Science Quickly Why Do We Sing? Musicologists and Neuroscientists Seek an Answer
Jul 11, 2025
Allison Parshall, an associate mind and brain editor and music enthusiast, explores the evolutionary roots of singing in this engaging conversation. They discuss the cultural significance of singing across societies and delve into fascinating theories about why we sing. Parshall highlights research differentiating the brain's processing of speech and singing, revealing the neurobiological mechanisms involved. The episode also examines how singing fosters social bonds, offering therapeutic benefits and unifying experiences for individuals and communities alike.
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Personal Favorite Folk Songs
- Rachel Feltman shares her favorite folk song "In the Pines," connecting it to her childhood location.
- Allison Parshall shares a family lullaby and a traditional patriotic song as her favorite examples.
Global Study on Singing's Purpose
- Musicologists worldwide collected traditional songs to uncover why humans universally sing.
- Consistent singing styles across cultures suggest singing serves evolutionary purposes beyond spoken language.
Key Differences in Singing and Speech
- Singing differs from speech by being slower, higher pitched, and using stable pitches.
- These distinctions reflect how singing and speaking use our vocal apparatus differently.