Why Do We Get ‘The Chills’ When Listening to Music?

When you listen to a song that makes you feel really happy or excited, your brain sends signals that make your skin tingle and your hairs stand up. It’s like when you get goosebumps from a scary movie, but with music! This is called the chills, and it feels amazing because your brain is giving you a little reward for enjoying something so special.

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Examples

  1. A kid gets goosebumps when hearing the first note of their favorite cartoon theme song.
  2. Someone shivers while listening to a soft lullaby that reminds them of childhood.
  3. A person’s hairs stand up when they hear a sudden, loud explosion in an action movie soundtrack.

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