing a musical instrument
• The impact of music on motivation and productivity
• The psychological effects of music on physical exercise performance
• The role of music in enhancing learning and academic performance
• The influence of music on sleep quality and patterns
• The psychological effects of music on individuals with autism spectrum disorder
• The relationship between music and personality traits

Music Education Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of music education on cognitive development in children
• The effectiveness of incorporating technology in music education
• The role of music education in promoting social and emotional development
• The benefits of music education for students with special needs
• The influence of music education on academic achievement
• The importance of music education in fostering creativity and innovation
• The relationship between music education and language development
• The impact of music education on self-esteem and self-confidence
• The role of music education in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity
• The effects of music education on students’ overall well-being and mental health
• The significance of music education in developing critical thinking skills
• The role of music education in enhancing students’ teamwork and collaboration abilities
• The impact of music education on students’ motivation and engagement in school
• The effectiveness of different teaching methods in music education
• The relationship between music education and career opportunities in the music industry

Music History Research Paper Topics:

• The influence of African music on the development of jazz in the United States
• The role of women composers in classical music during the 18th century
• The impact of the Beatles on the evolution of popular music in the 1960s
• The cultural significance of hip-hop music in urban communities
• The development of opera in Italy during the Renaissance
• The influence of folk music on the protest movements of the 1960s
• The role of music in religious rituals and ceremonies throughout history
• The evolution of electronic music and its impact on contemporary music production
• The contribution of Latin American musicians to the development of salsa music
• The influence of classical music on film scores in the 20th century
• The role of music in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
• The development of reggae music in Jamaica and its global impact
• The influence of Mozart’s compositions on the classical music era
• The role of music in the French Revolution and its impact on society
• The evolution of punk rock music and its influence on alternative music genres

Music Sociology Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of music streaming platforms on the music industry
• The role of music in shaping cultural identity
• Gender representation in popular music: A sociological analysis
• The influence of social media on music consumption patterns
• Music festivals as spaces for social interaction and community building
• The relationship between music and political activism
• The effects of globalization on local music scenes
• The role of music in constructing and challenging social norms
• The impact of technology on music production and distribution
• Music and social movements: A comparative study
• The role of music in promoting social change and social justice
• The influence of socioeconomic factors on music taste and preferences
• The role of music in constructing and reinforcing gender stereotypes
• The impact of music education on social and cognitive development
• The relationship between music and mental health: A sociological perspective

Classical Music Research Paper Topics:

• The influence of Ludwig van Beethoven on the development of classical music
• The role of women composers in classical music history
• The impact of Johann Sebastian Bach’s compositions on future generations
• The evolution of opera in the classical period
• The significance of Mozart’s symphonies in the classical era
• The influence of nationalism on classical music during the Romantic period
• The portrayal of emotions in classical music compositions
• The use of musical forms and structures in the works of Franz Joseph Haydn
• The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the production and dissemination of classical music
• The relationship between classical music and dance in the Baroque era
• The role of patronage in the development of classical music
• The influence of folk music on classical composers
• The representation of nature in classical music compositions
• The impact of technological advancements on classical music performance and recording
• The exploration of polyphony in the works of Johann Sebastian Bach

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Articles on Rock music

Displaying 1 - 20 of 58 articles.

It’s thrilling to see female-led groups like The Beaches claim space in rock culture at Junos 2024 and elsewhere

Jacqueline Warwick , Dalhousie University

Kiss’s debut album at 50: how the rock legends went from ‘clowns’ to becoming immortalised

Charlotte Markowitsch , RMIT University

Billy Joel is back for an encore − but why did he wait so long to turn the lights back on?

Ryan Raul Bañagale , Colorado College

As Dark Side of the Moon: Redux shows, when it comes to lyrics, less is usually more

Glenn Fosbraey , University of Winchester

The Dark Side of the Moon at 50: how Marx, trauma and compassion all influenced Pink Floyd’s masterpiece

Alexander Howard , University of Sydney

‘Grief can have a chastening effect’: in Faith, Hope and Carnage Nick Cave plumbs religion, creativity and human frailty

Lyn McCredden , Deakin University

Moonage Daydream: brilliant Bowie film takes big risks to create something truly new

Lisa Perrott , University of Waikato

With the strokes of a guitar solo, Joni Mitchell showed us how our female music elders are super punks

Janelle K Johnstone , La Trobe University

Was there anything real about Elvis Presley?

Michael T. Bertrand , Tennessee State University

Exile on Main St turns 50: how The Rolling Stones’ critically divisive album became rock folklore

Dean Biron , Queensland University of Technology

Is it possible to listen to too much music each day?

Rami Toubia Stucky , University of Virginia

Meat Loaf – a complicated musical giant

Duncan Wheeler , University of Leeds

Friday essay: Nevermind 30 years on – how Nirvana’s second album tilted the world on its axis

With his signature guitar style, Eddie Van Halen changed rock music

Ken Murray , The University of Melbourne

On the 50th anniversary of her death, Janis Joplin still ignites

Leigh Carriage , Southern Cross University

Paul Kelly biography traces his journey but not his work with young artists today

Liz Giuffre , University of Technology Sydney

Peter Green: troubled Fleetwood Mac founder leaves legacy of brilliance that shines still

Adam Behr , Newcastle University

40 years of Laibach – is this Slovenian avant-garde band the most controversial in rock history?

Andrew Dawson , The University of Melbourne

The 1950s queer black performers who inspired Little Richard

Ben Saunders , University of Oregon

How Little Richard helped launch the Beatles

Clint Randles , University of South Florida

Related Topics

• Elvis Presley
• Music history
• Rock and roll
• Rock 'n' roll
• The Beatles
• The Rolling Stones

Top contributors

Senior Lecturer in Popular and Contemporary Music, Newcastle University

PhD in cultural studies; teaches in School of Justice, Queensland University of Technology

Associate professor, University of Bradford

Associate Professor in Guitar, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, The University of Melbourne

Professor in Spanish Studies, University of Leeds

Associate professor Music and Media, University of Gloucestershire

Director of Studies, Cultural Heritage Management, University of York

Personal Chair, Literary Studies, Deakin University

Senior Lecturer & Researcher in Screen and Media Studies, University of Waikato

Associate Professor in Politics, Rhodes University

Adjunct Research Fellow, Humanitarian and Development Research Initiative, Western Sydney University

Professor of Music Education, University of South Florida

Senior Lecturer in Communication, University of Technology Sydney

Morse Alumni Distinguished Teaching Professor of Music, University of Minnesota

Lecturer in Communications and Media, University of Notre Dame Australia

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66 Rock Music Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on rock music, 🌶️ hot rock music essay topics, 🎓 most interesting rock music research titles, 💡 simple rock music essay ideas.

• American Hard Rock in Relation to Society
• The Eraserheads Alternative Rock Band
• Discrimination of Women in Rock and Roll
• Punk Rock: Origins and Impact on Society
• Coal: The Rock That Moved the World
• Pink Floyd: The Rock Legends
• A Rock Concert by Kansas
• Mekons: The Punk Rock Band and Its Artworks The paper states that rock and folklore music were not a perfect match, but the Mekons band, has made it work acoustically and ideologically.
• Music: The 00s and Modern Latin Alternative Rock This essay is a summary of the author’s listening experience in Latin rock music, providing reactions to the Latin classic rock of the 00s and the modern Latin alternative rock.
• Continental Collision, Rock Deformation, and Folds The paper states that continental collision is a process of two continents pushing each other, which leads to the growth of a mountain belt.
• Rock Star Stephen Hawking Story of Unextinguished Enthusiasm for Life Stephen Hawking is astronomy’s most improbable rock star with smart brains caught in a weak body and a worldwide model to persons with disabilities.
• Rock Movement Through the Rolling Stones Rock is one of the most outstanding movements in the music industry, and the Rolling Stones established the pattern for rock with their song “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”
• Rock: Composers, and Special Features of the Genre Rock is a genre of music that originated in the United States in the late 1940s and became extremely popular throughout the years.
• Evolution of Rock and Roll in Radio Rock and roll is a music genre that emerged during the close of 1940s and the dawn of early 1950s in the southern region of the United States.
• The Hard Rock Rockfest: Baseline and Crash Schedule Taking November 8, 2010, as the start date and assuming the default of four weeks each month, the baseline ending date would be the week of June 26, 2011.
• Grunge Rock History in the United States The grunge rock musical movement appeared in the United States at the end of the twentieth century and quickly spread throughout the globe.
• Connection Between Rock Music and the 1970s Drug Culture
• Bill Graham: Wolfgang Grajonca, a Pioneer in Hosting Rock Music Events
• Describing the Aggression and Hard Rock Attitude of Rock Music
• Almost Famous: Features Rock Music Culture During the Early 1970s
• Japanese Popular Rock Music and Japanese Culture
• Relationship Between Rock Music and Political Lyrics
• Classical Music vs. Rock Music
• Backmasking: Rock Music and Messages
• Music Industry and Rock Music in Bangladesh: Perspectives From Young Educated People
• Does Rock Music Corrupt the Young?
• Songs That Developed Rock Music
• Rock Music Does Not Foster Bad Behavior
• American Rock Music and the Culture of America
• Punk Rock Music and Style
• Evaluating the Negative and Positive Effects of Rock Music on Society
• Concerts Across Time: Baroque Music and Rock Music
• The Differences Between Pop Music and Rock Music
• How the Beatles Changed Rock Music
• Rock Music: Affecting the Entity of Youth That Subject the Society to Bear the Risk
• Comparing Hip Hop and Rock Music
• Slang, Youth Subculture, and Rock Music
• Argument That There Exists No Connection Between Suicide and Rock Music
• Rock Music and Drugs and the Influence They Had on the Baby Boomer Generation
• Black Men Can’t Rock? Towards an Understanding of the Lack of Black Men in Rock Music
• Contradicting the Social Norm: Rock Music as a Sin That Will Send You to Hell According to the Youth Group Pastor in Church
• How Rock Music Reflected Society in the Sixties
• The History of Rock Music
• Understanding and Appreciating Rock Music
• Rock Music and Rolling Stones
• Differences in Rock Music Between China and Japan
• Seeking for God: Russian Rock Music and Religion
• Rock Music Trends in the Last 100 Years
• The Effects and Values of Rock Music
• Should Rock Music Earn More Appreciation Than Modern Music?
• Baroque Era and Rock Music
• The History of Rock Music and Its Effect on American Society
• Why Rock Music Is Beneficial to Society
• The Beginning and Development of Rock Music
• Southern Rock Music Comparison
• Relationship Between Rock Music and Suicide
• The Fascination With Rock Music in the 1960s
• Changes and Influences Between 1955 to 1965 on Rock Music
• The Decline of Rock Music in Public Schools
• Rock Music and Confined Sexual Repression in the 1960s
• The Impact of Different Musical Streams on the Forming of Rock Music
• Death in the Rock Music Industry
• The Movement, Drugs, and Rock Music
• Hardcore Music and the Rock Music
• The Rock Music Era Affected Society in More Negative Ways Than Positive Ones
• Rock Music and Outstanding Rock Bands

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These essay examples and topics on Rock Music were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on December 28, 2023 .

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Home » 500+ Music Research Topics

500+ Music Research Topics

Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, bring people together, and express complex ideas and feelings. As a result, it has been the subject of extensive research and analysis across a wide range of fields, from psychology and neuroscience to sociology and cultural studies. Whether you are a music student, researcher , or simply a curious enthusiast, there are countless fascinating and important topics to explore within the realm of music research. From the history and evolution of different musical genres to the impact of music on human behavior and cognition, the possibilities for investigation and discovery are virtually endless. In this post, we will highlight some of the most interesting and relevant music research topics that you can explore in your own studies or simply as a way to deepen your appreciation and understanding of this rich and diverse art form.

Music Research Topics

Music Research Topics are as follows:

• The impact of music on memory retention.
• The evolution of hip-hop music and its influence on popular culture.
• The relationship between music and emotions.
• The role of music in religious and spiritual practices.
• The effects of music on mental health.
• The impact of music on athletic performance.
• The role of music in therapy and rehabilitation.
• The evolution of classical music through the ages.
• The impact of technology on music creation and distribution.
• The relationship between music and language acquisition.
• The cultural significance of music in different parts of the world.
• The influence of popular music on politics and social issues.
• The impact of music on academic performance.
• The role of music in film and television.
• The use of music in advertising and marketing.
• The psychology of musical preferences.
• The effects of music on sleep patterns and quality.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity.
• The influence of music on fashion and style.
• The impact of music education on childhood development.
• The role of music in memory recall and nostalgia.
• The effects of music on physical health.
• The relationship between music and brain development.
• The impact of music on the immune system.
• The influence of music on social behavior.
• The evolution of jazz music and its impact on society.
• The role of music in cultural preservation and identity.
• The effects of music on stress levels and anxiety.
• The relationship between music and social movements.
• The impact of music on language learning and pronunciation.
• The effects of music on learning and cognition.
• The influence of music on political ideologies and movements.
• The impact of music on academic achievement.
• The relationship between music and cultural assimilation.
• The role of music in international diplomacy.
• The effects of music on physical performance and endurance.
• The impact of music on memory consolidation and recall.
• The influence of music on fashion trends and subcultures.
• The role of music in socialization and identity formation.
• The effects of music on perception and attention.
• The impact of music on decision making and judgment.
• The relationship between music and romantic attraction.
• The role of music in social justice movements.
• The effects of music on motor skills and coordination.
• The influence of music on cultural exchange and globalization.
• The impact of music on language and cultural barriers.
• The relationship between music and cultural appropriation.
• The role of music in community building and activism.
• The effects of music on motivation and goal setting.
• The influence of music on fashion advertising and marketing.
• The impact of music on social inequality and discrimination.
• The relationship between music and cultural hegemony.
• The role of music in political propaganda and manipulation.
• The effects of music on physical therapy and rehabilitation.
• The influence of music on cultural diplomacy and international relations.
• The impact of music on the environment and sustainability.
• The relationship between music and social hierarchies.
• The role of music in cultural exchange and intercultural communication.
• The effects of music on creative thinking and problem solving.
• The influence of music on consumer behavior and product preferences.
• The impact of music on social mobility and economic inequality.
• The relationship between music and cultural diversity.
• The role of music in intergenerational communication and conflict resolution.
• The effects of music on mood and emotional regulation.
• The influence of music on cultural authenticity and representation.
• The impact of music on memory in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
• The impact of music on recovery and rehabilitation in individuals with physical injuries.
• The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding in international education.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international relations.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international human rights.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with ADHD.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the food and beverage industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sexual orientations.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the finance industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international development.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the transportation industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-abilities.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in college students.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international cooperation.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the entertainment industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-language backgrounds.
• The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the tech startup industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international peacekeeping.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with traumatic brain injury.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the travel industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-socioeconomic backgrounds.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the education industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international cooperation.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the home appliance industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-culture backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in graduate students.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international diplomacy.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with attention deficit disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the construction industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-spiritual backgrounds.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the healthcare industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international justice.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the hospitality industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-political backgrounds.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the automotive industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international diplomacy.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with major depressive disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the telecommunications industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-ethnic and racial backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in high school students with disabilities.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international trade.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with borderline personality disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fashion industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-heritage backgrounds.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with schizophrenia.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the technology industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-race identities.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the hospitality industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in global development.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with social phobia.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the toy industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-faith backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in high school students.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with oppositional defiant disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the beauty industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-ethnicity backgrounds.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the fashion industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international aid.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with dementia.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fitness industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-gender identities.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the technology industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international tourism.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with anxiety disorders.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the pet industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-education backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in middle school students.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the home decor industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sex identities.
• The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the gaming industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international conflict resolution.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with bipolar disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the sports industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-nationality and mixed-linguistic backgrounds.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the retail industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in global governance.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with panic disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the electronics industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-citizenship backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in elementary school students.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international security.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with conduct disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the agriculture industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-religious backgrounds.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with traumatic brain injuries.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with disability identities.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in the healthcare industry.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with LGBTQ+ identities.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the gig economy.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in education policy.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-age identities.
• The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the advertising industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in urban planning.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the food industry.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the nonprofit sector.
• The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in international business.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with chronic pain.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the gaming industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sexual orientation identities.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural communication and understanding in foreign policy.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with social anxiety disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the craft industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-disability identities.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the media industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in corporate social responsibility.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with substance use disorders.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the automotive industry.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the education sector.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international law.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the wellness industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-nationality backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in adult learners.
• The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global governance.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the furniture industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-generational backgrounds.
• The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the film industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural integration and social cohesion in diverse communities.
• The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the tech industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in second-generation immigrants.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural communication and understanding in diplomacy.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and self-esteem in individuals with eating disorders.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the publishing industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in biracial and multiracial families.
• The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the workplace.
• The role of music in promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity in the criminal justice system.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with schizophrenia.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with refugee backgrounds.
• The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global marketing.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed religious backgrounds.
• The impact of music on academic achievement and retention in community college students.
• The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding in international development.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with bipolar disorder.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the luxury goods industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with immigrant parents.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the tech industry.
• The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in journalism.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the wine industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with non-binary gender identities.
• The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in remote workers.
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international relations.
• The role of music in promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity in diplomacy.
• The effects of music on emotional regulation and self-esteem in individuals with body dysmorphia.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with immigrant grandparents.
• The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global advertising.
• The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with borderline intellectual functioning.
• The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fragrance industry.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-citizenship status.
• The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the creative industries
• The relationship between music and social cohesion in diverse communities.
• The role of music in social justice movements and protests.
• The effects of music on pain management and perception.
• The influence of music on cultural hybridity and globalization.
• The impact of music on social identity and self-esteem.
• The relationship between music and cultural imperialism.
• The role of music in therapeutic settings for children and adolescents.
• The effects of music on language development in bilingual children.
• The influence of music on cultural representation in the media.
• The impact of music on interpersonal relationships and communication.
• The relationship between music and cultural hegemony in the digital age.
• The role of music in community-based initiatives for social change.
• The effects of music on mental health in marginalized communities.
• The influence of music on cultural identity and self-expression.
• The impact of music on academic engagement and success in at-risk students.
• The relationship between music and cultural appropriation in popular culture.
• The role of music in cultural diplomacy and international relations in the 21st century.
• The effects of music on cognitive processing in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• The influence of music on cultural hybridity and transnationalism.
• The impact of music on social justice advocacy and awareness-raising.
• The relationship between music and cultural resistance in marginalized communities.
• The role of music in the negotiation of cultural identities in the diaspora.
• The effects of music on language processing and learning in second language acquisition.
• The influence of music on cultural exchange and intercultural communication in the digital age.
• The impact of music on academic achievement in students with disabilities.
• The relationship between music and cultural hegemony in the music industry.
• The role of music in the socialization and empowerment of girls and women.
• The effects of music on physical health in individuals with chronic pain.
• The influence of music on cultural authenticity and representation in the tourism industry.
• The impact of music on the construction of gender and sexuality in popular culture.
• The relationship between music and cultural appropriation in the fashion industry.
• The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

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Best 100 music research topics (just updated).

