Song lyrics can be a lifeline in times of crisis

Free Malaysia Today

27-04-2025

In times of crisis, music can be a precious source of solace. (Envato Elements pic)
PARIS : In times of crisis, people often seek distractions or escapism. Some meditate, while others exercise or cook. But for many, it's music that becomes a refuge. And at the heart of this, it's not so much melodies that leave their mark, but lyrics.
An Israeli study, published in the journal Frontiers of Psychology, reveals how song lyrics can play a decisive role in how we weather emotional storms.
The research was conducted by Professors Renana Peres and Adi Levy of the Hebrew University Business School, in collaboration with Roni Granot of the Department of Musicology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Their analysis looked at over 2,800 'coping songs' chosen by people in 11 countries during Covid-19 lockdown.
When asked about their experiences, they explained how certain lyrics echoed their emotions, sometimes better than their own words.
When anguish took over, many turned to songs about loss. On the other hand, to soothe loneliness, songs celebrating human bonds and belonging took over.
In times of crisis, music becomes a precious source of comfort.
'This research offers a new perspective on how people use music not just for entertainment, but as a meaningful tool for emotional self-regulation.
'Lyrics embedded in music often give voice to emotions that are difficult to express – grief, remembrance, and hope among them,' explained Roni Granot, quoted in an article featured on the Medical Xpress website.
And contrary to all expectations, it's not the musical aspects such as tempo, tonality or harmony that most influence our feelings. It's really the lyrics that move people, that resonate with people, that accompany people through these difficult times. The right words at the right time can become a lifeline.
This study is the first to empirically establish a link between lyrical content and emotional regulation strategies. For Professor Renana Peres, it's a lever for action.
'At a time when many are dealing with personal and collective trauma, understanding the emotional power of lyrics can help us better support mental health – both individually and as a society,' Peres said.
More than ever, music is becoming a genuine source of mental health support.
New approaches are emerging, such as new music therapy techniques, playlists designed to accompany people's moods, and digital tools designed to promote well-being.
All these initiatives highlight the power of song lyrics in echoing people's emotions. Because in moments of fragility, it's often words, more than melodies, that keep people company.