Popular Myths about Music: Where Are the Lies and Where Is the Truth?

Music is all around us from headphones on the road to the background tune at the store. We listen to it to be inspired, relax after a hard day and even change our mood. However, as in any other spheres, there are many myths surrounding music that are passed down from generation to generation. Some of them seem logical, others sound absurd, but one y or another they shape our perception of the musical world.

This process can be compared to the world of numismatics: for example, collectors use the Barber quarter value chart to determine the real value of some quarter examples. Without accurate data, it's easy to believe that any old coin is valuable, when in fact its value depends on condition, rarity, and demand. It's the same in music: myths give something undue importance, while people may not even be aware of the really interesting facts.

So today we are going to explore some of the most popular myths about music, find out where they came from, and find out what's really behind the common beliefs. Are you ready to destroy stereotypes? Then let us begin.

Myth 1: Classical Music Makes Children Smarter

This idea stemmed from a 1993 study called the Mozart Effect, which claimed that listening to Mozart could temporarily improve spatial reasoning. The media quickly overstated these results and turned them into a belief that classical music could boost children's IQs. Parents everywhere rushed to play symphonies for their little ones, and even some schools introduced classical music classes in hopes of cognitive benefits.

But does classical music really make kids smarter? Not really. While it can help focus and relax in the short term, there's no evidence that passive listening boosts IQ long-term. On the other hand, if you need to improve memory, problem solving, and motor skills in the long term, you may consider learning to play an instrument, as this is the best tool to achieve these goals.

Interestingly, many kindergartens still play classical music - not to boost intelligence, but to set a soothing tone. Studies show that slow classical music can reduce stress and improve concentration, so the truth is that such type of music is often used in relaxation therapy.

Tip: If you want music to benefit your child, encourage them to play an instrument. Even simple activities such as clapping or singing can help to develop cognitive skills and creativity.

Myth 2: Vinyl Sounds Better Than Digital Music

Vinyl records have made a huge comeback, with fans swearing by their "warm" and "authentic" sound. But is it really superior to digital music?

The myth that vinyl beats digital comes from the idea that analog recordings capture a more "natural" sound wave, while digital formats (like MP3s and streaming) compress audio, possibly lowering quality. While this was true in the early days of digital music, modern high-quality formats like FLAC and WAV can now reproduce sound with greater accuracy than vinyl.

One disadvantage of vinyl is its wear over time, as unfortunately all records with time collect dust, develop scratches, and get damaged with repeated plays, introducing noise and distortions. Digital files, however, stay clear and consistent, no matter how often you listen.

Nevertheless, vinyl has its own magic - the tactile sensations, the album covers and the ritual of inserting the needle. Many collectors seek nostalgia and immersion in the world of music rather than superior sound.

Tip: For top-notch sound quality, go for high-resolution digital formats or lossless streaming services like Tidal or Apple Music. But if you love the vinyl experience, enjoy it for the art and nostalgia, not because it’s a better format for sound.

Myth 3: Listening to Heavy Metal Makes You Aggressive

For decades, heavy metal was associated with anger, rebellion and even violence. The 1980s saw a wave of moral panic, as some people were sure that metal music provoked antisocial behavior, occult pursuits, and even pushed listeners into criminal activity. Unfortunately, prominent cases, for example, lawsuits against the bands Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne, with tragic incidents, only added to the genre's controversial reputation.

But does listening to heavy metal really make people more violent? Absolutely not. What's more, research suggests the opposite - a 2015 study of the University of Queensland showed that metal music helps listeners cope with negative emotions, reduce stress, and even achieve a sense of calm. Participants reported feeling happier and more relaxed after listening to their favorite metal songs.

Many metal fans use the genre as an emotional release, similar to how people turn to sad songs when experiencing heartache. The aggressive sound of heavy metal does not breed anger, but helps direct and release existing frustrations in a controlled and constructive way.

Tip: Don’t judge a person by their music taste. The next time you see a metalhead in a band T-shirt, remember - they might be one of the calmest, most emotionally balanced people in the room.

Myth 4: Only Naturally Talented People Can Sing

When it comes to singing, we all hear phrases like “you either have it or you don't.” Talent shows reinforce that idea giving the impression that great singers just “open up,” effortlessly hitting the high notes from birth. In fact, singing is a skill that can be practiced and improved just like any other ability.

Scientific research backs this up. The human voice is controlled by muscles, and like any other muscle group, it can be strengthened, improved and developed with practice. Many of the world's greatest singers, for example,  Frank Sinatra and Freddie Mercury, practiced vocals to improve their range, timbre and breath control. Even if a person has a naturally pleasant voice, without practice and technique they will never reach their full potential.

Why do some people seem to be “born with it”? While some people may have natural vocal talent (such as a well-developed ear or a large lung capacity), this is just a starting point. Without constant training, even the most gifted singers can develop bad habits that limit their progress. Many professional vocal coaches claim that someone with average natural ability but with strong discipline and training can outperform someone who relies only on raw talent.

Tip: Want to improve your singing voice? Start with basic breathing exercises to strengthen your diaphragm, practice scales to improve pitch accuracy, and record yourself on a tape recorder.

Myth 5: Music Collecting Is only About Vinyl and Tapes

When people think of music collectors, they often picture vinyl lovers carefully thumbing through crates of records or old-school people hoarding cassettes. While vinyl and cassettes are popular collectibles, music collecting goes far beyond these formats.

True music collectors cherish concert tickets, rare posters, commemorative autographs, vintage touring merchandise, and even special-edition music coins. In fact, some of the most valuable collectibles in music history have nothing to do with vinyl at all!

For example, in 2020, the UK's Royal Mint released Queen and David Bowie commemorative coins honoring the legacy of these legendary musicians. These collectible coins became highly sought after by numismatists and music lovers alike.

Tip: If you have coins or music-related memorabilia, you can use the Coin ID Scanner to verify authenticity and to determine their value. And remember, whether you have  a rare first edition record or a commemorative coin featuring your favorite artist, you can save music history in many unique ways.

Separating the Grain from the Tares

Myths about music are like old, worn-out records: they are passed down from generation to generation, sometimes distorting the truth. However, as with coin collecting, it's important to separate fact from fiction. After all, music is only what we hear, it is a way how we perceive sounds, moments and memories. So the next time you hear a popular myth, ask yourself: what's really behind the statement and then truly enjoy music without prejudice.