Have you ever listened to a song that just hits you with nostalgia?

Does it ever make you remember a fun day on the beach, your first interaction with a person, or remind you of a certain phase in your life?

Music is powerful. Not only is it something that has existed forever but it is inspiring, expressive, and the closest thing we have to convey our emotions. In fact, some songs are capable of reminding us of a certain time, place, or event.

Whenever I hear Drake’s song, “Best I Ever Had”, I remember my summer I spent with my close friends in Long Island. It was always playing on the radio at the time and hearing it six years later reminds me of the times where my friends and I would go hiking, eat at amazing restaurants, and play Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

To be honest, I never thought much of the song at the time but the nostalgia its given has made it important and memorable to me!

When I was sixteen and listened to the song, “The Beginning” by a band called One Ok Rock, I would reminisce of a summer filled with relaxation, hanging out with friends, and the binge-watching of shows on Netflix. In fact, any song I listen to from that band always traces back to some fun experience because I had such a strong impression from their first song and the nostalgia it's given me.

You may sometimes see your parents rocking out to a song that came out decades ago and to them, it’ll never get old. It could take them back to their younger years and remind them of some great experiences.

But what causes this?

Well, brain imaging studies show that some songs stimulate the brain and this releases a rush a dopamine, serotonin, oxycontin and other neurochemicals which essentially make us feel good. This keeps our mood up and can make us confident, optimistic, and/or happy!

The relationship between music and the nervous system has become so complex and developed that it even has its own scientific field: the cognitive neuroscience of music!

Studies have also revealed that songs from our childhoods hold the most strength in terms of nostalgia and happiness.

I would agree as my brain lights up from hearing Michael Jackson’s “Beat It”, any early 2000s Bollywood song, or the original Pokemon theme song! Those carefree years are a time that we all wish we could go back to.

Being a college student, there are infinite memories to be made and just as many songs to connect with. Decades from now I’ll fondly look back at these years and wish I could go back.

Luckily music will always be there to connect me.