Music On Your Brain

 

I stumbled upon a great interview with Johnny Marr who continues to be revered as a ground-breaking guitarist who has played with a host of great artists. Check it out:

https://youtu.be/NjY2O92ByNw  “Johnny Marr Talks Guitars & A Life In Music”. Johnny Marr has a great book out called ‘Marr’s Guitars’ about his guitar collection and the role they have played in his songwriting.  Marr's Guitars available here.

Johnny also speaks about his parents’ musical tastes and growing up listening lots of records.

Personally, I grew up around a lot of musical diversity, and lived in dread and anticipation of being forced to ‘do a turn’ – i.e sing for the grown-ups at a succession of Christmas parties.  Two of my favourite artists, Johnny Marr and Declan MacManus (AkA ‘Elvis Costello) also had very musical backgrounds.

I’ve come to the conclusion that hearing music in one's formative years can have profound neurological benefits, shaping cognitive and emotional development.

Johnny Marr and Elvis Costello, both celebrated musicians, were exposed to music at a young age, and their experiences illustrate the positive impact of such early exposure.

Neuroscientific research has demonstrated that listening to music in childhood can enhance cognitive abilities, such as language acquisition and mathematical skills. It stimulates the brain's neural pathways, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities. Early musical exposure can lead to improved memory, attention, and overall cognitive function, which can have a lasting impact on a person's academic and professional success.

Johnny Marr’s early immersion in music likely played a significant role in his exceptional guitar skills and songwriting abilities. His mastery of complex melodies and unique guitar tones may be attributed, in part, to his childhood musical experiences.

Similarly, Elvis Costello's musical parent, who was a jazz musician, introduced him to a rich tapestry of musical styles. This diverse exposure could have influenced his eclectic songwriting and versatility as an artist.

I would suggest that the brain's ability to adapt to different musical genres and patterns during childhood and youth lays a foundation for open-mindedness and creativity in adulthood.

And don’t forget that music, particularly during adolescence, has a profound emotional impact. It can help young individuals navigate their feelings and develop emotional intelligence. This early exposure to music can influence their emotional regulation and social interactions, fostering healthier relationships and improved mental well-being.

The neurological benefits of hearing music as a young person are extensive. Early musical exposure can enhance cognitive skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence, setting the stage for a lifetime of artistic expression and intellectual growth.

Johnny Marr and Elvis Costello's experiences underscore the transformative effects of a musical upbringing, shaping them into the accomplished musicians they are today.

 Marr's Guitars available here.