If you are reading this, you are probably looking for the best music research topics for your next essay. Truth be told, choosing the right topic is very important. It can make the difference between a B and an A, or even between an A and an A+. Unfortunately, choosing the best topics is not as simple as you think. Even though the internet is full of music research topics, most of them are plain and, quite frankly, boring.

Your professor wants more than this. Let’s see why you need the most interesting topics and where you can find them. Of course, you are free to use any of our 100 topics for free and even reword them as you see fit. Read on!

Choosing Good Music Research Topics

By now, you are probably wondering why everyone keeps telling you to come up with the best music topics. The truth is that there are many, many benefits to choosing an awesome topic. Here are just some of them, so you can get a better idea of the importance of a great idea:

• Excellent music research paper topics show your professor that you really did your best to get a top grade.
• A good topic is one that you know much about. It should be relatively easy to you to research it and to write about it.
• An awesome topic will pique the interest of your professor and will keep him or her reading. You will often get bonus points for this.
• Great topics make you stand out from your classmates. Your professor will notice you, and the grade will reflect this.

Where Can You Find Decent Music Topics?

Finding amazing music research topics is easier said than done. Yes, the Internet is full of websites that are offering ideas. There are even websites where you can buy bundles of topics. However, the music argumentative essay topics you will get from these websites are not of the highest quality. Most of them are actually quite boring. And remember, you classmates are probably searching for music history research paper topics on the same websites as you do. You want your research topics on music or book review topics to be original, so your professor can have a reason to award your paper some bonus points. The best place to get excellent music topics to write about is this page. The list of ideas is updated frequently, so you can get an original topic for free right now.

Music History Research Topics

Are you looking for the most interesting music history research topics? If you do, just pick one from our list for free:

• How did the Catholic church influence Renaissance music?
• Social issues described in Baroque-period music.
• Analyze the evolution of Romantic-era music.
• How did the Baroque Opera come to be?
• Who invented Medieval music and when?
• Why has western music almost disappear in the last 10 years?
• Analyze the evolution of music in the Classical era.
• Analyzing violin music performance during the Romantic Era.

Music Argument Topics

Are you looking to find an argument and support it? Then you absolutely need to check out our exceptional list of music argument topics:

• Music today is better than music in the 90s.
• The most lucrative career for a musician.
• Music helps you memorize faster.
• The most popular kind of metal music.
• The evolution of blues songs over the last 30 years.
• Music helps children develop faster.
• Hip-hop is a misunderstood music genre.
• Jazz music is not obsolete.

Music Theory Topics

Interested in writing about music theory? Our amazing academic writers have put together a list of music theory topics for you:

• Analyze the most important aspects of modern music.
• Classical music has specific medical applications.
• Hidden symbols in Renaissance-period music.
• The unique features of Baroque-age music.
• Analyze the evolution of music in the Baroque era.
• The best music compositors in the Romantic era.
• Remarkable characteristics of Romantic-age songs.
• The peculiarities of Asian modern music.

Music Industry Topics

Writing about the music industry can be fun and entertaining. Your professor will love it. Pick one of our music industry topics and start writing:

• What do you associate rock music with and why?
• Should the music industry pay songwriters more?
• How does illegal pirating of songs affect the music industry?
• Do music sharing sites help new artists become famous.
• Analyze the evolution of music labels in the US.
• What differentiates a music label from all others?
• Music talent shows and their effects on a musician’s career.
• The difficulties of signing a contract with a major music label in the US.

Research Paper Topics on Music for High School

Are you a high school student? In this case, you will need our research paper topics on music for high school:

• The best compositors of the Baroque Era.
• What differentiates modern music from classical music?
• Notable women in classical music.
• Analyze the evolution of music in the Modern age.
• How was Beethoven’s music influenced by his loss of hearing?
• How would our world be without music?
• Does music cause negative effects on US teens?

Music Thesis Topics

Writing a thesis about music is not easy. In fact, it can be one of the most difficult projects in your academic career. Start right now by choosing one of the best music thesis topics:

• What made a musician stand out in the Baroque Age?
• The most notable musical experiments in the Classical age.
• Comparing Renaissance and Medieval music styles.
• Analyze the evolution of music in the Renaissance age.
• How did royalty in the UK benefit from music in the Renaissance era?
• Discuss a folk song from the Renaissance age.
• Differences between Asian and European classical music.

Music Controversial Topics

Music, like most other disciplines, has plenty of controversial topics you can talk about. Don’t waste any time and pick one of these music controversial topics:

• Does digital music cut the profits of musicians?
• Who owns the intellectual property to a song?
• The difficulties of getting songwriting credit.
• Illegal downloads are changing the music industry.
• Should music education still be included in the curriculum?
• Analyze medieval liturgical music.
• Music should be free for everyone to download and use.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Music

Are you required the write a persuasive speech about music? If you are, you may need a bit of help. Pick one of these persuasive speech topics about music (updated for 2023):

• Music has a significant effect on advertising.
• The changes rap music has brought to the US culture.
• Indie is a term that should not apply to music.
• Metal music should be banned from the US.
• Does listening to music have a great influence on mental health?
• The amazing evolution of music in the Medieval age.
• People should be free to listen to the music they like for free.
• The fashion industry wouldn’t be where it is today without music.

Easy Topics About Music

Perhaps you don’t want to spend 5 or 6 hours writing the research paper . You need an easier topic. Choose one of these easy topics about music and write the essay fast:

• How can one become a symbol of modern music?
• My favorite singer today.
• Which musician from the past would you bring back to life and why?
• Do politics influence modern music?
• Compare and contrast two music genres.
• Analyze the evolution of music in the modern age in the United States.
• The side effects of turning the volume too loud.
• How is classical music used in Disney movies?

Music Education Research Topics

Are you interested in talking about music education? Perhaps you’ll have some suggestions to make after you’ve done the research. Just choose one of the music education research topics below:

• Can E-Learning be applied to music education?
• Can music teachers offer distance learning services?
• The advantages and disadvantages of Zoom music lessons.
• Why are music worksheets so important for high school students?
• How did the Internet change music education?
• Why are modern music studies so important?
• Should we learn more about Asian music in school?
• How can students learn music while respecting COVID19 measures?

Highly Interesting Music Topics

We know you want a top grade on your next music research paper. We advise you to select one of these highly interesting music topics and surprise your professor:

• How did pop music came to existence and why?
• Analyze the history of hip-hop music.
• Compare metal music with classical music.
• Why is rock music so popular in the United Kingdom?
• Which song would best present our species to aliens?
• Compare and contrast Korean and Chinese music.
• Analyze the popular themes of Japanese music.
• The stunning rise of K-pop bands.

Informative Speech Topics About Music

It’s difficult to find good informative speech topics about music these days. If you want to stand out from the rest of your classmates, choose one of our topics:

• Discuss the ideas presented in romantic music.
• What do people who appreciate classic music have in common?
• Analyze the most popular Bach music.
• Describe the role of market music in the Baroque era.
• Analyze the evolution of European music.
• Ways to make classical music popular with teens in the UK.
• Discuss the most popular musical instrument in the Classical age.

Music Essay Topics for College

Are you a college student? If you want an A+ on your next research paper, use one of these music essay topics for college students:

• Does modern music contain medieval themes?
• Analyze a song from the Renaissance age.
• Why is blues music so important for our culture?
• Who invented the blues genre and when?
• Analyze the evolution of American folk music.
• Most popular names in Baroque-age songs.
• Modern interpretations of medieval songs.
• Listening to blues music can lead to depression.

Need some more music history paper topics? Or perhaps you need a list of music related research topics to choose from for your thesis. Our best paper writer can help you in no time. Get in touch with us and we guarantee that we will find the perfect music topic for your needs. You will be well on your way to getting the A+ you need. Give us a try and get an amazing research topic on music in 10 minutes or less!

Music encyclopedias

Articles, dissertations, conference proceedings, the four r-projects of international music scholarship, music research portals.

• Streaming audio and video
• Find music scores
• Online scores
• Musical images, manuscript sources, and musical instruments
• Music theory study aids
• Citations and writing guides

Performing Arts Librarian

Ask Laura Stokes

• Library of Congress: Performing Arts Encyclopedia The Performing Arts Encyclopedia is a collection of performing arts materials located at the Library of Congress.
• Rock's Backpages 1960-present; Rock's Backpages is a database of rock music writing, sourced from the pages of the music and mainstream press. Thousands of articles (reviews, interviews, features and more) for over 2,000 artists are available.
• MusicID This link opens in a new window Provides access to perpetually-updated charts information, including Billboard charts, iTunes downloads, Spotify and Apple Music streams, and Shazam searches. Also includes a revenue calculation tool. more... less... Current; Music ID is an academic research tool that utilizes powerful analytics to compile global music industry data. Incorporating 5,452 different charts spanning 74 countries, Music ID Data provides access to perpetually-updated, week-to-week information on iTunes downloads, Spotify and Apple Music streams, and Shazam searches, as well as contemporary and historical data from Billboard, the Official Charts Company, GfK, and more.
• RISM (Répertoire internationale des sources musicales) RISM's catalog is a finding aid for music manuscripts and prints; the online catalog includes Series A/1 and A/II (Music Manuscripts after 1600) and parts of B/1 as well as a list of library sigla. Other components can be found in print in the Orwig Music Library. more... less... http://www.rism.info/en/publications.html
• RIdIM: Répertoire International d'Iconograpie Musicale (International Repertoire of Musical Iconography) The RId'IM database contains descriptions of visual objects that depict music-making, musical instruments, and similar related objects. Where possible, there are links to online images of the artwork.
• Online Resources for Music Scholars (Harvard University) The electronic research guide from Harvard's Loeb Music Library, with many free resources covering musicology, music theory, composition, ethnomusicology, and more.
• MusRef (Brigham Young University) MusRef, a portal from the music library at Brigham Young University, includes an online bibliography of reference sources for music, both print and online, as well as guides for getting started with music reference sources. This site includes a huge collection of links to the vast world of freely available information about music on the web.
• Digital Resources for Musicology (DRM) A portal to open-access projects that may be of use to musicians and musicologists.
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• Last Updated: May 2, 2024 12:42 PM
• URL: https://libguides.brown.edu/music

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Library Intranet

Music 143: History of Rock: Getting Started

33 1/3 series.

The 33 1/3 book series is one of the best sources for album reviews.  You can search the full list of titles here .   

Selected books in the series:

Album Reviews

You can search CDs and vinyl records on the Music Library homepage .  Click the "recordings only" button to limit search to CDs and records.

Many CDs have liner notes with information and musical analysis.

You can search album reviews on these websites:

• NME: New Musical Express Full text from 2017 also through Nexis Uni https://find.library.duke.edu/catalog/DUKE004405519
• Pitchfork Album reviews
• Rolling Stone Album Reviews
• NPR Music Reviews Reviews and news from National Public Radio
• Dusted Album reviews

Best Rock Magazine Archives

Find full-text magazine articles on bands/artists from the 1960s to the early 2000s using these archival databases:

• Rock's Backpages This link opens in a new window Articles from major rock music magazines published in the USA and the UK since the early 1960s. Best way to search is drop-down list by artist/band name.
• Entertainment Industry Magazine Archive This link opens in a new window Major periodicals revealing the history of film, broadcasting, popular music, theatre, and video gaming, from the 19th century to the 21st.

Primary Source Databases

• Popular Culture in Britain and America, 1950-1975 This link opens in a new window Search for primary source documents about popular culture in the U.S. and U.K. from 1950 to 1975. Topics include student protests, civil rights, consumerism, and the Vietnam War
• The Sixties: Primary Documents and Personal Narratives 1960-1974 This link opens in a new window Search for primary sources texts, footage and documentaries that explore events from the sixties and early seventies.

Links to Books in the Catalog

You can search for books in the Duke Libraries Catalog .  It's often best to search band names using quotation marks, such as "Red Hot Chili Peppers" which searches these words in order as a single phrase.

You can browse books using some of the following links:

• Rock Music -- History and Criticism
• Rock Music -- Social Aspects
• Rock Musicians
• Rhythm and Blues Music
• Punk Rock Music
• Alternative Rock Music
• Country Music
• Electronic Dance Music
• Glam Rock Music
• Progressive Rock Music
• Psychedelic Rock Music

Finding Scholarly Articles

These are some of the best resources for finding scholarly articles on rock music:

• RILM Abstracts of Music Literature with Full Text This link opens in a new window Find scholarly articles on music topics.
• Music Periodicals Database This link opens in a new window Find journal and magazine articles on music.
• JSTOR This link opens in a new window Search a collection of important scholarly journals representing a range of disciplines.
• Project MUSE This link opens in a new window Search for journal articles in the humanities and social sciences published by university presses, including the Duke University Press
• Google Scholar This link opens in a new window Search for scholarly literature from a range of disciplines.

Newspapers and Magazines

For very recent bands/artists, current newspapers and magazines are likely to be the best sources for information.  Some newspaper databases focus only on current content, and others include older issues; coverage is indicated below.

• Rolling Stone Major news source for rock criticism, 1990-present.
• Nexis Uni This link opens in a new window The best source for finding articles in newspapers and blogs around the world. Coverage starting in the 1990s.
• ProQuest Recent Newspapers: The New York Times This link opens in a new window Search issues of the NYT from 2008-2022
• ProQuest Historical Newspapers: The New York Times This link opens in a new window Search for news articles from the New York Times from 1851-2019
• ProQuest Historical Newspapers: The Guardian and The Observer This link opens in a new window Coverage: 1791-2003.
• Times Digital Archive This link opens in a new window Search for articles from the Times of London from 1785 to 2010
• Wall Street Journal This link opens in a new window Coverage is 1984 to present
• Ethnic NewsWatch This link opens in a new window Search for articles in ethnic and minority newspapers, journals and magazines from 1959 to present
• GenderWatch This link opens in a new window Search for articles in women and gender studies newspapers, journals and magazines from 1970 to present

Reference Sources

• Oxford Bibliographies: Music This link opens in a new window Search peer-reviewed annotated bibliographies in music to help you find articles and books on your topics. Includes some rock music sources, for example the Beatles, Rap, and Hip-Hop.

Dissertations

Dissertations can be surprisingly good sources for rock music research, since they are scholarly, can be very focused on particular bands/artists, and often shed new light on a topic.

• ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global This link opens in a new window
• EThOS British Dissertations British dissertations, good source for UK rock music studies.

Music Librarian

• Last Updated: Mar 21, 2024 3:30 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.duke.edu/History_of_Rock

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216 Awesome Music Topics That Will Inspire Your Thesis

On this page, you will find the ultimate list of 216 brand new, 100% original music topics for high school, college and university students. No, it’s not a trick! You can use any of our topics about music for free and you don’t even have to give us credit. Many of these research topics on music should work great in 2023.

