Shades Of Psych

It’s still October, which means it’s still Black History Month and I thought I’d share my post from on discussing the ‘Psychology of Caribbean Music.’

Calypso, Soca and Reggae are genre’s of music that originate from the Caribbean. Themes of resilience, strength, pride, celebration and collective identity are often seen throughout these genres. 

Calypso – The voice of truth

Calypso music uses story telling and humour to demonstrate resilience and to speak the truth. Calypso consistently highlights the theme of resilience through wit. This helps provide a safe emotional outlet for those facing difficulties.

Calypso music usually operates at upbeat tempos of 120-160 BPM – these are sounds that help stimulate the reward system, helping us release more dopamine.

Soca – The therapy of joy

Soca music promotes an energy of celebration and a desire to unify Caribbean culture. Themes of freedom are found within soca due to its development within Calypso. Soca acts as the face of resistance as lyrics often represent breaking societal norms and mockery of oppressive systems.

Soca music also operates at an upbeat of 120-160 BPM which helps release dopamine. Soca music also uses call and response that helps reinforce the importance of community. 

Reggae – The Rhythm of Reflection 

Reggae music is found rooted within Rastafarian philosophy, it demonstrates resilience to oppression, peace and social consciousness. Its often heard to heavily focus on injustice, with the aim to highlight real moral clarity and societal issues.

Reggae music operates at slower tempos like 70-90 BPM which mirrors a resting heart rate. The off beat rhythm helps promote states of relaxation, and enhances feelings of being grounded. 

The social psychology

Caribbean music not only tells powerful stories but also demonstrates so much resilience and pride. It also helps benefit the mood as both the body and mind are able to connect and feel in unity. Caribbean music helps promote community, as the music often promotes a feeling of nostalgia tied to freedom, family or festive events. This strengthening emotional continuity. 

Caribbean music builds identity, community and hope.

Caribbean music isn’t just rhythm its resilience, reclamation and release. 

Calypso has taught us how to tell stories and learn how to laugh in the face of struggle. 

Soca has shown up the power of unity and what it means to form a community. 

Reggae has allowed us to stay grounded and mindful even when faced with injustice. 

Caribbean music offers the body and mind so much, whilst holding down our communities and reminding us to stay empowered.

To celebrate Caribbean music is to celebrate the ancestors who used it to rebel and celebrate before us.

Listen to our Caribbean Psychology playlist here: Caribbean Psychology Spotify Playlist