Music has always been important to the human race. Since very early in history music played a significant role in how people worshipped religiously as well as being part of social behavior. As technology has developed throughout history music has become more available and is part of almost every facet of our lives. With the advent of portable music players like the walkman as well as later technology such as the Ipod and other mp3 players, music can literally go anywhere we go. So with music being available to us from when we wake up until when we go to sleep and for some while they sleep, how are we affected by music?

Much of how we are affected depends on the music we choose to listen to. While up beat music can tend to cause us to have somewhat of an adrenaline boost, softer music can help us relax and calm us down. Many athletes choose to listen to music before a big event to help get themselves "pumped up" and ready for competition.

Even NBA all-star LeBron James has been known to get ready for the big game by listening to his favorite music in the locker room. Others prefer to listen to softer music at the end of a long day to help them unwind and sleep. Many also listen to soft classical music while they study. They feel that the music not only helps them to concentrate on the things they are learning, but that it can also help them recall the material that they have learned while taking an exam.

As mentioned before, music has been used socially for thousands of years. Our ancient ancestors were cutting a rug to reed flutes and tambourines whenever they had time for fun. Of course today it would seem very strange to not have music at parties or other social events.

Since the beginning of religion, music has played an important role in how people worship. Whether an individual is Christian, Muslim, or Jewish music is a big part of how one connects to not only their form of Deity, but also how they connect spiritually with fellow worshippers.

Music has been an effective marketing tool since the advent of media. When the public hears a jingle, the message or the product it represents resonates with the consumer long after the commercial is over. This may be especially true with children. When children hear a tune from an ad it will remind them about a certain product. It may be breakfast cereal or a particular toy. Undoubtedly, that child will be doing their own piece of marketing on behalf of that particular product. Music is a powerful medium and there really can be no doubt that music can affect us and even change our very way of life.