In addition, we have the best step by step guide to writing a research paper right here on this page. Just like the topics, you can read the guide for free. It will help you stay focused on what’s important and ensure you don’t miss any steps. And remember, if you need assistance with your academic writing tasks, our native English-speaking writers are the most reliable on the Internet!

Writing A Research Paper About Music

So, what is music? Music is a form of art that uses sound and rhythm to create an emotional or aesthetic experience. It can be created by combining different elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm and timbre. Music is a universal language that can be found in all cultures and has been an important part of human history for thousands of years. It can evoke emotions, tell stories, and communicate ideas. Music can take many forms, including vocal or instrumental, solo or ensemble, live or recorded, and can be classified into various genres such as rock, pop, classical, jazz, and many more.

But how do you write a research paper about music quickly? Well, we have a great step by step guide for you right here.

Choose a music topic. Select a topic that interests you and that you have enough background knowledge on to research and write about. Conduct research. Use a variety of sources to gather information on your topic, including books, academic journals, online databases, and primary sources such as interviews or musical recordings. Organize your research. Once you have gathered enough information, organize your research into an outline or a mind map to help you visualize how your paper will flow. Write a thesis statement. Your thesis statement should be a concise statement that summarizes the main argument of your paper. Write a rough draft. Begin writing your paper using the information you have gathered and the outline or mind map you created. Focus on creating a clear and coherent argument, and be sure to cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Help with coursework services can aid you in succeeding with this part. Revise and edit. Once you have completed a rough draft, revise and edit your paper to improve its clarity, organization, and coherence. Check for grammar and spelling errors, and make sure all citations are correct and properly formatted. Create a bibliography or works cited page. Include a list of all sources you used in your research, including books, articles, interviews, and recordings. Finalize your paper. After making all necessary revisions and edits, finalize your paper and ensure that it meets all the requirements set by your instructor or professor. Proofread everything and make sure it’s perfectly written. You don’t want to lose points over some typos, do you?

Easy Research Topics About Music

• The history and evolution of hip-hop culture
• The impact of classical music on modern composers
• The role of music in therapy for mental health
• The cultural significance of jazz in African-American communities
• The influence of traditional folk music on contemporary artists
• The development of electronic music over the past decade
• The use of music in film to enhance storytelling
• The rise of K-pop and its global popularity
• The effects of music on our learning abilities
• The use of music in branding in the fashion industry
• The influence of the Beatles on popular music
• The intersection of music and politics in the 1960s
• The cultural significance of reggae music in Jamaica
• The history and evolution of country music in America
• The impact of music streaming on the music industry

Opinion Essay Music Topics

• Music piracy: Should it be considered a serious crime?
• Should music education be mandatory in schools?
• Is autotune ruining the quality of music?
• Are music awards shows still relevant in today’s industry?
• Should music lyrics be censored for explicit content?
• Is it fair that some musicians earn more money than others?
• Is classical music still relevant in modern society?
• Should music festivals have age restrictions for attendees?
• Is it fair for musicians to be judged on their personal lives?
• Is the current state of the music industry sustainable?
• Should musicians be held accountable for the messages in their lyrics?
• Is the role of the record label still important in the age of digital music?
• Should musicians be able to express their political views in their music?
• Does the use of music in movies and TV shows enhance or detract from the storytelling?

Interesting Music Research Topics

• The impact of music on athletic performance
• The use of music in advertising and consumer behavior
• The role of music in enhancing cognitive abilities
• The effects of music on stress reduction and relaxation
• The cultural significance of music in indigenous communities
• The influence of music on fashion and style trends
• The evolution of protest music and its impact on society
• The effects of music on Alzheimer’s disease
• The intersection of music and technology in the music industry
• The effects of music on emotional intelligence and empathy
• The cultural significance of hip hop music in the African diaspora
• The influence of music on human behavior and decision-making
• The effects of music on physical performance and exercise
• The role of music in promoting social and political activism

Research Paper Topics On Music

• The effects of music on the brain and mental health
• The impact of streaming on the music industry
• The history and evolution of rap music
• The cultural significance of traditional folk music
• The use of music in video games to enhance the gaming experience
• The role of music in religious and spiritual practices
• The effects of music on memory and learning
• The development of rock and roll in America
• The intersection of music and politics in the 21st century
• The cultural significance of country music in the South
• The use of music in autism therapy
• The impact of social media on music promotion and marketing
• The influence of music on the LGBTQ+ community
• The effects of music on social behavior and interaction

Argumentative Essay Topics About Music

• Does music have a negative effect on behavior?
• Is streaming music harming the music industry?
• Can music censorship be justified in certain cases?
• Is cultural appropriation a problem in the music industry?
• Should musicians be held accountable for controversial lyrics?
• Is autotune a helpful tool or a crutch for musicians?
• Should music education be a required part of the curriculum?
• Is the use of explicit lyrics in music harmful?
• Should music festivals be required to have safety measures?
• Does the use of profanity in music undermine its artistic value?
• Can music be used to promote political messages effectively?
• Should musicians be allowed to profit from tragedies?

Current Music Topics To Write About In 2023

• The rise of TikTok and its impact on music promotion
• The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK music
• The use of virtual concerts and live streaming during COVID-19
• The influence of social media on music consumption and trends
• The emergence of new genres and sub-genres in popular music
• Talk about cancel culture in music
• The debate over the use of explicit lyrics in music
• The impact of climate change on music festivals and events
• The use of artificial intelligence in music production and composition
• The influence of music on political and social movements
• The rise of female and non-binary artists in the music industry
• The effects of globalization on the diversity of music around the world
• The role of nostalgia in the popularity of music from past decades

Musical Topics About Famous Musicians

• The life and legacy of Beethoven
• The impact of Elvis Presley on rock and roll
• The career and contributions of Bob Dylan
• The influence of Michael Jackson on pop music
• The musical evolution of Madonna over time
• The enduring appeal of the Rolling Stones
• The career of Prince and his impact on music
• The contributions of David Bowie to pop culture
• The iconic sound of Jimi Hendrix’s guitar
• The impact of Whitney Houston on the music industry
• The life and career of Freddie Mercury of Queen
• The artistry and impact of Joni Mitchell
• The groundbreaking work of Stevie Wonder in R&B
• The musical legacy of the Beatles and their influence on pop music

Music Research Paper Topics For College

• The cultural significance of the accordion in folk music
• The use of sampling in hip-hop and electronic music production
• The evolution of the drum kit in popular music
• The significance of Taylor Swift in contemporary country-pop music
• The effects of drug abuse in the music industry
• The role of music in shaping political movements and protests
• The impact of streaming services on the music industry and artists’ income
• The significance of the Burning Man festival in music and culture
• The emergence and growth of Afrobeat music globally
• The role of musical collaboration in the creation of new music genres
• The use of autotune and other vocal processing tools in pop music
• The effects of social and political issues on rap music lyrics
• The significance of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in pop culture
• The impact of music on emotional regulation and mental health

Our Controversial Music Topics

• The controversy of the “cancel culture” in US music
• The impact of music piracy on the industry and artists
• The ethical concerns of music sampling without permission
• The controversy surrounding lip-syncing during live performances
• The debate over the authenticity of auto-tune in music
• The controversy surrounding the use of profanity in music
• The debate over the cultural appropriation of music styles
• The controversy surrounding music festivals and their impact on local communities
• The debate over the role of music in promoting violence and aggression
• The controversy surrounding the ownership of an artist’s discography
• The ethical concerns of musicians profiting from songs about tragedies and disasters

Captivating Music Thesis Topics

• The role of music in promoting social justice
• The impact of music streaming on album sales
• The significance of lyrics in contemporary pop music
• The evolution of heavy metal music over time
• The influence of gospel music on rock and roll
• The effects of music education on cognitive development
• The cultural significance of hip-hop music in America
• The role of music in promoting environmental awareness and activism
• The impact of music festivals on local economies
• The evolution of country music and its impact on popular music
• The use of music in advertising and marketing strategies

Classical Music Topic Ideas

• The influence of Baroque music on classical music
• The history and evolution of the symphony orchestra
• The career and legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
• The significance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
• The evolution of opera as an art form
• The role of women composers in classical music history
• The impact of the Romantic era on classical music
• The use of program music to tell a story through music
• The significance of the concerto in classical music
• The influence of Johann Sebastian Bach on classical music
• The contributions of Antonio Vivaldi to the concerto form
• The use of counterpoint in classical music composition
• The role of chamber music in classical music history
• The significance of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah in classical music

Interesting Music Topics For High School

• The history and evolution of the piano as a musical instrument
• The significance of Beethoven in classical music
• The impact of Elvis Presley on US music
• The emergence and growth of the hip-hop music genre
• The role of music festivals in contemporary music culture
• The effects of technology on music production and performance
• The influence of social media on music promotion and distribution
• The effects of music on mental health and well-being
• The role of music in popular culture and media
• The impact of musical soundtracks on movies and TV shows
• The use of music therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder
• The significance of the Coachella Music Festival in modern music culture
• The cultural significance of the ukulele in Hawaiian culture

Awesome Music Research Questions For 2023

• Should musicians be required to use their platform to promote social justice causes?
• Is music piracy a victimless crime or does it harm the industry?
• Should music venues be required to provide safe spaces for concertgoers?
• Is the Grammy Awards selection process biased towards mainstream artists?
• Should music streaming services pay musicians higher royalties?
• Is it appropriate for music to be used in political campaign advertisements?
• Should music journalists be required to disclose their personal biases in reviews?
• Is it ethical for musicians to profit from songs about tragedies and disasters?
• Should music education be funded equally across all schools and districts?
• Is it fair for record labels to own the rights to an artist’s entire discography?
• Should music festivals have more diverse and inclusive lineups?
• Should musicians be allowed to use drugs and alcohol as part of their creative process?

Fantastic Music Topics For Research

• The evolution of the electric guitar in rock music
• The cultural significance of the sitar in Indian music
• The impact of synthesizers on contemporary music production
• The use of technology in the creation and performance of music
• The influence of Beyoncé on modern pop music
• The significance of Kendrick Lamar in contemporary rap music
• The effects of misogyny and sexism in the rap music industry
• The emergence and growth of K-pop music globally
• The significance of Coachella Music Festival in the music industry
• The history and evolution of the Woodstock Music Festival
• The impact of music festivals on tourism and local economies
• The role of music festivals in shaping music trends and culture
• The effects of music piracy on the music industry
• The impact of social media on the promotion and distribution of music
• The role of music in the Black Lives Matter movement

Catchy Music Related Research Topics

• Is hip-hop culture beneficial or harmful to society?
• Is it ethical to sample music without permission?
• Should music streaming services censor explicit content?
• Is auto-tune a valid musical technique or a crutch?
• Does the music industry unfairly exploit young artists?
• Should radio stations be required to play a certain percentage of local music?
• Is the practice of lip-syncing during live performances acceptable?
• Is music education undervalued and underfunded in schools?
• Does the use of profanity in music contribute to a decline in society?
• Should music venues be held accountable for the safety of concertgoers?

Informative Speech Topics About Music

• The history and evolution of jazz music
• The cultural significance of classical music in Europe
• The origins and development of blues music in America
• The influence of Latin American music on American popular music
• The impact of technology on music production and distribution
• The role of music in expressing emotions and feelings
• The effects of music therapy on mental health and wellbeing
• The cultural significance of traditional music in Africa
• The use of music in films and television to create mood and atmosphere
• The influence of the Beatles on popular music and culture
• The evolution of electronic dance music (EDM)
• The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and unity
• The impact of social media on the music industry and fan culture

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Psychosocial risks and benefits of exposure to heavy metal music with aggressive themes: Current theory and evidence

• Open access
• Published: 25 May 2022
• Volume 42 , pages 21133–21150, ( 2023 )

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• Kirk N. Olsen 1 , 2 ,
• Josephine Terry 1 &
• William Forde Thompson 1 , 2 , 3  

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A Correction to this article was published on 11 June 2022

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Concerns have been raised that prolonged exposure to heavy metal music with aggressive themes can increase the risk of aggression, anger, antisocial behaviour, substance use, suicidal ideation, anxiety and depression in community and psychiatric populations. Although research often relies on correlational evidence for which causal inferences are not possible, it is often claimed that music with aggressive themes can cause psychological and behavioural problems. This narrative review of theory and evidence suggests the issues are more complicated, and that fans typically derive a range of emotional and social benefits from listening to heavy metal music, including improved mood, identity formation, and peer affiliation. In contrast, non-fans of heavy metal music — who are often used as participants in experimental research on this topic — invariably report negative psychological experiences. Our review considers a comprehensive set of empirical findings that inform clinical strategies designed to identify fans for whom heavy metal music may confer psychological and behavioural risks, and those for whom this music may confer psychosocial benefits.

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Music plays an important role across all stages of human development (Thompson and Olsen, 2021 ). Mental health practitioners (e.g., music therapists, psychologists) and researchers recognise that music listening preferences and behaviours are important to social and emotional wellbeing for adolescents and young adults (F. Baker & Bor, 2008 ; McFerran, 2016 ; McFerran et al., 2016) and can support neurological functions (Brancatisano et al., 2020 ). A body of research spanning more than 30 years has aimed to elucidate the nature of these relationships. However, with the emergence of music genres that contain aggressive lyrical themes such as rap and heavy metal music, researchers have considered the possibility that some forms of music engagement may have negative consequences (e.g., St. Lawrence & Joyner, 1991 ; Warburton, 2012 ). Such genres often explore aggressive and violent antisocial themes, leading to media reports of moral panic by community groups, parents, and politicians (Walser, 2013 ). At the heart of such concerns is the possibility that music with aggressive themes might negatively impact upon the behaviour and mental health of adolescents and young adults.

Heavy metal music with aggressive themes has been identified as a potential risk factor for externalising behaviours (characterised by aggression and antisocial behaviour), internalising behaviours (characterised by depression and anxiety), and unhealthy behaviours such as substance use and self-harm (Bodner & Bensimon, 2015 ; McFerran et al., 2016 ; Miranda, 2013 ). Such concerns are also evident within other domains of media violence, such as violent video games (e.g., APA, 2015 ; Anderson et al., 2010 ; Greitemeyer and Mügge, 2014 ). However, despite numerous claims that engagement with violent media can lead to negative outcomes, meta-analyses (and especially those focused on preregistered studies) suggest that such risks are modest at best (e.g., Drummond et al., 2020 ; Ferguson, 2015 ; Ferguson et al., 2020 ; Hilgard et al., 2019 ; Przybylski & Weinstein, 2019 ).

There is also limited evidence to justify serious concerns about the negative impact of prolonged exposure to heavy metal, yet such concerns persist and have influenced social attitudes and policy decision-making at political and institutional levels. In some cases, there have been calls for certain music groups to be banned entirely (for discussions of music censorship, see Chastagner, 1999 ; Cooper, 2011 ; Hines & McFerran, 2014 ; Peters, 2019 ; Savage, 2018 ; Wright, 2000 ; for the perspectives of fans, see Hines & McFerran, 2014 ). Despite these public concerns, many adolescents and young adults report that music enhances their social and emotional wellbeing, including music with aggressive themes (McFerran & Saarikallio, 2014 ; McFerran et al., 2015 ; North et al., 2000 ; Olsen & Thompson, 2021 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ). The need for increased understanding of how listeners use music in their daily lives is particularly important, as music-use can have both detrimental and enhancing effects on wellbeing and mental health (Loxton et al., 2016 ; Lozon & Bensimon, 2014 ; McFerran et al., 2016 ; Miranda, 2013 ; Olsen et al., 2022 ). The present narrative literature review evaluates and synthesises existing research findings on the risks and benefits of engaging with heavy metal music with aggressive themes. The review is grounded within the field of music psychology and aims to ensure that clinical decision-making (e.g., discouraging or encouraging listening) is informed by empirical evidence.

Defining Heavy Metal Music

Heavy metal developed as a genre in the late 1960s and 1970s, with bands including Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin fundamental to its emergence (Walser, 2013 ). Heavy metal music, and later offshoots such as thrash metal, grindcore, and death metal, is often characterised by energetic high intensity sounds, distorted electric guitars and bass, screamed or growled vocals and powerful drums (Brown et al., 2016 ; Olsen et al., 2018 ; Walser, 2013 ). It has been observed that many sounds featured in this music are acoustically similar to biological threat signals such as screams, growls, and other attributes observed in animal calls designed to communicate fear and aggression, including looming or high intensity sounds, high event density, extreme spectral centroids (low or high), and non-linearities (for relevant discussions, see Blumstein et al., 2010 ; Huron, 2015 ; Ma & Thompson, 2015; Ollivier, et al., 2019 ; Schäfer et al., 2015 ). In extreme subgenres of heavy metal such as death metal and black metal, lyrical themes often focus on violence, death, suicide, alienation, fear, misogyny, dystopian futures, the occult, mysticism and the supernatural.

Not all heavy metal music features aggressive or violent lyrics. Indeed, many heavy metal songs address pro-social issues of politics, religion, the environment, global inequality and imbalances of power (Brown et al., 2016 ; Walser, 2013 ). The diversity of themes in heavy metal makes it impossible to generalise findings from specific songs to the entire genre. With this in mind, our review critically evaluates investigations of the psychosocial outcomes of engaging with heavy metal music, but with specific focus on the impact of heavy metal music that features explicitly aggressive themes.

