This Is What It Sounds Like: What the Music You Love Says About You

Daniel Levitin, a legendary record producer turned brain scientist, explores the science and soul of music in his book "This Is Your Brain on Music." He explains why we fall in love with music, the benefits of being musical, and how to be a better listener. The book is a blend of studio stories and fascinating neuroscience, and is considered a crucial addition to the canon of music must-reads.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Extraordinary Insights about Music, Emotion, and the Brain...An Instant Classic




Daniel Levitin, the renowned record producer-turned-brain scientist, delves into the captivating world of music, offering extraordinary insights into its emotional power and its impact on the human brain. In his book, This Is Your Brain on Music, Levitin takes readers on a journey into the science and soul of music, providing an instant classic that will resonate with music enthusiasts and scholars alike.




The book begins with Levitin's personal journey, tracing his humble beginnings as an audio tech in Los Angeles to his remarkable ascent as Prince's chief engineer for Purple Rain and one of the most successful female record producers of all time. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of music and the unwavering dedication required to excel in the music industry.




As a cognitive neuroscience professor, Dr. Susan Rogers takes readers behind the scenes of record-making, illuminating the intricate processes and techniques that shape the sound of music. She explains that everyone possesses a unique "listener profile," which influences their emotional response to music. By actively listening and developing musical self-awareness, readers can enhance their musical experiences and deepen their connections with artists.


Levitin and Rogers' book is a lively and illuminating exploration of music's profound effects on the human mind and soul. It refreshes playlists, deepens connections with artists, and challenges readers to think about the records that define them. With its provocative blend of studio stories and fascinating neuroscience, This Is Your Brain on Music is a crucial addition to the canon of music must-reads, fizzing with energy and insight.


Whether you are a music lover, a student of musicology, or simply someone curious about the mysteries of the human brain, this book will captivate and inspire you. It is a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions, shape memories, and connect people on a profound level. So, grab a copy, sit back, and let the music take you on a journey that will forever change the way you listen to and appreciate the world around you.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529114010