Many cannabis users recognize the feeling: a favorite song suddenly seems to sound fuller, details stand out more, and the music evokes stronger emotions. Although this was long seen as a purely subjective experience, scientists are trying to better understand what happens in the brain while listening to music under the influence of cannabis.
THC affects the processing of sound
Researchers at the University of Toronto investigated how cannabis affects auditory perception. Their findings indicate that THC can temporarily alter the way the brain processes sound. As a result, subtle musical details, such as instruments, echoes, or rhythms, may stand out more strongly than normal.
According to the researchers, some participants experience music as more lively and emotional as a result than when they are sober.
Emotions play an important role
In addition to altered sound perception, cannabis also appears to influence the emotional experience of music. Users regularly report that songs feel more personal and that they feel more strongly connected to the music.
Scientists believe this is partly because THC affects brain areas involved in emotions, reward, and memory. As a result, a familiar song can suddenly trigger new memories or take on a deeper emotional charge.
Not everyone experiences the same thing.
The researchers emphasize that the effects vary greatly from person to person. Factors such as the amount of THC used, the cannabis strain, tolerance, and the environment all play a role.
There are also people who actually become more sensitive to loud noises or have difficulty concentrating on music. The experience is therefore not the same for everyone.
Need more research
Although the initial research results offer interesting insights, according to the scientists, more research is needed to understand exactly how cannabis affects auditory perception. The current studies are still relatively small and focus primarily on short-term effects.
However, the results align well with experiences that many users have been describing for years: that music is often perceived differently under the influence of cannabis than normal.
Ready to see how Snowflake works?
The fact that music can sound more intense under the influence of cannabis appears to be more than just a personal experience. New scientific research indicates that THC actually influences the way the brain processes sound and emotions. However, the strength of this effect varies from person to person and depends on various factors.
Source: pmc.ncbi