The potential for heavy metal music to influence mental health and problem-behaviours is taken seriously by policy makers, mental health professionals and researchers (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ). Correlational links between heavy metal music and suicide have driven policy decisions, and some mental health and correctional institutions have restricted access to such music (see Hines & McFerran, 2014 ; Rosenbaum & Prinsky, 1991 for discussions). Acts of violence within the heavy metal community (e.g., assault, rape, murder) have also shaped attitudes towards this music (e.g., see Phillipov, 2011 , for a discussion about violence within the Norwegian Black Metal community). Such policy responses and concerns may be misguided, however, given that causation cannot be inferred from correlational evidence. Yet negative attitudes towards heavy metal music persist and have even been shown to influence diagnostic decisions about hypothetical patients who listen to this music. Rosenbaum and Prinsky ( 1991 ) reported that 83% of representatives from mental health facilities recommended a young male be hospitalised based on a vignette describing him as an affiliate of heavy metal music culture with an unconventional appearance, despite assurances that he did not consume alcohol or drugs, was not suicidal, depressed or violent, and showed no neglect of schoolwork. Negative attitudes towards heavy metal music have implications for the treatment of fans in social, institutional, and mental health settings, so it is imperative that empirical evidence informs clinical practice. Before our review of the empirical evidence is presented, relevant theoretical models will first be discussed.

Theoretical Perspectives

Several theoretical models are relevant to research on the impact of engaging with aggressive or violent media, with some emphasizing neurological and psychosocial benefits, and others focused on risks. Theoretical models of motivation such as Self Determination Theory (SDT; Przybylski et al, 2010 ) and Mood Management Theory (MMT; Zillman, 1988 ) provide insight into the mechanisms underlying responses to violent media. Applied to music engagement, SDT and MMT both contend that consumers actively select and respond to music to satisfy psychological needs and motivational goals. These goals include adaptive outcomes such as managing one’s moods (MMT) and feelings of pleasure (hedonic concerns), along with deeper (eudaimonic) levels of processing that include grappling with questions such as self-actualization, self-efficacy, and life's purpose (SDT) (Oliver & Raney, 2011 ). For these models, the psychological impact of media is not passively predetermined by the mere presence of aggressive content; instead, an active decision to engage with certain media must be understood as an adaptation to individual circumstances that can provide a pathway to psychological health and wellbeing (Kneer, 2016 ; Warburton & Braunstein, 2012 ). The theories also explain why fans of heavy metal music with aggressive themes rarely experience anger or display aggression towards others after listening to this music, but instead often report positive experiences of empowerment, joy, peacefulness, wonder, and social connectedness (e.g., Thompson et al., 2019 ; Olsen et al., 2022 ; see also, Thompson & Olsen, 2018 ). Conversely, when non-fans are required to listen to music they dislike, the experience is unlikely to satisfy their psychological needs and motivational goals.

Models of the therapeutic potential of music, such as the  Therapeutic Music Capacities Model  (TMCM; Brancatisano et al., 2020 ), explain how music engagement can yield positive outcomes that may be exploited in music-based therapies. The TMCM identifies numerous design features of music that trigger key processes relevant to mental and physical health, including those associated with attention, movement, emotion, sense of self, timing, and social connection. Models that focus on music and the self (e.g., Baird & Thompson, 2018 ; Thompson, et al., in press ) or on the social benefits of music (Elvers, 2016 ; Schäfer & Eerola, 2020) further clarify why fans experience benefits when listening to their preferred music, whereas non-fans experience no such benefits when listening to the same music. When non-fans are obliged to listen to music they did not choose and do not like, it may conflict with their sense of identity and fail to convey a sense of community, resulting in unpleasant emotional responses such as tension, anger and fear (Olsen et al., 2022 ).

Models of aggression can also help to identify conditions under which negative consequences of music engagement might occur, and hence can inform strategies for minimizing negative outcomes. However, such models are less informative about the positive psychosocial outcomes that have been observed for fans of violently-themed music. Anderson and Bushman’s ( 2002 , 2018 ) General Aggression Model (GAM) was developed to explain the relationship between exposure to an aggressive-related stimulus (such as media violence) and subsequent aggressive behaviour (see also, Barlett & Anderson, 2013 ). The model proposes that individual variables (e.g., genetic predisposition, prior learning, beliefs, attitudes, gender, mood, trait aggression) and situational variables (e.g., violent media exposure) combine to influence an individual’s internal state (physiological arousal, affect, cognition) and behaviour (Anderson & Bushman, 2002 ; Barlett & Anderson, 2013 ; Greitemeyer, 2009 ). The GAM has been used as a framework to explain how exposure to music with violent themes might lead to increased aggression (e.g., Anderson et al., 2003 ; Brummert-Lennings & Warburton, 2011 ; Fischer & Greitemeyer, 2006 ; Mast & McAndrew, 2011 ). However, the model’s assumptions and validity have been questioned, and it provides little detail on the complex interactions between environmental factors and genetic, neurobiological, neuroendocrine, and other biological underpinnings of aggressive behaviour (Devilly et al., 2021 ; Ferguson & Dyck, 2012 ). More critically, because the GAM is exclusively focused on aggressive outcomes, it is not equipped to account for the way individuals actively engage with music to confer a range of beneficial or otherwise non-aggressive outcomes. Unlike non-fans, fans actively seek out their favourite music to fulfil psychosocial goals, and they typically report positive experiences from this music engagement (Thompson et al., 2019 ). Aggression may also occur following exposure to music with aggressive themes, but the evidence reviewed here suggests that such an outcome is rare.

Methodological Approach

The narrative literature review drew upon protocols for search strategies outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P; Moher et al., 2015 ; Shamseer et al., 2015 ). PsycINFO, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were used to identify research investigating the associations between heavy metal music listening and externalising, internalising and unhealthy behaviours including aggression, anger, substance use, anxiety, depression and suicide. Inclusion criteria also incorporated individual factors such as personality, gender Footnote 1 and emotion regulation styles that potentially moderate the relationships between heavy metal music and wellbeing. Finally, the review considered evidence of the ways in which young people use music to improve their wellbeing, and how heavy metal fans may benefit from listening to their preferred genre.

Literature searches in all databases identified relevant articles by scanning titles, abstracts and keywords. For example, one search strategy in SCOPUS that was limited to peer-reviewed articles is as follows: TITLE-ABS-KEY ("heavy metal music") AND ("aggression" OR "anger" OR "antisocial" OR "substance use" OR "drugs" OR "anxiety" OR "depression" OR "suicide" OR "personality" OR "gender" OR "sex" OR "emotion regulation" OR "wellbeing" OR "well-being") AND (LIMIT-TO (DOCTYPE, "ar")). Publication year was not restricted and included articles available up until August, 2021. Once search strategies were implemented, we assessed titles and abstracts to gauge suitability to the overarching research synthesis aim and excluded articles that did not meet the criteria. In addition to articles deemed relevant from such search strategies, we also assessed relevant articles from reference lists of published work and authors’ personal reference databases. In total, 101 empirical studies were incorporated into the narrative literature review.

Anger and Aggression: From Affect to Cognition and Behaviour

The lyrical themes of heavy metal music sometimes depict acts of aggression, violence and misogyny, so researchers have investigated whether exposure to such music might lead to increases in anger, aggressive cognitions, and aggressive/antisocial behaviours. Anger and aggression are distinct outcomes. Anger is a feeling or emotion, whereas aggression refers to a behaviour or action that is hostile or violent, such as physical assault, verbal threats, or self-harm. Violent media may sometimes induce anger without inducing behaviour that is aggressive.

The relationship between listening to heavy metal music and levels of anger is likely influenced by (1) music listening preferences, that is, if the listener is a fan or non-fan of the music, and (2) stereotypes/implicit biases. Labbé et al. ( 2007 ) administered a stress-induction procedure to participants who then listened to self-selected music, classical music, heavy metal music, or sat in silence. Listening to self-selected or classical music resulted in increased relaxation, whereas listening to heavy metal music resulted in increased anger with no benefit to relaxation. Without knowing listeners’ musical inclinations or their level of enjoyment while listening to the music, it is unclear whether these outcomes occurred because heavy metal music is inherently harmful, or because most participants in the study did not like these music selections.

Negative sterotypes are also likely to influence anger experienced after listening to music. For instance, a cohort of primarily Caucasian students reported lower levels of anger after listening to experimenter-selected heavy metal music than after listening to rap music (Ballard & Coates, 1995 ). The authors surmised that listeners may have been more familiar with rock music more generally, and that higher ratings of anger following rap music might reflect an implicit bias against the predominantly African American rap culture of the time. This interpretation suggests that the elicitation of stereotypes associated with any music genre can sometimes account for affective experiences during music listening (Susino & Schubert, 2019a , 2019b ). Negative stereotypes may also account for higher levels of anger after listening to heavy metal music than after listening to other genres, given that non-fans may hold negative attitudes about this genre.

When recruiting fans of heavy metal music, researchers have not observed a consistent relationship between listening and increased anger. In one of the earliest qualitative studies of young male listeners of heavy metal music aged 14–20 years (Arnett, 1991a ), two-thirds who reported listening to their preferred music when feeling angry indicated that the music helped them release anger and feel calmer. Only 6% of fans self-reported that listening to heavy metal music increased their anger and aggressive behaviours. Other research suggests that young- and older-adult heavy metal fans report similar levels of trait anger to fans of other genres (i.e., alternative, adult contemporary, dance/soul, country, rap) (Rubin et al., 2001 ; Shafron & Karno, 2013 ). Furthermore, heavy metal fans do not report experiencing more state negative affect (e.g., anger, sadness, stress) than non-fans after listening to their preferred genres (McFerran et al., 2015 ).

The importance of considering fan-status is further highlighted in a study by Gowensmith and Bloom ( 1997 ), who found that when heavy metal and country music fans listened to their preferred genre, self-reported levels of anger did not differ from one another. However, fans who listened to their non-preferred genre reported higher levels of anger than those who listened to their preferred genre. Given that heavy metal fans are the cohort most likely to self-select music from this genre, research on this group of listeners is most relevant to any assessment of the risks and benefits of this music. Sharman and Dingle ( 2015 ) recruited fans of extreme metal music to examine the effects of listening to self-selected music on affect and physiological arousal (e.g., heart rate). After an anger induction, fans reported increased hostility, irritability and stress, but following a subsequent period of music listening or silence, these states decreased. Fans who listened to music (versus silence) following the anger induction reported increased positive affect (e.g., feelings of being active and inspired). Given the experimental design, however, it is difficult to disentangle the relative contributions of music listening in general, listening to familiar and preferred music, and listening to heavy metal music specifically. However, the findings confirm that listening to metal music does not make angry fans angrier, which is consistent with qualitative reports from fans (Saarikallio, 2011 ; Saarikallio & Erkkilä, 2007 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ).

Aggressive Cognitions

Research has also explored the relationship between listening to heavy metal music with violent lyrics on aggressive cognitions. For instance, exposure to misogynistic and misandrist lyrics (vs. neutral lyrics) across a range of genres including heavy metal resulted in an increase in aggressive cognitions towards the opposite sex (Fischer & Greitemeyer, 2006 ). Furthermore, a group of undergraduate participants who were not screened for fandom reported increased state hostility and greater access to aggressive thoughts after listening to a heavy metal song with violent lyrics, compared to participants who listened to a heavy metal song with non-violent lyrics (Anderson et al., 2003 ). A powerful feature of this investigation is that it controlled music genre, used multiple exemplars of violent and nonviolent songs across multiple experiments, and examined the moderating effects of trait hostility. 

Anderson et al. ( 2003 ) measured participants’ access to aggressive thoughts by using linguistic tasks such as participant ratings of similarity between aggressive and ambiguous word pairs (Exp 2), reading response times when presented with aggressive or non-aggressive words (Exp 3), and a commonly used word completion task (Exps 4–5). Word completion tasks, for example, require participants to ‘fill in the blank’ for words that could be completed to yield either an aggressive or neutral word (e.g., explode vs explore). A higher frequency of aggressive word completions after exposure to violent media suggests increased access to aggressive thoughts caused by the preceding stimulus. Although such priming effects are predictable, it is difficult to generalize these measures to the incidence of aggressive cognitions by music listeners outside of laboratory conditions. Indeed, in the renowned legal case of Brown versus Entertainment Merchants Association ( 2011 ), the Supreme Court (USA) concluded that measures of aggressive cognitions in laboratory settings are unlikely to reflect real-world aggressive cognitions that predict aggressive behaviour, such as planning to enact harm towards others (Ferguson, 2013 ).

It also remains to be determined whether increased state hostility and aggressive cognitions would occur (even in laboratory conditions) for participants who regularly and enthusiastically listen to music with violent lyrical themes (i.e., fans of music with violent themes), or whether such findings were driven by participants who find the presence of violent lyrics aversive to begin with. Indeed, research suggests that when non-fans listen to heavy metal sub-genres with extremely violent themes (e.g., death metal), they experience negative outcomes, whereas fans listening to that same music experience positive outcomes (Thompson et al., 2019 ), especially in cases where fans’ passion for death metal is harmoniously intertwined into their day-to-day lives (Olsen et al, 2022 ).

Aggressive and Antisocial Behaviour

Although fans of heavy metal do not always report greater feelings of anger than fans of other genres of music, their propensity to act aggressively may still be elevated. Rubin et al. ( 2001 ) found that heavy metal fans reported more aggression and disregard for women than fans of other genres (except for rap music), even when self-esteem and anger were controlled. Studies of adolescents aged 12–16 years also showed a trend towards increased aggressive behaviour in fans of rock music including heavy metal than in fans of other genres (e.g., pop, dance, hip-hop, jazz, classical) (Mulder et al., 2007 ; ter Bogt et al., 2013 ). Collapsing genres (e.g., heavy metal, punk) into a broad “rock” category may have obscured differences between fans of those genres. Nonetheless, the self-report data warrant corroboration using experimental methods that evaluate causal links between heavy metal music listening and acts of aggression.

Bodner and Bensimon ( 2015 ) reported higher levels of delinquency among adult fans of so-called ‘problem music’ (i.e., heavy metal, alternative rock, hip-hop, rap, punk, house and trance) than fans of ‘non-problem music’ (i.e., other genres). Similarly, Schwartz and Fouts ( 2003 ) reported that adolescent listeners of ‘heavy’ music (defined as tough, wild, loud, protesting, violent, fast and guitar-based) were more tough-minded and assertive in their relationships, less concerned about the feelings and reactions of others, and were less confident in their ability to succeed academically than listeners of ‘light’ music (i.e., quiet, romantic, sad, peaceful, tender, good-natured and serious). In addition, listeners of heavy music were more pessimistic, moody, sensitive and dissatisfied, and had greater difficulties in their family relationships compared to listeners of both light and ‘eclectic’ music (i.e., both heavy and light). They were also more likely to be impulsive, to disrespect individuals and societal norms, to disregard others’ rights and to be concerned about peer acceptance. Examining heavy metal fans specifically, Took and Weiss ( 1994 ) found that fans had poorer school grades and more school-based problems than non-fans. These studies suggest a relationship between music listening preferences and problematic behaviours. However, the nature of these relationships remains unclear, with little known about whether music listening has a direct or indirect effect on behaviour (i.e., via mediating variables), or whether predisposing factors (e.g., poor family relationships) drive listeners towards particular genres.

In an effort to explore the emerging relationship between music and externalising behaviours such as aggression and delinquency over time, Selfhout et al. ( 2008 ) collected self-report data from adolescents aged 11–18 years at two intervals, twelve months apart. Adolescent males with a preference for heavy metal music exhibited more externalising behaviours at the second measurement time-point relative to the first time-point, whereas preferences for heavy metal did not predict externalising behaviours reported at the first time-point. The authors adopted a psychosocial model to argue that the lyrical content of these genres activates antisocial schemas that then promote externalising behaviours. They further argued that these behaviours are modelled by peer groups affiliated with these genres, and that adolescents adopt these behaviours to conform to group norms. In another longitudinal study, adolescents who listened to heavy metal music with aggressive themes demonstrated increases in aggressive behaviour and decreases in prosocial behaviour over a 12-month period when controlling for initial levels of these variables (Coyne & Padilla-Walker, 2015 ). Together, these studies provide evidence that listening to heavy metal music with aggressive themes plays a role in the development of subsequent externalising behaviours, perhaps through psychosocial mechanisms.

