Bet you're not familiar with this one.

Around the 1920s, early skyscrapers started to form and come into fruition. For all humans alike, being in a skyscraper was a novel and frightening experience.

Elevators, relatively new technology at the time, were (and still are) an integral part of skyscrapers. These new technologies made most people afraid, anxious, and apprehensive. Yet, their daily jobs and responsibilities revolved around them getting to their office spaces. Therefore, the use of new-tech elevators, within first-of-its-kind skyscrapers, was imperative.

Enter, Muzak.

Founded in the early 20th century, Muzak Holdings LLC was primarily known for its production and distribution of background music. From offices to retail stores, hotels, and restaurants, Muzak curated music playlists. These were designed to enhance the atmosphere of these environments or to influence customer behaviour and employee productivity.

Enter, "elevator music".

Muzak began curating playlists to relax passengers who were anxious about elevator rides and tall skyscrapers. This music was also designed to provide a soothing background sound to alleviate the silence or mechanical noises in elevators.

While "elevator music" might be seen as bland today, its role in the evolution of "ambient and background music" is undeniable.

I’ve always noticed and been aware of the beauty of background music and music as a whole… But, ever since hearing this story, I’ve been captivated by its true power. Whether it's deep focus work, meditations, working out, showering, cooking, on a date, socializing with friends, or just reading, music is (or should be) present.

Besides, it also has the tremendous ability to shape and cultivate our experiences and emotions.

So why not use it to our advantage?

In contrast to those first exposed to elevators and skyscrapers, today's society has experienced the rise of modern tech like AI & social media. Amongst other things, this exposure has led to a generation struggling with unprecedented feelings of disconnection, overwhelm, and loneliness.

Besides mindlessly scrolling on different social media apps, many teens and young adults of today feel unheard and overlooked. Many often find themselves on paths of unproductivity and laziness, while others have never felt more stressed, judged, and unwell.

Amidst these challenges, including the ongoing climate crisis and global political turmoil, it's no surprise that pessimism and discouragement is on the rise.

Yet, I propose an unconventional solution.

As a young adult myself, faced with the same uncertainty, I've found a way that helps me genuinely uphold a more positive and optimistic outlook.

In a world where so much is beyond our control, why not embrace something that is within our reach and can enrich our lives?

In my eyes, the answer is clear.

Let’s dive in.

Why does it matter? And what can you do?

Reason: Self-Determination Theory

Minoring in Psychology was probably the most enriching part during my time at university.

Funnily enough, my first ever psychology class was about its history, leading me to almost discontinue and change minors. Lucky for me, no other minor option seemed appealing enough to replace the dullness and mundane nature of psychology's history.

So after a few missed lectures, I strolled back into that packed lecture hall relieved to find out that the history portion of the course was in fact, short (and done), moving on to more interesting topics.

Maybe if it wasn't for my decision to remain in that class, I may not be writing this for you folks today. Or maybe I would?

I'd like to think I wouldn't.

Anywho, alongside many other captivating topics learned throughout my 4 year study on human psychology, one of the concepts that remained with me post-university was "Self-Determination Theory".

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is essentially the psychological playbook for figuring out why you suddenly decide to clean your entire house when you have a looming deadline (like my former roommate used to do). It zooms in on the core aspects that drive our behaviour and satisfaction in life.

In other words, SDT sheds light on the key ingredients of human motivation and personality, specifically focusing on three fundamental psychological needs: Competence, Autonomy, and Relatedness, and how their fulfillment propels us to act and find joy in our actions.

1. Competence 

   That inner sense of being capable and effective, like when you successfully assemble an IKEA chair without leftover parts or master a new skill. It’s about feeling skilled and capable in your activities, giving you a sense of achievement and mastery.

   
   

2. Autonomy 

   This isn't about going rogue or living off-grid in a tent (though you do you). Instead, it is about having a sense of control over your actions and choices. Whether it's choosing your career path or how you spend your Saturday afternoon, autonomy is all about having control over your decisions.

   
   

3. Relatedness 

   The social butterfly of the trio, emphasizing our need to connect with others. It's the warm fuzzies you get from being part of a community, having good friends, or just knowing your barista remembers how you take your coffee.

Unfortunately for most, though, these needs are not being fulfilled.

The result?

A society that finds themselves more unmotivated, unengaged, and overall less satisfied with life.

Solution: Your Tunes - Anywhere, Anytime.

It all began in the early 2000s, right at the cusp of my birth, when music enthusiasts turned to torrents and peer-to-peer networks for illegal downloads, delighted by the thrill of accessing vast libraries of music (you know who you are).

Later on, legal downloads came to life with iTunes in 2003, offering a legitimate alternative.

But, the real game-changer arrived with Spotify in 2008, leading in the era of on-demand music streaming. Likewise, other services like SoundCloud (founded in 2007), and YouTube transformed how we experience music.

How does any of this relate to SDT, you ask?

Well, for starters. These platforms not only made music easily accessible but also introduced social elements, allowing users to:

• Share playlists

• Connect with fellow listeners

• Collaboratively curate music blends

• Discover new music

• Form new connections and friendships based on shared musical tastes

Amongst other wonderful things.

This shift turned music into a communal experience, connecting music listeners worldwide.

I'm sure you've started to connect the dots.

But in case you're still wondering, allow me to break it down for you.

Music has given us the opportunity to fulfill that sense of relatedness that we so eagerly crave.

• In its universal language, music bridges the gaps between individuals and cultures.
  

• When we share music, whether it's through attending concerts or discussing our favourite songs, we establish a connection with others on a deeply emotional level.

