A new poll has found that music lovers are stuck in a loop, listening to the same tracks and albums over and over again. The survey of 2,000 people who describe themselves as serious music fans revealed that 70% listen to the same tracks and artists on repeat.
Repetitive Listening Habits
On average, these fans tune in to their favorite song 343 times a year and only have six artists in their rotation at any one time. More than a quarter of respondents admitted they are not keen on broadening their musical horizons and are content with their current loop.
Almost two-thirds of those surveyed listen to the same tracks because they 'like what they like,' while others find it comforting and nostalgic. Additionally, 36% said they are simply creatures of habit.
Impact on Album Listening
The research, commissioned by National Rail, also found that 41% of respondents have not listened to an album in full from start to finish in the past year, and one in ten claimed they have never done so. While many are happy with their current playlists, 65% expressed a desire to listen to new music, but 16% cited a lack of time as the biggest barrier to discovering new tunes.
Role of Festivals and Train Travel
Festivals play a vital role in helping fans expand their musical tastes, with 17% saying they are more likely to discover new music when attending one. The OnePoll study also found that 43% of festival goers will travel to events via train. During the journey, 32% will listen to artists they plan to see at the festival, while 19% will start planning their schedule. Notably, 36% of respondents are more likely to listen to new records while on the train compared to other modes of transport.
A spokesperson for National Rail said: 'A great summer music experience shouldn’t just start when you enter the venue, it begins the moment you start your journey. Train travel gives people valuable time back, creating the perfect opportunity to switch off, reset, and discover something new.'