The studies reported thus far have relied on correlational designs, and therefore are unable to address the question of whether listening to heavy metal music with aggressive themes plays a causal role in increasing aggression and antisocial behaviours. However, there have been a number of studies that have examined the causal relationship between exposure to music with violent lyrics and aggressive behaviour. For instance, male participants who listened to heavy metal music with violent lyrics demonstrated increased aggressive behaviour in a ‘hot sauce’ paradigm (i.e., placing more hot sauce in a cup of water expected to be given to another student) than those who listened to heavy metal without violent lyrics or no music at all (Mast & McAndrew, 2011 ). This effect remains regardless of whether or not the music is accompanied by violent imagery (Brummert-Lennings & Warburton, 2011 ). While not exclusive to heavy metal music but also applicable to rock and rap music, sexually aggressive and misogynistic song lyrics, relative to neutral lyrics, have also been shown to increase men’s aggressive behaviours towards women using the ‘hot sauce’ paradigm (Fischer & Greitemeyer, 2006 ). These studies make an important contribution as they explore the role that lyrics play in eliciting aggressive behaviours, and they begin to highlight potential mechanisms through which music exposure increases aggression. However, as participants were not specifically screened for their liking of the musical genres, it is difficult to draw strong conclusions about whether exposure to heavy metal music as a genre elicits aggressive behaviours in listeners who consider themselves heavy metal fans.

In sum, correlational research suggests that aggression, delinquency, and disrespect toward societal norms and women are broadly associated with heavy metal music, although causal inferences are difficult to infer from such data. Aggressive behaviour has nevertheless been causally linked to heavy metal with aggressive themes when musical preferences are not controlled (i.e., separating the experience of fans versus non-fans) (Brummert-Lennings & Warburton, 2011 ; Mast & McAndrew, 2011 ). Thus, it is difficult to draw strong conclusions about the psychological risks of this music for those people who enjoy it. Ideally, such findings should be replicated for a sample of participants who explicitly self-identify as fans of this music. Indeed, fans of heavy metal music are not angrier than other fan-groups, and preference for intense music genres such as heavy metal does not contribute to the prediction of aggressive tendencies beyond factors such as age, gender, and psychiatric symptoms (Merz et al., 2021 ). It is possible that some fans of heavy metal may use this music to help regulate the anger they do experience (Arnett, 1991a ; Sharman & Dingle, 2015 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ; Thompson & Olsen, 2018) – a possibility that will be discussed later.

More generally, existing evidence of negative outcomes following engagement with heavy metal music should be interpreted cautiously given: (a) research on the topic is in its infancy; (b) existing research has rarely restricted observations to fans of the music; and (c) challenges of interpretation. These challenges include interpreting correlational data, identifying valid dependent measures, generalising beyond experimental settings, interpreting small effect sizes, the presence of publication bias, and p -hacking (Ferguson, 2013 , 2018 , 2020 ).

Anxiety and Depression

Internalising disorders characterised by anxiety and depression have also been the subject of research, and the findings are somewhat inconsistent. A survey of young adults in Australia revealed that heavy metal fans reported higher levels of overall psychological distress than non-fans, as measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, K10 (McFerran et al., 2015 ). After controlling for age and gender, adult heavy metal/hard rock fans have also reported higher levels of anxiety and depression than non-fans (Shafron & Karno, 2013 ). Liking of rock music more broadly (e.g., heavy metal, alternative, punk, hard rock and gothic) has also been associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and problem behaviour, more incidences of self-harm, and lower levels of positive emotion (Mulder et al., 2007 ; Stratton & Zalanowski, 1997 ; ter Bogt et al., 2017 ).

Conversely, there is some evidence that preferences for heavy metal music among college students are not associated with depression (Lester & Whipple, 1996 ). Indeed, fans report using this music to buffer against the fear of death and death-related thoughts (Kneer & Rieger, 2016 ). Recours et al. ( 2009 ) drew conclusions about the levels of anxiety and depression among a group of heavy metal fans aged 13–44 years based on cut-off scores indicating clinical levels of mental disorder. They concluded that the percentage of fans with scores above the cut-off for anxiety (15.58%) and depression (3.43%) were comparable or lower than rates evident in the general population. However, this conclusion was based on a descriptive comparison with no statistical inferences. Another study comparing 145 young-adult fans of heavy metal, rap, or classical music reported no significant differences in depressive symptoms between fan groups. However, the magnitude of depressive symptoms experienced in each fan group was a significant predictor of negative emotional responses to their preferred music (e.g., sadness, tension, anger, and fear) (Powell et al., 2021 ). There is also some evidence that at least among non-fans, listening to unfamiliar heavy metal (versus rap music) in a single exposure session does not lead to elevated levels of suicidal ideation or anxiety (Ballard & Coates, 1995 ). However, it is difficult to conceive that relatively brief exposure to an unfamiliar song is likely to drive any measurable changes, particularly in a non-clinical cohort.

Although there is some inconsistency within the literature, there is certainly evidence that heavy metal fans show a vulnerability to anxiety and depression (see F. Baker & Bor, 2008 for a further review) that extends across cultures (e.g., Ekinci et al., 2012 ). However, the mechanisms that underlie the relationship are unclear because the research relies on cross-sectional and self-report approaches (Hughes et al., 2018 ). While it is possible that listeners experiencing distress are drawn to genres that match and potentially validate their emotions (e.g. C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ; McFerran et al., 2015 ; Schwartz & Fouts, 2003 ; Stratton & Zalanowski, 1997 ), there is to date no experimental evidence that examines the long-term effects on fans of listening to heavy metal music.

Some sub-genres of heavy metal music such as depressive suicidal black metal contain overt descriptions of violence against the self, and perhaps not surprisingly have been characterised and investigated as risk-factors for suicide and self-harm (Coggins, 2019 ; Hughes et al., 2018 ; Martin et al., 1993). An early and politically influential study used an indirect approach to assess the relationship between heavy metal music listening and suicide. Stack et al. ( 1994 ) accessed subscription rates to Metal Edge magazine and correlated these with suicide rates across the United States. When controlling for possible confounds (e.g., marital status of parents, financial strain, migration status and race), rates of subscription to the heavy metal magazine across 50 states made a small but unique contribution to the prediction of suicide rates among 15 to 24-year-olds (but not 25 to 34-year-olds). Stack and colleagues argued that the aggressive themes in some heavy metal music may cultivate suicidal tendencies among at-risk adolescents. However, as magazine subscriptions acted as a proxy for heavy metal listening preferences, it is not clear whether similar results would have emerged using direct measures. Nonetheless, Stack ( 1998 ) adopted another indirect approach and analysed data taken from a large-scale social survey that obtained information about music preferences and levels of suicide acceptability, measured by rates of approval and disapproval of suicide. While there was a significant positive relationship between heavy metal fandom and acceptability of suicide, this relationship disappeared when church attendance was controlled. It was concluded that heavy metal fans have greater levels of suicide acceptability as a consequence of low religiosity.

Adopting a more direct approach, high school students who identified as fans of heavy metal reported more thoughts of suicide and provided fewer reasons for living when compared to non-fans (Scheel & Westefeld, 1999 ). Conversely, Lester and Whipple ( 1996 ) found that while college students’ preferences for heavy metal music were associated with past suicidal ideation, they were not associated with current suicidal ideation or past suicidal threats or attempts. Therefore, it may be that current suicidal ideation among fans is characteristic of a younger cohort. Despite this proposition, Lacourse et al. (2001) found no association between preferences for heavy metal music and suicidal behaviours in a cohort of high school students when controlling for common risk factors of suicide such as age, powerlessness, isolation, meaninglessness, and substance use. Furthermore, an online survey of over 900 adult participants revealed that suicidal ideation was not associated with liking of heavy metal music (Till et al., 2016 ). Similarly, a retrospective study of middle-aged adults who were heavy metal fans and/or musicians in the 1980s revealed that while heavy metal fans and musicians had experienced a greater number of aversive childhood experiences and used more alcohol in early adulthood than did age-matched non-fans, the groups did not differ in suicide attempt rates (Howe et al., 2015 ). In addition, heavy metal fans and musicians reported higher levels of happiness during their youth and lower levels of regret than the non-fan comparisons. They also reported lower rates of work absenteeism due to physical and mental health problems and underwent lower rates of psychological treatment. Of course, retrospective studies are vulnerable to biases driven by inaccurate recall and misreporting, and the findings may represent a cohort effect. However, they do highlight that the longer-term outlook for fans is not necessarily one of concern. Overall, there does not appear to be a consistent relationship between listening to heavy metal music and suicidal behaviour, but more research within both non-clinical and clinical populations is needed to determine whether mental health may act as a moderating factor (see C. Baker & Brown, 2016 for further discussion).

Substance Use

There is some evidence that heavy metal musicians consume alcohol more frequently than classical musicians (Butkovic & Dopudj, 2017 ), but the relationship between substance use and listening to heavy metal music is unclear. Some reports have indicated a positive association between substance use and liking of heavy metal music (Arnett, 1991b ; Lacourse et al., 2001 ), although this has been shown to be moderated by trait levels of sensation seeking (Arnett, 1991b ). Conversely, in studies of adolescents and university students, fans of genres such as punk/hardcore, techno/hardhouse, reggae and Turkish folk music were shown to have a stronger link to substance use than fans of heavy metal (Altun et al., 2018 ; Mulder et al., 2009 ). Such relationships are often moderated by perceived peer substance use (Mulder et al., 2009 , 2010 ).

In Australia, rates of illicit drug use have also been associated with genre preferences (Lim et al., 2008 ). A cross-sectional questionnaire of 939 young people 16 to 29 years-of-age attending a day-long music festival revealed that nearly half of all respondents had used an illicit drug within the previous month. Rates of drug use were highest among those liking rap and dance/house with 70% and 55% of respondents having used illicit drugs within the previous month, respectively. Fifty-one percent of heavy metal fans reported using illicit drugs within the same period. The lowest rates were among those who liked alternative music (42%) and pop music (29%). Together, these findings suggest that although other genres (e.g., techno, dance, punk, reggae, rap) may predict greater levels of substance use than heavy metal, a relatively large proportion of these heavy metal fans did report using illicit drugs. Indeed, these reported numbers are higher than societal norms. For example, in a study of more than 20,000 Australian teenagers, only a small percentage used illegal drugs (Guerin & White, 2020 ). In the 2019 Australian National Drug Strategy survey ( N  = 22,000 +), only 16% of Australians had used any illegal drug in the past 12 months (Australian Institute of Health Welfare, 2020 ). Thus, drug use reported by heavy metal fans is roughly three times the Australian national average.

Psychiatric Populations

Despite concerns about the effects of heavy metal music on externalising, internalising and unhealthy behaviours, there has been little research examining these variables within inpatient psychiatric populations. In an early study conducted in an inpatient psychiatric unit, adolescent males admitted for substance use, conduct disorder and/or depression reported their music-listening preferences (Weidinger & Demi, 1991 ). Of particular interest was the association between exposure to negative lyrical themes, problem behaviours and mental health (e.g., aggression, defiance, drug use, depression, suicide attempts). A greater number of problem behaviours were evident in those who listened to music with negative lyrics, and in those who primarily listened to heavy metal music over other genres. Consequently, the authors recommended that the practice at the time of restricting music listening in psychiatric units be retained.

Similarly, adolescents aged between 14–17 years old who were admitted to an inpatient substance abuse treatment program demonstrated particular profiles of music listening, mental health diagnoses and drug use preferences (Doak, 2003 ). While there was no relationship between music and drug use preferences, there were significant correlations between preferred genres and diagnosis, with rap, heavy metal and techno associated with depression, and rap and techno associated with oppositional defiant disorder. Interestingly, adolescents gave similar reasons for using music and drugs; namely, to relax, improve mood, escape reality and to focus. However, the role of music in promoting adaptive self-regulation or maintaining a maladaptive distress-addiction cycle was unclear.

In an experimental study, a female inpatient cohort experiencing severe depression was presented with 45-min of experimenter-selected hard rock or pop music over 14 sessions (Esfandiari & Mansouri, 2014 ). Although they were not necessarily fans of these genres (music preferences were not reported), patients in both listening groups reported significantly decreased levels of depression, whereas those in the non-intervention control group demonstrated no decrease in symptoms. Thus, listening to the hard rock music (albeit not exclusively heavy metal) certainly did not worsen symptoms; rather, it seemed to exert some benefit. As no details about the control group were provided, it is not possible to assess the fairness of the comparison. However, it is highly likely that the experimental groups benefited from a shared listening experience, irrespective of the genre. Nonetheless, the study provides an experimental method that could potentially inform future research, particularly with at-risk fans.

Heavy metal music continues to provide a framework for new programs such as the online peer support ‘Heavy Metal Therapy’ project (Quinn, 2019 ), which through its accompanying website ( https://heavymetaltherapy.co.uk/ ) has published numerous anecdotes describing how heavy metal music has helped fans overcome difficult life challenges such as bullying, bereavement, anxiety, and lack of confidence (Blott, 2021 ). Unfortunately, the effects of heavy metal music on mental health in psychiatric populations is highly under-researched within the field of clinical psychology, and given that this genre of music has been banned in some settings (Weidinger & Demi, 1991 ), empirical evidence is required in order to inform both clinical and policy-based decisions.

Gender Differences

Gender differences are an understudied but important area to investigate in the context of heavy metal music, especially research employing experimental designs. A self-report study conducted with Australian high school students revealed that compared to the liking of pop music, liking of rock and heavy metal music was associated with suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, drug use, delinquency and poor family functioning (Martin et al., 1993 ). Importantly, there were substantial gender differences among these findings. Both male and female school students who liked rock/heavy metal reported lower perceived family closeness and higher rates of delinquency, risk taking and drug-use, compared to those who liked pop. However, relative to female students who liked pop, only female students who liked rock/heavy metal reported greater rates of family separation, lower levels of parental involvement, and higher levels of suicidal ideation, self-harm, and depression. These results suggest that females who listen to rock/heavy metal music represent a particularly vulnerable cohort, and their fandom may be considered a risk factor for poor mental health, self-harm, and suicidal behaviours. Conversely, as the authors suggested, males may benefit from the desirability of rock/heavy metal group membership, thus protecting them from suicide risk.

A study of high school students aged 14–18 years demonstrated a positive relationship between liking of heavy metal music and suicide risk in the female sample only, with higher levels of liking associated with increased risk (Lacourse et al., 2001 ). Female high school students also demonstrated increased levels of powerlessness, normlessness, and meaninglessness as a function of increased liking of heavy metal music. However, when a number of variables were controlled, including age, powerlessness, parental negligence, normlessness, and substance use, the relationship between liking of heavy metal music and suicide risk disappeared. Thus, it is apparent that other social and familial factors play a greater role in suicide risk. Indeed, one study reported that the relationship between heavy metal fandom and depression in adolescent females was only observed if female fans affiliated with peers who were also depressed (Miranda & Claes, 2009 ). As the authors argued, it may be that adolescent females’ affiliation with depressed peers leads to co-rumination that is maintained through the negative lyrical content of heavy metal music.

These studies highlight the possibility that research collapsing across gender may obscure important findings. Furthermore, a greater understanding of the experience of male and female fans of different subgenres of heavy metal is needed to help avoid unwittingly stereotyping gendered experiences for fans across the umbrella of heavy metal sub-genres. For example, the experience of male and female fans of different genres of heavy metal are not likely to be the same when fans of the relatively ‘dark’ and violent death metal or black metal sub-genres are compared with fans of symphonic metal or post-metal sub-genres. Such a nuanced approach to understanding gender differences across the plethora of heavy metal sub-genres awaits systematic empirical investigation.

Personality Traits

Sensation seeking.

In addition to gender, personality traits have also been considered as possible moderating factors in the relationship between heavy metal music listening and externalising behaviours (characterised by aggression and delinquency, for example) and internalising behaviours (characterised by depression and anxiety). In an early study investigating personality and externalising behaviours among adolescents, self-report measures revealed that males and females who were fans of heavy metal music had higher levels of trait sensation seeking and engaged in more reckless behaviour than non-fans (Arnett, 1991b ). Male fans reported more incidents of speeding, drink driving, casual sex and substance use than male non-fans, whereas female fans reported more shoplifting, vandalism, and unsafe sex than female non-fans. While male fans and non-fans were not different in terms of levels of self-esteem, female fans exhibited significantly lower self-esteem than non-fans. However, many of the behavioural differences between the fan and non-fan groups were moderated by levels of sensation seeking; it was not necessarily the heavy metal music that drove these behaviours.

Correlational analyses have also revealed relationships between music preferences, substance use and sensation seeking in adulthood (ages 18–44 years) (Oberle & Garcia, 2015 ). Participants were categorised according to the frequency with which they listened to various genres of music (e.g., pop, rap, country, classical, heavy metal) and these categories correlated with profiles of substance use. Specifically, rap/hip-hop, electronica/dance, and heavy metal categories were positively correlated with alcohol and marijuana use. However, when sensation seeking was controlled, neither heavy metal or electronica/dance retained an association with alcohol or marijuana use. Thus, sensation seeking was a better predictor of substance use than music-listening preferences.

