🎵 What Makes a Song Catchy? The Psychology of Earworms

Ever had a song stuck in your head all day? That’s no accident — it’s science.

Catchy songs, also known as earworms, hook your brain with specific musical tricks. But what exactly makes them so hard to forget?

🧠 1. Repetition is Key

🎶 Songs like “Baby Shark” or “Shape of You” use repeated melodies and lyrics.
Why it works: Repetition makes patterns easy to remember — and the brain loves patterns.

🎼 2. Simple, Predictable Melodies

Catchy songs usually stay within a small vocal range and follow expected chord progressions.
Think “Twinkle Twinkle” or “Let It Go” — predictable, yet satisfying.

📈 3. Emotional or Surprise Triggers

A sudden pitch change or unexpected beat drop (like in “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish) grabs attention.
Surprise = memorability.

🔄 4. Easy to Sing or Hum

If you can hum it after one listen, it’s more likely to loop in your brain.
Hooks are often crafted to be easy and rhythmic — making singalongs irresistible.

💡 5. Personal Relevance or Repetition in Environment

Songs tied to memories, emotions, or ones you hear often (like in reels, stores, or TV) tend to “stick” more.