According to researchers, music affects our mood in a variety of ways. But at the base of the phenomenon is rhythm and tone.
When we listen to a rhythm, our heart actually begins to synch with it. A slow heartbeat with a strong diastolic pressure tells our brain that something sad or depressing is occurring. Very fast beating is obviously related to excitement, whereas a dreamy rhythm with occasional upbeats can signify love or joy.
Tones are equally important as rhythm. A “major key” music piece signifies cheerful communication to our brain, while “minor key” pieces closely mirror the sighs and soft keenings of lamentation.
This all has a powerful effect on our brain, which directs our psyche to actually feel what’s being communicated to us.