The Big Five Personality Traits

Adult fans of heavy metal, alternative rock, hip-hop, rap, punk, house, and trance (so called ‘problem music’) have been found to be no different from fans of other genres (‘non-problem music’) in terms of extraversion, neuroticism, openness to experience, conscientiousness, and agreeableness (Bodner & Bensimon, 2015 ). Similarly, Butkovic and Dopudj ( 2017 ) explored personality traits among male heavy metal musicians and classical musicians and found no differences across the Big Five personality domains. Rather than seeking retrospective reports about listening practices, Swami et al. ( 2013 ) presented contemporary heavy metal songs to participants who were not necessarily fans of the genre. The relationships between ratings of liking for the songs, personality traits and a number of other variables were examined (e.g., need for uniqueness, attitudes towards authority, self-esteem and religiosity). In terms of personality traits, greater overall liking for the songs was only associated with higher levels of Openness to Experience. However, greater liking indicated, albeit weakly, more negative attitudes towards authority, lower self-esteem, lower religiosity, and a greater need for uniqueness. The authors suggested that those with anti-authority attitudes that included religious authority are drawn to heavy metal because its lyrical content depicts these attitudes. However, these finding cannot definitively inform knowledge about personality traits of self-identified fans, and again, drawing conclusions should be tempered.

In a study more applicable to heavy metal fans, Thompson et al. ( 2019 ) found that fans of death metal, a sub-genre of heavy metal characterised by extremely violent lyrical themes, had slightly lower levels of conscientiousness and agreeableness than non-fans. Two possible explanations for this finding were proposed: (1) the violent themes depicted in the music are incompatible with high levels of these traits, and these listeners are repelled by the music, and (2) exposure to violent lyrics desensitises listeners, causing subtle personality changes. However, the authors caution that the large overlap in levels of these traits across fan and non-fan groups suggests subtle trends, rather than clear distinctions between groups. Interestingly, despite the violent nature of the lyrics, the study revealed no differences between fans and non-fans in terms of state empathic capacity (cf. Slade et al., 2021 ). There is also now evidence that fans and non-fans do not show differences in sensitivity to acts of violence viewed in pictures (Sun et al., 2019 ). As Thompson et al. ( 2019 ) explain, fans may distance themselves from the violence depicted in the music as they draw a boundary between aesthetics and non-artistic experiences. As a result, long-term exposure to violent themes in music may not lead to desensitisation to violence, and thus, fans’ empathic response to viewing violence is similar to non-fans of violent music.

While there is evidence to suggest that sensation seeking partially explains the problem behaviours associated with heavy metal music fandom, further research is required to establish the presence of distinct personality profiles among fans of heavy metal. Indeed, this endeavour will allow researchers to examine the moderating role that personality profiles play in the relationship between heavy metal music listening and wellbeing, and will support the establishment of developmental models using longitudinal approaches.

Social and Emotional Goals

Typically, research has focused on negative outcomes, including psychopathology, antisocial behaviour, substance use and suicide risk, but there have been a number of studies designed to investigate the positive or protective aspects of listening to heavy metal music (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ). In fact, adolescents and young adults are not passive consumers of music. Rather, they choose music in order to achieve a range of goals (McFerran & Saarikallio, 2014 ; McFerran et al., 2015 ; Papinczak et al., 2015 ). Broadly, these goals can be conceived as socially or emotionally driven (Laiho, 2004 ; Miranda, 2013 ; Schäfer and Eerola, 2020 ).

Sense of Belonging and Identity Through Heavy Metal Music

Generally, music appears to influence social development by shaping identity and facilitating autonomy from the family (Lozon & Bensimon, 2014 ), fostering peer affiliation (Lozon & Bensimon, 2014 ; North et al., 2000 ), developing community (e.g. Chadborn et al., 2018 ), managing group dynamics, and allowing for the rehearsal of social roles (Hines & McFerran, 2014 ; Miranda, 2013 ; North & Hargreaves, 1999 ; North et al., 2000 ). Young adults have also reported using their fan-status to communicate information about their demographics, social status and personal characteristics (North & Hargreaves, 1999 ). While liking of heavy metal is associated with low levels of conformity to mainstream culture (Bonneville-Roussy & Rust, 2018 ), an interview-based study of young male listeners of heavy metal music aged 14–20 years revealed that fans have a strong affiliation with their music-based culture (Arnett, 1991a ). Nearly 60% of fans considered music as a means of fostering social connections, highlighting the role that heavy metal plays in solidifying social and cultural identity. Moreover, adult fans have reported using heavy metal to explore themes of religion, death and politics, and to provide insight into their social identity and individuality (Hines & McFerran, 2014 ). Others have suggested that identification with heavy metal music and solidarity with other fans can facilitate emotional strength and survival in the face of adversity (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ). A retrospective study offers support for this proposition, revealing that identifying with a non-mainstream subculture may act to protect vulnerable youths against mental health concerns by supporting identity development and autonomy (Howe et al., 2015 ). Furthermore, young Australian heavy metal fans provided qualitative reports that revealed how a sense of belonging and identification with metal culture can act as a protective factor against marginalisation and difficult social environments (e.g., ostracism, bullying) (Rowe & Guerin, 2018 ). 

Interestingly, other research has indicated that fans of rock music, which included heavy metal among other genres such as rock, alternative, gothic and punk, feel consoled via lyrics and the music itself, rather than through connections with fans and artists (ter Bogt et al., 2017 ). In fact, others have argued that the lyrical themes in heavy metal music provide fans with a sense that they are not alone in their emotional experience, and that this provides feelings of increased comradery and connectedness, and reduced levels of shame (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ; Schwartz & Fouts, 2003 ). Thus, a sense of connectedness appears to emerge from heavy metal music listening through affiliating with other fans or artists, and/or connecting to the messages communicated in the lyrical content. Of course, the circumstances or individual factors that give rise to the positive or negative associations within this particular sub-culture are unclear. Nevertheless, social goals are worthy of consideration, especially when working with young people in clinical settings.

Regulating Mood and Emotion with Heavy Metal Music

Music’s influence on wellbeing is realised through emotion regulation (McFerran et al., 2015 ; Randall et al., 2014 ; Saarikallio & Erkkilä, 2007 ), coping styles (Miranda & Claes, 2009 ; Semenza, 2018 ), and personality and motivation factors (Miranda, 2013 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ). Broadly, ‘music-in-mood regulation strategies’ involve the use of music to distract, reinforce, express or simply explore and work through emotions or mood states (Saarikallio, 2008 , 2011 , 2012 ). Consequently, adolescents have reported that music listening helps them feel happier, more relaxed, less bored, more connected and understood, and more confident (e.g. McFerran et al., 2015 ; Miranda, 2013 ). Music also provides solace, with two-thirds of listeners reporting that they use music to experience comfort and consolation, to reduce stress and increase emotional and psychological wellbeing, particularly when experiencing depression and/or anxiety (ter Bogt et al., 2017 ). 

Qualitative reports provided by fans of heavy metal clearly demonstrate that listeners use music to vent their emotions to improve a negative mood (Arnett, 1991a ; Hines & McFerran, 2014 ; Saarikallio & Erkkilä, 2007 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ) or to enhance an existing positive mood (Scheel & Westefeld, 1999 ). Moreover, male fans have reported that listening to heavy metal music validates their emotions, particularly sadness and anger, and that the music helps them engage with and regulate these feelings, while increasing energy, motivation, and feelings of power and self-confidence (Hines & McFerran, 2014 ). Indeed, the more adolescent males listen to heavy metal music to release anger, the better their family relationships and the lower their drug use (Lacourse et al., 2001 ).

Fans have also reported using heavy metal music to fully experience and release anger and sadness, calm down, increase happiness, and to immerse themselves in the feelings of being in love (Sharman & Dingle, 2015 ). These findings are consistent with a study in which fans and non-fans listened to 60-s excerpts of death metal and reported their emotional responses to the music using quantitative and qualitative measures (Thompson et al., 2019 ). After listening to the excerpts, fans reported: 1) a decrease in negative affect, including tension; and 2) an increase in positive affect, including energy, enjoyment, engagement, empowerment, joy, wonder, nostalgia, peace and transcendence. This pattern was the converse for non-fans who reported decreased positive affect and increased negative affect (e.g., tension, fear, anger). These findings have now been replicated in a different sample of death metal fans and extended to fans of violent rap music (Olsen et al., 2022 ). Fans have also reported that violent heavy metal music serves cathartic and motivational functions, and has helped promote engagement with physical, creative, work/study and domestic based activities. Interestingly, an equal proportion of fans and non-fans (~ 10% within each group) reported that the emotions experienced during listening were conducive to antisocial behaviour (e.g., aggression, violence, reckless driving, excessive drinking). Thus, the majority of heavy metal fans report using music in adaptive ways aimed at enhancing wellbeing.

However, the outcomes of using heavy metal music to regulate mood and emotion are not always positive. For instance, although similar proportions of pop and rock/heavy metal fans report listening to their preferred music when in sad or happy moods, rock/heavy metal fans who felt sadder after listening had higher levels of depression, delinquency, suicidal ideation, and higher rates of self-harm and drug-use (Martin et al., 1993 ). Relatedly, in a non-clinical sample of 145 young adult fans of heavy metal, rap, or classical music, those who reported a greater magnitude of depressive symptoms were more likely to experience negative emotions (sadness, tension, anger, and fear) in response to their preferred music, and more likely to attempt to regulate depressive symptoms via the discharge mood regulation strategy, rather than diversion (Powell et al., 2021 ). Notably, both mood regulation strategies did not alleviate (or exacerbate) the experience of negative emotions in those reporting depressive symptoms.

There are also associations between adolescent females’ use of music for release of aggression and poor family relationships, greater feelings of powerless, normlessness and meaninglessness, and increased drug use (Lacourse et al., 2001 ). It appears that music-based coping styles interact with gender. Namely, adolescent females who use music as an avoidant coping strategy report higher levels of depression than adolescent females who use music as a problem-oriented coping strategy (i.e., to resolve or reduce stress) (Miranda & Claes, 2009). However, increased levels of depression in adolescent males are more closely linked to an emotion-oriented music-based coping style than avoidant or problem-oriented coping styles . Together, the evidence is consistent with research indicating that: 1) listeners experiencing anxiety and depression, and those who tend to ruminate may feel worse after listening to mood-congruent sad music (Garrido & Schubert, 2015 ; Garrido et al., 2016 ; McFerran et al., 2015 ; Peltola & Eerola, 2016 ); and 2) using music to suppress unwanted emotions can have negative impacts on psychological, emotional, and social wellbeing (Chin & Rickard, 2014 ).

Studies using a validated measure of music-based mood regulation such as the Music in Mood Regulation Scale (MMR; Saarikallio, 2008 , 2012 ) have also highlighted strategies that may be maladaptive. These studies further bring into question the reports provided by fans; namely that music helps them release, vent or discharge negative emotion (e.g., anger). Without considering specific genres, discharging anger via listening has been associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress, and using music as a distraction or diversion from negative emotions is associated with elevated levels of anxiety and stress. Conversely, those who use music for entertainment – to maintain a happy mood – show low levels of depression (Thomson et al., 2014 ). Carlson et al. ( 2015 ) also reported that the use of the discharge strategy in males was associated with higher levels of anxiety and neuroticism.

However, it has been suggested that particular strategies may elicit different outcomes as a function of preferred music genre (Carlson et al., 2015 ; Karreman et al., 2017 ; Thoma, et al., 2012a , 2012b ; Thoma, et al., 2012a , 2012b ). For example, Bodner and Bensimon ( 2015 ) examined preferred mood regulation strategies against preferences for so-called ‘problem music’ (heavy metal, alternative rock, hip-hop, rap, punk, house and trance) or ‘non-problem music’ (other genres). The two fan-groups did not differ in the degree to which they used music for entertainment or to induce strong sensation. However, fans of ‘problem-music’ used music for solace, revival, diversion, to facilitate mental work and to discharge emotion more so than ‘non-problem music’ fans. With a particular focus on fans of death metal, a self-report study revealed that fans used music for revival, discharging emotions and facilitating mental work more so than non-fans (Thompson et al., 2019 ). Unlike Bodner and Bensimon ( 2015 ), fans reported using music for entertainment more so than non-fans, but did not report using music any more than non-fans for solace or diversion. These differences are likely because Thompson and colleagues examined mood regulation strategies of a specific sub-genre of heavy metal music, and it is indeed possible that fans of heavy metal demonstrate different profiles than fans of other genres classified as ‘problem music’ (e.g., rap, hip-hop, dance) by Bodner and Bensimon ( 2015 ).

Following the emerging interest in the relationships between genre preferences and music-based emotion regulation strategies, there is now a need to explore how the use of these strategies may be adaptive or maladaptive for heavy metal fans, with consideration given to gender (e.g. Miranda & Claes, 2009 ) and personality (e.g. Karreman et al., 2017 ). For instance, there is evidence that listeners with high levels of neuroticism show greater reductions in negative affect when instructed to consciously enhance their emotional state during music listening (Karreman et al., 2017 ). More research in the domain of music in mood regulation is needed to understand the emotional and psychological outcomes for heavy metal fans who use particular emotion regulation strategies, and with systematic consideration given to other individual factors (e.g., gender, personality). This endeavour is critical for highlighting the implications of adopting emotion regulation strategies for longer-term mental health (Blais-Rochette & Miranda, 2016 ; Carlson et al., 2015 ; McFerran & Saarikallio, 2014 ; Randall et al., 2014 ; van den Tol, 2016 ) and for recommending specific strategies in therapeutic settings (e.g., Dingle et al., 2016 ). For instance, advising a heavy metal music fan to listen to calming music to reduce distress may be detrimental when their preference is to listen to their preferred genre to discharge negative emotions.

Conclusions

The aim of this narrative review was to synthesise research findings grounded primarily within the field of music psychology and with particular focus on risks and benefits of heavy metal music with aggressive themes. With respect to risks, correlational evidence suggests that listening to heavy metal music is associated with psychological and behavioural problems that include aggression, delinquency, disrespect toward societal norms and women, and a vulnerability to mood disturbances such as anxiety and depression. However, there is little empirical reason to conclude that heavy metal music actually causes such problems. Fans of heavy metal also report relatively lower rates of substance use than fans of other genres (e.g., punk, techno), but substance use in this population is still considerably higher than societal norms.

Not unexpectedly, such risks are moderated by individual difference variables including personality and gender. For instance, sensation seeking may partially account for substance use and antisocial behaviour among fans of heavy metal music. Importantly, evidence suggests that female fans are more likely to experience poor mental health than male fans (Lacourse et al., 2001 ; Martin et al., 1993 ; Miranda & Claes, 2009 ). Three factors may account for this gender difference. First, relative to males, it is typically less acceptable for females to be heavy metal fans and their fan status may be viewed as a more extreme form of non-conformity, isolating them from mainstream culture (Phillipov, 2012 ). Second, females are frequently represented as victims of violence in lyrical and visual content of heavy metal music with aggressive themes (e.g., album covers, music videos), whereas males are often portrayed as having agency and power (Walser, 2013 ). Third, females are underrepresented among musicians and fan communities, giving female fans fewer opportunities for feelings of connectedness and belonging (Donze, 2010 ). These propositions require empirical investigation, and exploring the relationships between wellbeing, gender and sensation seeking among fans will provide greater insight.

With respect to benefits, there is an emerging body of evidence showing that heavy metal music can confer a range of benefits to its fans, especially those who approach fandom with harmonious rather than obsessive passion (Olsen et al., 2022 ). Primarily, this research has focused on the role of music in regulating mood and emotion (Dingle et al., 2016 ; McFerran & Saarikallio, 2014 ; Saarikallio & Erkkilä, 2007 ; Thompson et al., 2019 ), forming individual and cultural identity (North & Hargreaves, 1999 ; North et al., 2000 ), facilitating autonomy from the family, and fostering peer affiliation (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ; Hines & McFerran, 2014 ; Lozon & Bensimon, 2014 ).

A critical observation from this narrative review is that there are inherent challenges in examining the short- and long-term impact of heavy metal music that constrain the kinds of conclusions that can be drawn. First, statistics on the psychological and behavioural profile of fans are necessarily correlational, making it difficult to draw causal inferences (C. Baker & Brown, 2016 ; F. Baker & Bor, 2008 ; McFerran, 2016 ). Does heavy metal music cause or reinforce psychological problems for certain individuals, or do people with pre-existing psychological challenges gravitate towards this music, perhaps because it is consistent with their experience and provides a sense of belonging and consolation (McFerran et al., 2016 )? Second, experimental studies that report short-term negative outcomes from listening to this music frequently fail to restrict their sampling strategies to self-declared fans of the music when it is known that fans and non-fans react in contrasting ways. Those who enthusiastically embrace extreme metal music tend to feel empowered and joyful after engaging with this music; those who do not like this music rarely report positive outcomes and are typically left feeling tense, irritated, and angry (Thompson et al., 2019 ). Of course, non-fans are unlikely to listen to heavy metal music in their day-to-day lives, and yet there is a risk that social attitudes, policy decisions and therapeutic recommendations might be made on the basis of studies that reflect the experiences of non-fans, rather than fans who actually engage with this music.

