Experts reveal the happiest songs in the world – with Good Vibrations and YMCA at the top of the list
The happiest songs in the world, according to science: experts reveal the formula for the ultimate happy tunes – with Good Vibrations, Uptown Girl and YMCA topping the list
- Music psychologist Dr. Michael Bonshor has found the formula for a happy song
- The most uplifting tunes are at 137 bpm and have a regular rhythm and structure
- The song that best meets the requirements is ‘Good Vibrations’ by The Beach Boys
When you’re feeling down, nothing like a happy song to put a smile on your face.
Now a music psychologist has discovered the formula for the happiest songs in the world – and the melody that comes closest is ‘Good Vibrations’ by The Beach Boys.
Dr. Michael Bonshor of the University of Sheffield found that the most uplifting songs have a tempo of 137 beats per minute (bpm) and a regular verse-chorus-verse-chorus structure, but are peppered with unpredictable elements such as a key change or chords.
“We like seventh chords because they add interest,” said Dr. Bonshor.
“Regular chords use three notes, while seventh chords add an extra note that creates a sense of musical tension and relief.”
A music psychologist has discovered the formula for the happiest song in the world – and the next closest is The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations” (pictured)
| Rank | Title of the song | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pleasant ambience | The beach boys |
| 2 | I got you (I feel good) | James Brown |
| 3 | House of pleasure | Insanity |
| 4 | Let the party begin | P!nk |
| 5 | Uptown girl | Billy Joel |
| 6 | Sun shines | Bob Marly |
| 7 | I come around | The beach boys |
| 8 | YMCA | Village people |
| 9 | Waterloo | ABBA |
| 10 | September | Earth, Wind |
Second and third on the list of the world’s happiest songs are James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and Madness’ “House of Fun,” respectively.
Through his research, commissioned by yogurt brand Müllerlight, Dr. Bonshor discovered that songs are generally perceived as happier when they are in a major key.
“In addition, happy songs usually have a strong 1-2-1-2 beat so you can dance along,” he said.
‘A short introduction ensures that the song hits right away and there is no long build-up.
“We like high volume when it comes to how our upbeat songs are crafted, with notes played in a clear and springy way by instruments like trumpets or electric guitars rather than softer instruments.
“Finally a repetitive rhythm or guitar riff that people can cling to and become memorable is the icing on the cake.”
All these elements have been combined in a track called ‘The Lighter Note’, which has been scientifically proven to help break through the winter blues.
A survey of 2,000 Brits found that two-thirds listen to music to cheer them up, and 40 per cent cite cold weather and dark nights as a reason for needing it.
In fact, 71 percent said music is one of the most powerful influences on their mood.
Second and third on the list of the world’s happiest songs are James Brown’s “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and Madness’ “House of Fun,” respectively. Village People’s “YMCA” (left) placed eighth and Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl” (right) placed fifth
On average, the participants had eight songs that they couldn’t resist skipping, and they only had to listen to them for 14 seconds to get there.
Pop is considered the happiest genre by most respondents, but 69 percent also said they enjoy listening to different types of music.
When asked which song puts them in the best mood, those from the North East, South East, Wales and Northern Ireland all replied ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ by Queen.
ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen’ was considered the happiest song in Scotland, Yorkshire, the North West, East Midlands and East Anglia, according to the interactive map.
Music lovers in the South West and West Midlands were delighted by Katrina and the Waves’ ‘Walking on Sunshine’, and Londoners say Pharrell Williams’ ‘Happy’ is the happiest.