
Yanren Kikon
TaFMA, Niuland District Partner
The Positive and Negative Impact of Music
Music is often called the universal language, transcending borders, cultures, and backgrounds. It has an incredible ability to evoke emotions, bring people together, and influence thoughts and behaviors. For youth, music plays a vital role in emotional, cognitive, and social development, offering a space for creativity, emotional expression, and connection. However, like any powerful medium, music has both positive and negative impacts, shaping young minds in profound ways.
The Positive Impact of Music
One of the most significant benefits of music is its ability to foster creativity. When young people engage with music, whether by listening, composing, or playing an instrument, it stimulates their imagination and encourages exploration. This creative expression helps youth better understand themselves and the world around them. Music serves as an artistic outlet, enabling individuals to channel their thoughts and emotions into something meaningful.
Music is also a powerful form of emotional expression. It has a unique way of resonating with people during both joyful and challenging times. Many turn to music for comfort, finding solace in lyrics and melodies that echo their feelings.
Additionally, music fosters social bonding. Shared experiences, such as attending concerts, singing along to favorite songs, or even simply listening together, help build strong connections and friendships. These experiences not only enhance social skills but also instill a sense of belonging.
Research has shown that learning to play an instrument improves memory, attention span, and problem-solving abilities. Studies indicate that students involved in music education perform better academically, particularly in subjects like math and language arts. The discipline required to learn an instrument translates into valuable life skills, such as patience and perseverance.
Moreover, music has therapeutic benefits. It is known to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and uplift moods. Music therapy is widely used to support mental health, helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
The Dark Side: Negative Impacts of Music
Despite its numerous benefits, music also has a darker side. The growing influence of mainstream music has introduced explicit lyrics and aggressive imagery, often glorifying violence, substance abuse, and materialism.
One significant concern is the hypersexualization present in many music videos. The way artists present themselves and the provocative content they portray can shape young viewers' perceptions of beauty, self-worth, and relationships. Overexposure to such imagery can lead to unrealistic expectations, causing youth to equate self-value with appearance or social status.
Furthermore, the pressure to conform to idealized images of success, wealth, and happiness can have detrimental effects on mental health. Music videos often depict luxurious lifestyles, creating unrealistic expectations and fostering feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety among youth. When young people compare themselves to these unattainable standards, they may struggle with their own self-worth.
Another alarming issue is the normalization of reckless behavior, such as substance abuse and violence. Many popular songs glamorize excessive drinking, drug use, and reckless partying, portraying them as symbols of success and enjoyment. This can lead to increased experimentation among youth, putting them at risk of addiction and other harmful consequences.
The Influence of Global Trends on Nagaland’s Youth
Nagaland has a rich musical heritage, with traditional folk music and indigenous genres playing an integral role in its cultural identity. However, with the advent of digital platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify, global music trends, particularly Western pop, rap, and hip-hop have gained immense popularity among Naga youth.
While exposure to international music provides a sense of connection to the wider world, it also brings challenges. Many young people in Nagaland imitate the behaviors, attitudes, and fashion styles seen in international music videos without fully grasping the implications. The glamorization of materialism and reckless lifestyles may lead youth to adopt values that conflict with their own cultural heritage and traditions.
Consequences of Blind Imitation
1. Loss of Cultural Identity – As youth increasingly embrace global music trends, they risk disconnecting from their cultural roots. Traditional Naga music, once a cornerstone of identity, is now overshadowed by foreign influences. The fading significance of indigenous music threatens the preservation of the region’s unique artistic heritage.
2. Mental Health Issues – The portrayal of unattainable beauty standards and material success in mainstream music can lead to anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction with one's own life. Constant exposure to idealized images can make young people feel that they are not enough, fueling self-doubt and insecurity.
3. Risky Behaviors – Music videos that depict substance abuse and reckless partying as glamorous can influence youth to experiment with alcohol and drugs. The desire to emulate popular artists can lead to decisions that have long-term consequences on health and well-being.
4. Rejection of Family and Community Values – As youth prioritize foreign influences, they may drift away from traditional family values, leading to generational conflicts and a loss of guidance. The strong communal bonds that once defined Naga society may weaken under the pressures of individualism promoted by modern music culture.
The Reality Behind the Glamour
Having been involved in Nagaland’s music scene for over two decades, both as a musician and in management, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles behind the glamour. While the public sees fame, success, and luxury, the reality often includes stress, substance abuse, and mental health challenges. The music industry is highly demanding, requiring artists to maintain an image that may not always reflect their true selves. The pressure to stay relevant and successful often takes a toll on mental and emotional well-being.
The industry, both globally and locally, needs greater awareness and support to address these challenges. Artists should be encouraged to prioritize their well-being over maintaining an unrealistic image. More conversations around mental health in the music industry can help create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future musicians.
To create a balanced and healthier music environment, it is essential to foster a culture that values artistic expression while prioritizing well-being. Encouraging responsible consumption of music, promoting critical thinking about media influences, and offering support to struggling artists can make a significant difference.
Nagaland has a unique opportunity to build a more sustainable music industry by celebrating its traditional musical heritage while embracing modern influences mindfully. By supporting local artists, creating platforms for indigenous music, and promoting mental health initiatives, we can ensure that music remains a positive force in the lives of young people.
Music is a powerful medium that can inspire, heal, and connect people. However, it also carries the responsibility of maintaining a balance between artistic freedom and personal well-being. Through mindful engagement, we can harness the positive impact of music while mitigating its potential harms, creating a more informed and empowered generation of music lovers.