• This communal experience of music creates a sense of belonging and understanding, making us feel part of something larger than ourselves.

• Lyrics and melodies resonate with our personal experiences, allowing us to empathize with emotions and stories of others.

• In this way, music becomes a powerful tool for connecting with different types of people, fulfilling our inherent need for social connection and emotional intimacy.

In terms of nurturing our sense of competence, music also plays a pivotal role.

• Certain types and genres of music can enhance productivity and focus, thereby amplifying our sense of competence.
  

• Background music, especially instrumental pieces, can create an immersive environment conducive to deep work, helping to minimize distractions and maintain concentration.
  

• As we find ourselves completing tasks more efficiently and effectively with the aid of music, our sense of mastery over skills is heightened.
  

• This not only boosts our productivity but also reinforces our belief in our abilities. We begin to associate music with successful task completion, which in turn motivates us to tackle new challenges, continuously building on our competence.

And of course, music is indeed a profound expression of autonomy.

• It offers the freedom to choose what we listen to, how we interpret it, and how we let it influence our lives.

• This personalization of music allows us to express our unique identities and emotions, serving as a medium for self-exploration and personal growth.

• The act of creating or engaging with music on our own terms is empowering, as it reinforces our sense of agency and self-direction.

• Whether it's through composing, curating personal playlists, or just vibing, music allows us to make independent choices, reflecting our unique tastes and values.

"But, Julian, I satisfy my need for relatedness daily through interactions at work, university, or during social engagements..."

That is indeed valid. Some people do, in fact, find connection, competence, and autonomy outside of music.

BUT, it's important to consider that music's role in our lives can be both subtle and profound, often in ways we don't immediately recognize.

Even if you feel your psychological needs are met through other avenues, there can be moments of unexpected stress, loneliness, or a desire for a change in your routine.

It's in these moments that music can offer an additional layer of support.

For instance, let's take a personal example:

In my long-distance relationship, where physical presence is limited, music has become a key medium of communication and connection.

As many can imagine or relate to, there are moments of sadness, loneliness, or longing for your partner's physical presence. In these times, sharing music that mirrors my feelings or reminds me of us bridges that distance.

"Good for you. But, I'm not in a long-distance relationship."

Well, my friend, this approach isn't just limited to romantic relationships.

Music can serve as a powerful tool for anyone! Those that are feeling homesick or missing friends and family, for example.

It can allow you to communicate complex feelings in a more nuanced way, conveying sentiments that might be hard to articulate.

Not only that, but music transcends all boundaries - age, race, ethnicity, political beliefs, religion, gender or sexuality.

Truly.

One of my closest friends is a 58 year-old gay Republican man.

Hard pill to swallow for my uncle... (if you know of Carl, you know what I mean).

If you don't, send him an iMessage or WhatsApp text @ +1 514 574 0252.

He'll be very happy to engage with you on this matter.

But alas, "the power of music"

That's what I tell Carl.

And that's what I will keep on telling you folks, too.

Conclusion

As somebody enthralled by the musical experience, writing about it brings immense joy. However, it is much harder to write about the experience felt by others in today's climate.

I recognize my relative fortune in not facing many struggles that others endure. But, like many young individuals, I'm navigating my own path of uncertainty and decision-making.

During these times, I've found music to be a constant companion on my journey.

So, what can you do now?

If you don't already, consider incorporating music (in the background) into activities where you normally wouldn't.

Be conscious about it.

But don't put the volume too loud either. Around 15-20% (depending on your sound system) will suffice.

Notice how the experience itself is heightened simply by the addition of those background melodies and rhythms.

Notice how much more enjoyable your early morning cold shower or tedious night routine is thanks to Marvin Gaye.

Notice how your first date is way smoother, not to mention way less awkward, with the presence of some soft and soulful jazzy-house.

Sometimes, even playing the right tune may be enough to get someone to instantly fall in love with you...

Happened to me.

With my first year college roommate actually.

(By accident.)

So beware.

Next time you have some free time and seeking something new, try this:

• Browse pre-made and tailor-fit playlists for various occasions and activities.

What if you can't find the right one?

Try these:

• For your early mornings on the way to work or university:

  • Everybody Loves The Sunshine

• For your productive deep focus work blocks:

  • St Germain Lounge 

  • (New and updated one coming soon. Stay tuned.)

• For your work-outs:

  • Earth On Faya

• For your evening and night routines before tucking yourself into bed:

  • Cleo's Apartment

  • (Shoutout Hansan)

As you can see, there is no limit to how many playlists you can find or make.

The hard part may be actually finding or curating them for those specific activities.

But, fear not. That is where I come in.

I'd like to leave you all with something I stumbled upon while deciding what I was going to write about today:

“Music made me a better person by teaching me gratitude. Grace. Recognizing special people when you are lucky enough to find them and I found many.”

“Music helped me to never give up…even when I wanted to. To never squander something so rare and special. Music made me know myself. Like myself. And now…even when there's no music playing I can still hear it. It is a part of me that makes me the very best version of myself because it makes me feel alive.”

“When you have music inside of you, you are never alone.” 

“Music made me realize I will never be alone…and I share my music with others and if one person understands what I am saying…I passed along that magic. That is how music made me a better person.”

So just like Ellen M. Lerner from Quora so ellegantly put it:

Let the music guide you.

Whether it's in your career path, your relationships, or in the ritual for naming your houseplants.

Whatever it is.

Believe in the power of music.

And let the music guide you.

If you enjoyed that, I invite you to sign up now to be part of our community and receive future editions of this newsletter.

Thank you for reading.

Much love,

Julian

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If you prefer shorter-form writing, you'd like my X posts.