Future research will benefit from a greater focus on the experiences of self-declared fans and include experimental designs in conjunction with correlational analyses. Research will also benefit by investigating potential precursors to positive and negative engagement with heavy metal music, for example by assessing trait characteristics such as morbid curiosity (Scrivner et al., 2021 ) and moral reasoning (Messick & Aranda, 2020 ), in conjunction with fans’ tendencies for harmonious or obsessive passion (Olsen et al., 2022 ). The effects of listening to heavy metal music on psychiatric patients is also an area of research that requires attention, as it is within this population that empirical evidence is critical for guiding clinical recommendations pertaining to music use. This avenue of research is critical to ensure that negative stereotypes do not cloud clinical decisions (Rosenbaum & Prinsky, 1991 ). Indeed, understanding the mechanisms that drive affective, cognitive and behavioural responses to heavy metal music will be critical for informing interventions that address mental health concerns in fans. Such research will help therapists identify fans’ adaptive and maladaptive trait characteristics and listening behaviours, so informed decisions can be made regarding music engagement that optimally supports wellbeing while minimising maladaptive risk.

Data Availability

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

Change history

11 june 2022.

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-03298-2

We employ the term gender to distinguish between males, females, and non-binary participants even when referring to research in which the original authors used the term ‘sex’. We adopt this approach because we assume participants were asked to select a gender label at the time of participation, rather than to indicate a label they might have been assigned at birth based on their biological features (i.e., sex).

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Olsen, K.N., Terry, J. & Thompson, W.F. Psychosocial risks and benefits of exposure to heavy metal music with aggressive themes: Current theory and evidence. Curr Psychol 42 , 21133–21150 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-03108-9

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• The rock song index: essential information on the 7,500 most important songs of rock and roll by Bruce Pollock Call Number: Ref ML128.R6.P65 1997
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Music research topics are an excellent opportunity to trace the history of the development of individual genres or entire eras. You can create an essay or research paper with an emphasis on certain stylistic features, or delve deeper into the technical aspects of album making. Also, the research topics in music allow you to learn more about popular composers, musicians, and individual bands. You can find out the history of creating certain songs or finding out the nuances of the breakup of groups.

While music research paper topics seem easy, it still requires a good outline and reliable sources to gather information. The life of many musicians is very busy, so certain topics for music research papers may require a more thorough analysis. For example, you will need to research the biography and all creation stages of famous music industry personalities.

Any research topic about music should be analyzed, and only verified facts added. You should also avoid using emotional coloring and bias. And don't forget about formatting. Any interesting music topics require clear structuring into paragraphs, lists, and subheadings.

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Individual styles are especially appreciated in research paper topics on music. You can choose the genre or group that interests you. This will allow you to get additional motivation and focus more on facts. The main challenge in this case is to find authoritative sources.

• The impact of rock and roll on the modern music industry.
• The basic concepts of creating musical songs.
• Rock performers and their popularity in society.
• Reasons for the negative attitude towards the rock vocalist.
• Rock musicians and problems with the law.
• The nuances of alcohol addiction of rock musicians.
• The main features of creating rock songs.
• Musical agitation as the main motive of rock songs.
• The main reasons for making rock songs.
• Symbiosis of rock and classical music.
• Rock performers and popular musicians.
• The analysis of the creative personality on the example of Kurt Cobain.
• The modern musical trend in culture.
• Top 10 most popular metal groups.
• Why has metal music become so popular?
• The mix of traditional music and heavy metal.
• Analysis of lyrical constructions of metal performers.
• The symbiosis of musical instruments in metal music.
• The analysis of seventh chords in the construction of metal songs.
• The influence of metal on other genres.
• The symbiosis of metal and pop music.
• The influence of metal vocalists on American culture.
• The symbiosis of genres as the reason for the creation of metal.
• The modern icons of the metal scene.
• The best metal bands in the last thirty years.
• The analysis of the dynamics of the popularity of metal bands.
• The modern concerts on the example of metal bands
• Female vocalists in pop music.
• The reason for the creation of numerous female musical groups.
• Pop music as a tuning fork of public morality.
• Why is pop music degrading?
• How can pop music be used to improve college grades?
• The nuances of using pop music in contemporary American culture.
• How can pop music be used to improve mood?
• The symbiosis of pop music and rap culture.
• How does contemporary pop music affect young people?
• The study of pop music in the context of the social culture of Harlem.
• The classic examples of pop artists.
• Madonna: the most popular popes of personalities.
• The analysis of the popularity of Britney Spears.
• Pop icons of the past decade.
• Hip-hop as the basis of the movement for social equality.
• The origins of hip-hop and the reasons for its popularization.
• How does hip-hop affect contemporary pop artists?
• The analysis of hip-hop performers on the example of the best vocalists of the decade.
• How does hip-hop allow athletes to train?
• Modern hip-hop and new musical trends.
• The symbiosis of hip-hop and metal music.
• How does hip-hop motivate people for sporting achievements?
• The analysis of hip-hop performers on the example of female vocalists.
• Modern hip-hop and its impact on youth.
• The main aspects of the integration of hip-hop music in the modern community.
• All technical aspects of creating hip-hop music.
• The classic approach to the formation of hip-hop motives.
• The analysis of the structure of hip-hop songs.
• The best hip-hop artists of the last decade.
• The stages of the formation of jazz as a separate musical genre.
• Why is jazz so popular these days?
• The nuances of studying jazz musical combinations.
• How Jess influences the structuring of student learning.
• The nuances of jazz performers in modern America.
• The best American jazz performers.
• Jazz as the most structured musical theory.
• How can you quickly learn to create jazz compositions?
• The influence of jazz on the cultural and political elite of the United States.
• Can jazz replace other musical styles?
• Jazz fusion as an example of musical prowess.
• The technical aspects of creating a pentatonic scale in a jazz style.
• The selection of jazz musicians.
• The development of jazz in the United States.
• The main reasons for the popularization of jazz in modern society.
• Blues and its influence on the development of the music industry.
• The symbiosis of blues and jazz.
• Can the Blues be compared to classical music?
• How do contemporary artists use the Blues in pop music?
• Historical context creation of blues compositions.
• How does the Blues affect rock music?
• Can the Blues help students learn?
• How blues musicians are developing in the USA.
• Can blues be used as a springboard for classical music production?
• The best US blues artists of the last 20 years.
• Blues performers of the last ten years.
• The influence of the blues on the formation of other genres.
• The analysis of the statistical popularity of the blues.
• The critical aspects when creating Blues compositions.
• The selection of blues parties when creating music.
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• The classical music and the best composers of the last century.
• Beethoven and his best works.
• How did Mozart influence classical music?
• Is the symbiosis of jazz and classical music possible?
• The structure of making classical music.
• The stages of the formation of classical music in modern society.
• Can you replace pop culture with classical music?
• How does classical music affect the psychological state of people?
• The classical music and symbiosis with opera.
• The basic concept of the analysis of classical music.
• A technical comparison of the mastery of classical composers.
• The choice of classical music for the mood.
• The classical music and its influence on rock culture.
• The main technical aspects of creating a score.

The region is important for those looking for musical topics for research paper. Most genres of European music and some information about composers are open to general use. If your research topic on music is aimed at analyzing the Arab countries, then you will need more time looking for reliable information. The fact is that not all Muslim archives are in the public domain.

Western music

• The features of musical motives of Western music.
• The history of Western music with real examples.
• How has Western music changed over the past two hundred years?
• Is it possible to combine Western music with European motives?
• The features of the use of traditional Western musical instruments.
• How do Western countries use music for meditation?
• Western music in the context of modern society.
• The role of Western music in the life of native people.
• How melodic is oriental music?
• The stages of the formation of Western music in American culture.

European music

• European music and modern trends.
• British pop bands and their worldwide popularity.
• How popular are German pop bands in the USA?
• European music and national musical instruments.
• How does European music affect well-being?
• The analysis of European music with specific examples.
• Top 10 of the greatest European musical groups.
• The analysis of European music on the example of instrumental groups.
• The best pop music performers in Europe.
• How does pop music influence the development of culture?

Asian music

• Asian music: the example of ethnic trends.
• The influence of Asian music on world culture.
• The main musical instruments of Asia.
• Can you compare Asian music with European motives?
• How has Asian music changed over the past hundred years?
• The nuances of creating Asian music.
• How does Asian music influence contemporary cinema?
• The best Asian performers.
• Top 10 Asian vocalists who have conquered the whole world.
• Do national instruments influence the creation of Asian music?

By history periods

You can use music appreciation research paper topics to analyse a specific period in history. Baroque, Renaissance and other eras are especially relevant for research as they allow you to see the history of the development of music. You can concentrate on a specific time period and the most famous composers.

• Medieval music and its influence on the Crusades.
• The major trends in the medieval music industry.
• The influence of kings on the creation of medieval music.
• The main musical instruments in medieval Europe.
• Musical instruments in Central Asia during the Middle Ages.
• What kind of music was popular in the Middle Ages.
• How difficult was the life of a musician in the Middle Ages?
• The analysis of medieval music on modern examples.
• How has contemporary music influenced pop culture?
• Historical aspects of the creation of medieval music.
• The influence of medieval music and culture.
• The rhythmic pattern of medieval music.
• The medieval music during the feast.
• The influence of medieval music on classical music.
• The medieval music channel and musical comparison.

Renaissance

• The dawn of musical culture during the Renaissance.
• The analysis of Renaissance music with specific examples.
• How has Renaissance music influenced contemporary pop culture?
• The analysis of Renaissance music as a constructive masterpiece.
• The nuances of Renaissance music and, most importantly, musical instruments.
• How difficult is it to reproduce Renaissance music in today's environment?
• The analysis of structural compositions of the Renaissance.
• Renaissance music as a tuning fork of public morality.
• How has music changed since the Renaissance?
• Can Renaissance music be used to create a modern instrumental ensemble?

Baroque Age (XVI-XVIII)

• The influence of politicians on the formation of music during the Baroque period.
• How has Baroque influenced contemporary instrumental music?
• The nuances of musical constructions during the Baroque period.
• How has the baroque influenced modern instruments?
• The nuances of the Baroque in the context of the complexity of musical compositions.
• The main effect of the Baroque in contemporary music.
• The historical aspects of the creation of the Baroque as a separate genre of music.
• The influence of the Baroque on the creation of contemporary musical groups.
• The analysis of the structure and musical motives of Baroque in detail.
• Baroque in contemporary music.
• The nuances of creating songs in the Baroque style.

Classical Age (XVIII-XIV)

• The Classical Age of music in modern society.
• How did the Classical Age influence the formation of musical trends?
• The general concept of the Classical Age in instrumental music.
• The nuances of creating music based on the Classical Age.
• How did the Classical Age influence the creation of pop culture?
• The theory of creating musical compositions on the example of the Classical Age.
• The general factors of the Classical Age in instrumental music.
• The main trends and popular instruments of the Classical Age.
• The main musical compositions of the 14th century.
• The main factors in the creation of musical compositions in the 13th century.

Romantic Era (XIV-XX)

• The Romantic Era and its impact on contemporary music.
• The main principles of structuring music into the Romantic Era.
• Features of creating instrumental compositions in the Romantic Era.
• The Romantic Era and modern music trends.
• The main factors influencing the Romantic Era in the music industry.
• Key figures in the music industry and their passion for the Romantic Era.
• How did the Romantic Era form the modern style?
• How has the Romantic Era influenced rhythmic music?
• The Romantic Era in the music industry.
• The main aspects of the formation of the Romantic Era in musical culture.
• Making marching music in the Romantic Era.
• Features of creating musical compositions.
• The technical aspects that influenced modern romantic motives.

Modern Era (XX-XXI)

• Jazz music as a phenomenon of the modern roar the influence of the modern era on instrumental music.
• Technical aspects of hip-hop and Reggae.
• How is contemporary classical music created?
• Can modern music genres be combined to create something new?
• Why is the modern music industry stagnating?
• The aspects of contemporary music.
• How does instrumental music affect culture?
• Contemporary music and technical innovation.
• How is contemporary music created?
• The nuances of creating hip-hop albums.

How To Write On Music Related Research Topics

By choosing topics about music for an essay, you get the opportunity to prepare a detailed paper work with facts, genre nuances and detailed biographies of famous musicians. You need to stick to the formatting and your outline. Find reliable information for music history research topics and talk about the emergence of certain genres.

Music business research topics are especially important, as you need to consider not only the stylistic but also the commercial nuances of the bands. For example, you can prepare detailed data on annual music tours or album sales.

All music appreciation presentation topics require detailed factual focus, which can be difficult for many people. If you are not ready to do it yourself, then we can help you.

Our service will solve your problem with music research topics high school. We also guarantee that you will get a good grade. We will help you organize all the nuances so that your music history paper topics become a reason for pride and high scores.

An Inspiration List

• popular music | Description, History, & Facts | Britannica
• History of music
• Music History from Primary Sources
• Brief History of Music: An Introduction
• How Music and Instruments Began

Education Related Topics

Music Research Paper Topics

Music Research Paper Topics : These are just a few ideas, and you can narrow or broaden the focus of your research paper depending on your interests and the resources available to you.

How to Choose Music Research Topics

Music psychology research topics, rock music research paper topics, music history paper topics.

Choosing a music research topic can be an exciting process, but it’s important to consider your interests, expertise, and the potential impact of the topic. Here are some steps to help you choose a music research topic:

• Identify Your Interests: Start by thinking about the aspects of music that intrigue you the most. Do you have a favorite genre, time period, or musical instrument? Are you interested in music theory, composition, performance, history, psychology, or technology? Your passion for a specific area will make the research process more enjoyable and engaging.
• Narrow Down Your Focus: Music is a broad field, so it’s helpful to narrow down your focus. For example, if you’re interested in music history, you could narrow it down to a particular era, composer, or musical movement. If you’re interested in music psychology, you could explore topics like the effects of music on mood or the neuroscience of musical perception.
• Consider Significance: Think about the significance of the topic. Is it a current or emerging trend in the music industry? Does it address a gap in existing research? Choosing a topic with relevance and importance can make your research more impactful.
• Research Existing Literature: Before finalizing your topic, conduct a literature review to see what research has already been done in your chosen area. This will help you identify gaps in knowledge and potential research questions.
• Brainstorm Research Questions: Based on your interests and the gaps you’ve identified, brainstorm a list of potential research questions. These questions will guide your research and help you refine your topic.
• Consult with Advisors or Instructors: If you’re a student, consider discussing your ideas with your academic advisor or music instructors. They can provide valuable insights, suggest resources, and help you refine your research topic.
• Practical Feasibility: Consider the practical aspects of your chosen topic. Do you have access to the necessary resources, data, and materials for your research? Make sure your chosen topic is feasible given your available time and resources.
• Originality and Innovation: While building on existing research is important, aim for a unique angle or perspective that adds something new to the field. Originality and innovation can make your research more compelling.
• Cross-Disciplinary Connections: Music intersects with various disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, technology, and cultural studies. Consider exploring topics that bridge music with another area of interest to create a multidisciplinary research project.
• Personal Connection: Sometimes, a personal connection or experience with music can inspire meaningful research. Reflect on how music has impacted your life and whether there’s a topic that resonates with you on a personal level.
• Relevance to Current Issues: Consider how your chosen topic relates to current issues, debates, or trends in the music industry or society at large. Research that addresses timely concerns can attract more attention and have a broader impact.
• Flexibility: Keep in mind that your research may evolve as you delve deeper into the topic. Be open to adjusting your research questions or direction based on new insights and findings.

Remember that choosing a research topic is a process, and it’s okay to take your time to explore different possibilities before settling on the right one. Your passion and enthusiasm for the topic will drive your research and contribute to the overall success of your project.

Here are some potential topics for a music research paper:

The history of a particular musical genre, such as blues, jazz, rock, or hip hop

The evolution of music technology, including the development of instruments and recording techniques

The impact of social and cultural movements on music, such as the civil rights movement or the counterculture of the 1960s

• The role of music in different societies and cultures around the world

The psychology of music, including how it affects our emotions and behavior

The business of music, including record labels, music festivals, and concert promotion

The use of music in therapy and healthcare

The relationship between music and language, including the role of music in language acquisition

The role of music in education, including its use in early childhood development and in teaching academic subjects

The intersection of music and politics, including the use of music in protest and resistance movements.

Here are some potential topics for music psychology research:

• The impact of music on memory and cognition
• The role of music in emotion regulation
• The effects of music on physical health, including the use of music in pain management and rehabilitation
• The relationship between musical training and academic performance
• The use of music in therapy, including music therapy for mental health conditions and neurological disorders
• The neuroscience of music, including the brain regions and neural networks involved in musical processing and performance
• The influence of cultural and social factors on musical preferences and behavior
• The effects of music on social bonding and group cohesion
• The role of music in advertising and consumer behavior
• The psychological effects of musical performance, including the impact of stage fright and the role of feedback in musical learning.

These are just a few ideas, and you can narrow or broaden the focus of your research depending on your interests and the resources available to you.

