Music has been present in society for countless years, continuously evolving and growing with the development of humanity. The impact it has ranges from all ages and demographics. For most people, music is where they differ themselves from others.
Oswego East choir member Milo Perez elaborates on the physical impact music holds.
“I feel like the music you listen to also impacts the way you are, and the way you move throughout the world,” Perez said.
As many students enter high school, shifts begin in their personality, emotions, physical appearance, and overall maturity. It is crucial that the study of human nature that comes from what music people listen to is further explored.
Statistics show music significantly impacts mental health, with the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry reporting 71% of people find it important for their well-being and 78% say it helps them relax.
The halls of East are filled with students, staff, and faculty who have personal connections with music. When asked about what physical benefits music can have, Alexis Harlow, a science teacher at East, shared how she thinks music can allow her to have further relaxation.
“Music helps me shift my body language a lot of the time, from maybe like closed to open, while bringing me together,” Harlow said.
Many can connect to the relaxed state of mind Harlow speaks about, that comes from being in a musical environment.
Rap and hip-hop are the most popular genres in most high schools today, signifying more than mere musical preference. This study indicates a deep connection with the narratives and experiences conveyed through the music.
Some widely known rap and hip-hop artists that are contributing to the impact on high school students are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Drake, Latto, Glorilla, NBA Youngboy, etc.
Recently, a new generation of talent has presented itself, in which the genre they fall under is called “underground” music.
Oswego East student, Sudais Oyekanmi, expresses the contribution an underground artist has had on his life.
“My favorite underground artist is a 17-year-old from Chicago, named YFG Fatso, I feel like he really illustrates his experiences in his music, that the youth can relate to” Oyekanmi said.
Music helps students with managing stress and chilling out, since listening to music releases endorphins that either boost or relax your mood.
Many students bond with one another and connect through the use of music. Sharing favorite songs and artists, making playlists for and with each other, or recommending new genres of music.
Senior Kai Bugg, grew up around the influence of music and pop culture and has crucial opinions on the connectivity music brings.
“Music brings people together and helps people relate to each other. Music is the way we connect with the world at large, and I feel we’d be a lot less progressive as a society if we didn’t have music” Bugg said.
In the halls of high schools, music acts as a powerful influence, shaping the experiences of both students and staff. Whether it’s the rhythm of the school band, the shared excitement over a new album, or the focus that instrumental music brings, music weaves through the high school experience, enhancing the lives of everyone with its sound.
Written by seniors Micah Monahan and Max Jungels. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.