Music as a Coping Mechanism During Pandemics: From COVID-19 to Historical Crises
Throughout history, music has been more than just a form of entertainment; it has served as a coping mechanism during times of crisis. Pandemics, in particular, have shown how deeply intertwined music is with human emotion, survival, and community resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as global lockdowns isolated millions, music became an essential tool for emotional release, communication, and connection. But this isn’t the first time in history that societies have turned to music during pandemics. From the Black Plague to the Spanish Flu, each major health crisis has seen music emerge as a source of hope, reflection, and comfort. In this article, we will explore how music has been used during pandemics, including the recent COVID-19 crisis, to help people cope with fear, loss, and uncertainty.
- Historical Use of Music During Pandemics
The power of music during pandemics is not a modern phenomenon. During the Black Plague, for example, medieval songs and chants helped communities express their grief and pray for divine intervention. During the Spanish Flu in 1918, music provided an escape from the harsh realities of the pandemic. Churches, though often closed for services, played hymns through bells, and families gathered around pianos to play tunes that brought them comfort. These instances show that, even before digital technology, people found solace in music during pandemics. - Music During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Fast-forward to 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic created a unique global environment where people once again turned to music to cope. Platforms like Spotify saw a rise in curated “quarantine playlists,” featuring calming, uplifting, or nostalgic songs. Many artists, unable to tour, began live-streaming concerts from their homes, giving fans a sense of connection and normalcy. Some, like John Legend and Chris Martin, hosted virtual benefit concerts, raising funds for frontline workers while using their talents to bring comfort to listeners in isolation. - The Rise of Virtual Choirs and Digital Collaboration
With social distancing rules in place, many traditional forms of music-making were disrupted, leading to a surge in virtual choirs and online collaborations. Musicians from around the world, separated by distance and restrictions, started collaborating through digital platforms. For example, renowned composer Eric Whitacre led the creation of several virtual choirs, where thousands of singers from across the globe contributed their voices to create collective, digital performances. This movement demonstrated how technology could unite people and allow them to continue participating in collective music-making, even during a global pandemic. - Therapeutic Effects of Music
Beyond entertainment, music played a significant role in mental health during the pandemic. Various studies have shown that listening to music can reduce stress and anxiety, which spiked during the pandemic due to uncertainty, health fears, and isolation. Playlists specifically designed to promote relaxation or focus became increasingly popular, especially as people worked from home or managed the challenges of remote learning. In hospitals, music therapy was also used to aid COVID-19 patients’ recovery, both mentally and emotionally, helping them stay positive even in difficult times. - The Role of Music in Social Movements
The COVID-19 pandemic also coincided with significant social movements, including Black Lives Matter protests, which used music as a rallying cry for change. Songs like “Fight the Power” by Public Enemy or new compositions by contemporary artists became anthems for those seeking justice and equality during the pandemic. This fusion of music and activism highlighted how, even in times of illness and despair, music can serve as a powerful medium for both personal healing and societal change. - The Long-Term Impact of Music During Pandemics
The widespread use of music during the COVID-19 pandemic will likely have long-term effects on both the music industry and how we, as a society, value music. Artists and audiences alike have discovered new ways to engage with music, from livestream concerts to interactive fan experiences. Virtual platforms, such as YouTube and Instagram Live, offered a way to keep musicians and listeners connected, proving that the music industry can evolve even in the most difficult circumstances. Moving forward, the lessons learned during this pandemic may redefine how we experience and create music, with a growing appreciation for its therapeutic and unifying qualities during times of crisis.
Conclusion
Music during pandemics has consistently proven to be a crucial coping mechanism, helping individuals and communities navigate periods of uncertainty, fear, and isolation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as in past health crises, music provided a much-needed outlet for expression, unity, and hope. Whether through virtual performances, curated playlists, or the power of old classics, music has been a lifeline for many. As we emerge from this pandemic, the importance of music in our daily lives has become more evident than ever. It not only brings joy but also offers therapeutic benefits, helping people process trauma, connect with others, and find solace in difficult times. In future crises, music will undoubtedly continue to be a source of strength, comfort, and resilience.