Here are some potential topics for a rock music research paper:

• The history and evolution of rock music, including the different subgenres and their cultural and social context
• The role of rock music in social and cultural movements, such as the counterculture of the 1960s or the punk movement of the 1970s
• The impact of technology on rock music, including the use of electric instruments and the development of recording techniques
• The business of rock music, including record labels, music festivals, and concert promotion
• The relationship between rock music and other art forms, such as literature, film, or visual art
• The psychological effects of rock music, including its impact on emotion and behavior
• The role of rock music in education, including its use in teaching history and cultural studies
• The influence of rock music on fashion and style
• The intersection of rock music and politics, including the use of rock music in protest and resistance movements
• Comparative analyses of different rock music scenes and subcultures around the world.

These are just a few ideas, and you can narrow or broaden the focus of your research paper depending on your interests and the resources available to you.

Here are some potential topics for a music history research paper:

• The development of a particular musical genre or style, such as classical, jazz, rock, or hip hop
• The history of music education and the role of music in education
• The history of music notation and the impact of notation on musical composition and performance
• The impact of social and cultural movements on music, such as the Renaissance or the counterculture of the 1960s
• The history of music technology, including the development of instruments and recording techniques
• The impact of political and economic events on music, such as wars or economic recessions
• The role of music in religious and spiritual practices
• The history of music therapy and the use of music in healthcare
• The relationship between music and other art forms, such as literature, film, or visual art.

Steve George is Blogger, a marketer and content writer. He has B.A. in Economics from the University of Washington. Read more about Mzuri Mag .

• Music Persuasive Speech Topics
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Resources in Music

• The Music Index Contains cover-to-cover indexing and abstracts for every aspect of the classical and popular world of music including musicological and organological topics, as well as book reviews, record reviews, first performances, and obituaries from music periodicals from over many countries.
• Music Magazine Archive Covers rock, folk, hip-hop & rap.
• Music Periodicals Database indexes more than 400 music journals, with an emphasis on recent issues
• Performing Arts Periodicals Database draws content from scholarly and popular performing arts periodicals, and also indexes a variety of documents such as biographical profiles, conference papers, obituaries, interviews, discographies, reviews and events
• RILM Collection of full-text resources on music and music-related subjects (ethnomusicology, theory, instruments, pedagogy, performance, dance, etc). Includes coverage from international journals, audio recordings, bibliographies, conference proceedings, dissertations, electronic resources, Festschriften, essays, film & video, monographs, reviews, and other types of resources, dating from the late 18th century to the present.
• Rock's Backpages (1950s-present) An online archive of music journalism sourced from freelance contributions to the music and mainstream press from the 1950s to the present day. It contains over 25,000 articles, interviews, features, and reviews from magazines like Creem, Rolling Stone, Village Voice, Rock Scene, among many others. In addition, it includes 400 audio interviews with rock and roll artists. Please be aware that the content in this database is curated and that the periodicals do not contain full runs.

Multi-discipline Searches

• Articles+ Provides a quick, easy and comprehensive search of thousands of journal articles. Use the search filters to select the type of material you need: newspaper or magazine article, scholarly journal article, and yes... even ebooks (that's what the + indicates). Can be accessed through Quicksearch or via the direct link here.
• Academic Search Premier (EBSCO) A huge scholarly, multidisciplinary full-text database designed specifically for academic institutions.
• Entertainment Industry Magazine Archive An archival research resource containing the essential primary sources for studying the history of the film and entertainment industries, from the era of vaudeville and silent movies through to 2000. The core US and UK trade magazines covering film, music, broadcasting and theater are included, together with film fan magazines and music press titles.
• Google Scholar results are broad but somewhat inconsistent--use as a secondary resource
• JSTOR full-text from core scholarly journals
• LexisNexis Academic newspapers, magazines, transcripts, business and legal information
• Popular culture in Britain and America, 1950-1975 : rock and roll, counterculture, peace and protest This resource contains digitizations of popular culture collections from the U.S. and U.K. between 1950 to 1975. These original archival materials are from various libraries and archives. Topics include student protests, civil rights, consumerism, and the Vietnam War.
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global Dissertations that focus on popular music will give you a good idea of what upcoming scholars are writing about. This database provides full-text, downloadable pdfs.
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Opinion: Including Globally Diverse Groups Improves Music Research

To learn about how the human brain perceives music, researchers must expand studies beyond western music and culture..

Left: Top: Traditional musicians in Mozambique play self-made instruments in 2022. Visual: Ivan Bruno/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus

W estern music and culture have had widespread influence around the world and have deeply affected research designed to understand how human brains process music. That has made it difficult for researchers to distinguish between what is universally true and what is uniquely linked to Western music culture. But recent studies are revealing some of these distinctions by including more diverse music, study participants, and researchers from non-Western cultures. What music researchers have learned in this process also has implications for other fields that use similar research methods, such as behavioral science and neuroscience.

Western music includes classical, pop, rock, punk, and anything else that follows the same set of music theory rules about notes, chords, and rhythms. It’s a very broad category that covers anything from Mozart to Taylor Swift.

Some other music cultures throughout the world traditionally use different types of rhythms and notes. However, most music research is carried out in countries where people mainly listen to Western music. And if researchers themselves are only familiar with this type of music, that might also limit the way in which they work.

“If you are not interested in views from other cultures, you might not ask very interesting questions that come out of those musical traditions,” said neuroscientist and jazz musician Peter Vuust of Aarhus University. In 2022, Vuust and his colleagues reviewed what was known about music perception from the cognitive neuroscience literature. They found that, overall, studies showed that the brain’s ability to make predictions plays a role in the way we perceive and respond to music. When we listen to music, our brain predicts which notes or rhythms come next and responds based on whether those expectations are met. For example, if you only hear the first three lines of the “Happy Birthday” song, it sounds unfinished. The fourth and final line completes the song and meets our expectations of what should happen.

But Vuust noted that most existing studies only looked at Western music cultures, which could have affected the results. For example, the way that people connect musical harmonies with emotions is likely culturally dependent, so without data from other music cultures, it would be difficult to draw universal conclusions.

Western music is a very broad category that covers anything from Mozart to Taylor Swift.

A few months after that review appeared in Nature Reviews Neuroscience, the journal also published a correspondence between Vuust’s team and Keio University music researchers Patrick Savage and Shinya Fujii about how to reduce Western bias in the data.

For a study exploring the connections between music and speech, Savage — who is also now a Rutherford Discovery Fellow at the University of Auckland — realized that his own background would limit his ability to interpret recordings of global music samples. “It’s hard to know if what I’m hearing and perceiving is what the musicians themselves are hearing and perceiving,” he said. He knew that he would need help from musicians of many different backgrounds, including Indigenous communities. So Savage and Fujii collaborated with 73 other researchers from around the world who collectively spoke 55 different native languages. The music researchers all contributed their own knowledge and co-developed the study.

Nori Jacoby studies auditory perception at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics and carries out globally inclusive music research. Jacoby recently published a study with Josh McDermott of MIT and colleagues showing that rhythm perception is partly determined by the music culture that people are immersed in. “Everybody has very different experiences in their lifetime,” Jacoby said, and cross-cultural research helps scientists to understand how those experiences change perception.

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This study included people from non-Western music cultures. But the researchers found that simply including people from different countries was not enough. When the study compared students or online participants from different countries, the variation in their perception of rhythm patterns was much smaller than when the researchers included people outside of these groups. In fact, students and people who took online surveys were similar to U.S. residents in rhythm perception, perhaps due to more exposure to Western music.

This is an important observation, because music researchers are not the only ones who recruit study participants from student or online populations. It’s common practice in any field that relies on human volunteers.

Some areas of music research, such as Vuust’s, use neuroscience techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI, to measure brain activity. An additional challenge for these studies is that the availability of large MRI machines further restricts which participants are included. Vuust is currently collaborating with a research center in China to compare music perception in people from China and Denmark with a technique complementary to MRI that uses a large scanner. The work is “restricted to where the scanners are,” Vuust said.

Cross-cultural research helps scientists to understand how different experiences change perception.

Other analytical methods are more portable, such as electroencephalography, or EEG, which measures electrical activity in the brain via electrodes on the scalp, typically embedded in a cap worn tightly on the head. It’s used across different areas of research and health care, but there is room for improving inclusivity here as well. Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University developed a new EEG system with electrode hair clips rather than a cap, which can be used with Black hairstyles or hair types that did not fit the original cap. This allows the method to be used more widely.

Overall, researchers are becoming more mindful of broadening participation in research studies by considering who has been excluded and which knowledge is missing because of that. Savage and Jacoby both plan to continue working in large cross-cultural research collaborations to further explore how people interact with music.

But it’s important to note that being inclusive in any research related to human behavior or neuroscience is not simply about checking boxes to make sure all demographic groups are represented. It’s about finding variables, such as which types of music someone is familiar with, that can distinguish what is true for everyone from what is influenced by culture. And as music researchers have shown, including a wider variety of cultures can make research itself more meaningful and more representative of everyone.

Eva Amsen is a writer and science communicator focused on the culture of science and the common ground between science and the arts.

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Apple Music reveals more albums on its 100 Best Albums of all-time list. See numbers 90-81

The second set of albums on Apple Music's 100 Best Albums of all-time list were released Tuesday.

The list was chosen by Apple Music's team of experts, a group of artists, — including  Pharrell Williams  and  Maren Morris  — songwriters, producers, and industry professionals, according to the company. The first 10 albums were released Monday.

So far, the list has included six albums from the 2010's, four albums from the 2000's, five albums from the 1990's, one album from the 1980's and three albums from the 1970's.

The newest album from the list so far is "ASTROWORLD" by Travis Scott released in 2018 while the oldest is "I Put a Spell on You" by Nina Simone released in 1965.

Apple said in a Monday press release that the list is an "editorial statement" and that the list is a "love letter to the records that have shaped the world we live and listen in." The tech giant said that it did not factor in streaming statistics when compiling the list.

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Here are albums 90-81 on Apple Music's 100 Best Albums of all-time list:

Apple Music's Top 100 Albums 90-81

• 90: "Back in Black" - AC/DC
• 89: "The Fame Monster (Deluxe Edition)" - Lady Gaga
• 88: "I Put a Spell on You" - Nina Simone
• 87: "Blue Lines" - Massive Attack
• 86: "My Life" - Mary J. Blige
• 85: "Golden Hour" - Kacey Musgraves
• 84: "Doggystyle" - Snoop Dogg
• 83: "Horses" - Patti Smith
• 82: "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" - 50 Cent
• 81: "After the Gold Rush" - Neil Young

When will Apple Music release 80-71?

Apple Music will release new album rankings every day for the next ten days. Albums 80 to 71 are set to be released Wednesday at 12 p.m. ET.

The top 10 will be revealed on May 22 with a roundtable discussion between artists Nile Rodgers and Maggie Rogers as well as Apple Music's Lowe and Ebro Darden. Apple has also started a  website  to help fans keep track of the countdown.

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BottleRock Napa Valley uncorks music, food and drink festival for 11th year

Stevie Nicks is headlining day one of BottleRock 2024 in Napa Valley

NAPA, Calif. (KGO) -- In the North Bay, music fans from the Bay Area and beyond are headed to the Napa Valley for this year's BottleRock Music Festival. Some big names are headlining this year.

Bottlerock Napa Valley is pumping up the volume for the 11th year. Three days of music and fun across 26 acres, not to mention fresh pie for Barb Anderson from Half Moon Bay.

"Yummy," she said.

Barb says so far, this year's festival is hitting all the right notes.

"Good weather, good fun, good music, good food and Stevie Nicks," said Anderson.

Most of the coveted three-day wristband passes sold out weeks ago.

Inside, you can make a pit stop for a smart refreshing cocktail, like an Aperol Spritz if that's your thing.

Steps away the 'Culinary Garden' was exactly that glorious food, deliciousness all around.

We stopped by the Empress M booth, where Napa restaurant owner Margaret Wong is super excited to bring her cuisine to a new audience.

"This is a big deal, not just in Napa but this is worldwide, we're so proud to present our Empress M authentic Chinese food," said restaurateur Margaret Wong.

Natalie Carlis and husband Ronnie came from New Orleans to celebrate a Bottlerock birthday, fit for a queen.

"This is my first time here, I've talked to people about it, we took a bus ride here, they were telling me if you love music , you're going to love it," Natalie Carlis said.

"I was in Napa 15 years ago, now I'm back, I love what I see again," said Ronnie Carlis.

Promoters say 120,000 people are expected over three days. Stevie Nicks and Megan Thee Stallion are scheduled to perform Friday. Pearl Jam Saturday and Ed Sheeran on Sunday.

At last check, only general admission tickets for Friday are available for about $250.

Saturday and Sunday are sold out.

You can get more information on their website .

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Tina Turner, 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll', dies aged 83 in Switzerland

The singer began performing alongside ex-husband Ike Turner, who infamously subjected her to years of abuse; she resurrected her career from the doldrums in the early 1980s - taking it to new heights and becoming one of the world's biggest music stars.

By Dan Cairns, news reporter

Thursday 25 May 2023 13:34, UK

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Tina Turner - one of rock's great vocalists and most charismatic performers - has died aged 83.

Her spokesperson said: " Tina Turner , the 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll' died peacefully today at the age of 83 after a long illness in her home in Kusnacht near Zurich, Switzerland.

"With her, the world loses a music legend and a role model."

The US-born star was one of rock's iconic singers, known for her electric stage presence and hits including The Best, Proud Mary, Private Dancer and What's Love Got to Do With It.

Among the first to pay tribute were Sir Mick Jagger, Sir Elton John, Diana Ross, Bette Midler and Giorgio Armani.

"She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer," said Rolling Stones frontman Jagger.

"She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her."

More on Tina Turner

Diva V&A exhibition: Rihanna's iconic outfits to be showcased

How Tina Turner inspired domestic violence survivors - but never let abuse define her

The tragic story of Tina Turner's sons

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• Tina Turner

Sir Elton posted a picture of himself with Turner and said she was "untouchable" and a "total legend on record and on stage".

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elton John (@eltonjohn)

Turner previously had intestinal cancer and suffered a stroke, revealing in 2018 that her husband had donated a kidney to save her life as she contemplated assisted suicide.

Her manager of 30 years, Roger Davies, called her "a unique and remarkable force of nature with her strength, incredible energy and immense talent" and said he would miss her deeply.

Turner found fame in the 1960s alongside ex-husband Ike Turner, with the classics River Deep, Mountain High and Nutbush City Limits among their hits.

Read more: Simply The Best: Tina Turner in pictures The tragic story of Tina Turner's sons Beyonce and Oprah Winfrey lead tributes to 'beloved Queen'

The domestic abuse Ike subjected her to - and her struggle to break free - was documented in a 1993 film starring Angela Bassett, which won three Oscars.

Turner's life story was also immortalised in a popular West End show that is still running.

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The singer's popularity waned by the end of the 1970s and her days in the limelight appeared over, with Turner mainly playing the cabaret circuit as a heritage act.

However, her career was dramatically resurrected in 1983 when a cover of Al Green's Let's Stay Together became a huge hit.

Turner, then in her 40s, signed a new contract with Capitol Records which led to the Private Dancer album in 1984.

It went on to sell more than 10 million copies and established her as a mega-star.

The title track from Private Dancer, as well as What's Love Got to Do With It, and I Can't Stand the Rain were among the album's seven singles.

Her most well-known song - with its distinctive intro, steady build and powerful chorus - is probably The Best.

Released in 1989, part of the Foreign Affair album, it's actually a cover of a song by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler.

Proud Mary is also an established classic, with Turner performing up-tempo dance moves to its "rolling down the river" refrain well into her late 60s at live shows.

Tina Turner's most streamed songs in UK

• 1. The Best
• 2. What's Love Got To Do With It?
• 3. Proud Mary
• 4. What's Love Got To Do With It? (with Kygo)
• 5. River Deep Mountain High (with Ike Turner)
• 6. We Don't Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)
• 7. Nutbush City Limits (with Ike Turner)
• 8. Private Dancer
• 9. It's Only Love (with Bryan Adams)
• 10. Proud Mary (with Ike Turner)

Off the back of her comeback, there was also a foray into film alongside Mel Gibson in 1985's Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.

The movie spawned another hit, We Don't Need Another Hero.

Born Annie Anna Bullock in a segregated Tennessee hospital in November 1939, Turner became a Swiss citizen a decade ago.

Read more: Simply The Best: Tina Turner in pictures

She lived on a sprawling estate on Lake Zurich with her husband and former EMI record executive Erwin Bach, some 16 years her junior.

The couple met in 1985, with Turner once telling Oprah Winfrey it was love at first sight when he was sent to pick her up from an airport in Germany.

"He had the prettiest face. You could not miss it," she said.

"It was like saying, 'Where did he come from?' He was really that good looking. My heart went bu-bum. It means that a soul has met. My hands were shaking."

Turner had four children, two of them she adopted from Ike's first marriage.

Her eldest son, Craig Raymond Turner, who she had when she was 18, died in an apparent suicide five years ago.

The singer said that scattering his ashes in the sea off California was her "saddest moment as a mother".

She wrote on Twitter: "He was 59 when he died so tragically, but he will always be my baby."

Tragedy struck again in 2022 when her second son Ronnie died of cancer.

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