Listening to music with others could extend your healthy life, according to neuroscientist Dr Julia Jones, also known as Dr Rock. New research suggests that shared live music experiences may boost mental health and social connections, as experts warn that Brits are increasingly listening to music alone.
Survey reveals solitary listening habits
A survey of 2,000 adults who regularly listen to music found that music lovers spend 379 hours a year listening alone – accounting for two thirds of all their listening time. The experience has become increasingly solitary, with 11% admitting they never listen to music in the company of others.
Most people listen to tracks through headphones or while driving, rather than as part of a shared experience – in fact, just 8% of all music listening takes place at live events. Yet those who do attend live music events discover four times as many new artists as those who never go.
Nostalgia for communal music in the 1990s
Over-35s believe music was a far more communal experience back in the 1990s. Many are nostalgic for the days before streaming platforms and algorithms took over, with 30% saying that discovering new music was more enjoyable then than it is today.
The research revealed that during that era, 33% listened to music with others far more frequently, and 24% fondly recall making and sharing mixtapes with friends.
Neuroscientist highlights benefits of live music
Greene King commissioned the study as part of its Live at Your Local campaign. Supported by McFly star Danny Jones, the initiative will see 900 artists perform at free live music events in pubs throughout the UK this summer.
Neuroscientist Dr Julia Jones said: "There's growing evidence that shared live music experiences can extend your healthy life." She explained that live performances strengthen memory, emotional connection and social bonding. "The sensory effect of your entire body being immersed in sound vibrations generated by a live musician performing in front of you has deep impact and can create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Solo listening simply cannot match this neural effect."
Live music attendance in the UK
While just 34% of Brits currently attend gigs or concerts, the findings suggest those who do reap long-lasting rewards. The study, conducted through OnePoll, revealed that 32% said their most memorable musical experiences took place in person, rather than through streaming or recorded music.
Additionally, 31% said live music helps them feel more present, 29% believe it lifts their mood more than listening at home, and a quarter (25%) said enjoying music alongside others makes them feel more connected to their friends.
Grassroots venues and artist discovery
More than a quarter (26%) said watching an artist perform at a small or grassroots venue could turn them into a lifelong fan – almost on a par with the influence of a major arena show (29%), and far exceeding the impact of an algorithmic recommendation (5%).
Following a live performance, 31% went on to see the same artist again, 29% became a fan, 27% recommended the artist to someone else, and more than a quarter (27%) discovered a track that went on to become one of their all-time favourites.
Cost barriers and campaign response
Two thirds (64%) feel that major concerts have become prohibitively expensive, with more than a quarter (27%) on the lookout for more affordable entertainment options this summer.
Andrew Gallagher, from Greene King pubs, said: "It's clear from the research that many people want to break out of their musical comfort zones and enjoy more shared experiences, but cost and accessibility can often stand in the way."
"That's exactly why we've created Live at Your Local. By bringing free live performances to Greene King pubs across the UK, we're making it easier for people to discover new artists, support grassroots talent and experience the atmosphere and excitement that only live music can create."
"Whether it's finding your next favourite band or simply enjoying a great night out with friends, we hope our events help bring people back together through music."
