Music: Universal language, connects us all

Aaron Anthony ( YolyBoy ), Entertainment & Society Editor

From the cries of ancient flutes to the basslines of Afrobeats echoing in Lagos streets today, music has always been more than sound.

It is a form of expression, a therapy for the soul, a record of history, and a cultural glue that binds generations.

Across civilizations, music has mirrored the mood, the message, and the
movement of society.

Music dates back to prehistoric times, when early humans used rhythmic sounds: clapping, stones, and primitive flutes to communicate emotions and unity.

– In ancient Africa, music was rooted in spirituality and storytelling. Drums, chants, and songs accompanied births, festivals, and funerals.

– In classical civilizations, music was tied to poetry, religion, and healing.

– With time, instruments evolved from guitars, pianos, horns, and digital synths, and so did the genre diversity.

Today, technology and globalization have reshaped music into a powerful social and economic force.

The Components of Music
A song isn’t just sound, it’s a blend of elements that give it structure and emotion:
Melody – The tune or main theme you hum along to.
Rhythm – The beat or tempo that drives the groove.
Harmony – The layering of chords and background support.
Lyrics – The words that tell a story or convey emotion.
Timbre (Tone Color) – The unique quality of sound (e.g., the difference between a
saxophone and a violin).
Dynamics – How loud or soft different parts are played.
Form – The structure (verse, chorus, bridge, etc.)

Each song is a crafted experience, carefully arranged to connect with listeners physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Music comes in many forms, and each genre carries its own identity:
Genre
Purpose
Classical
Elevation of mind, cultural tradition, academic study Afrobeats.

Dance, storytelling, celebration, identity
Hip-hop.
Expression, protest, street narrative
Gospel
Worship, encouragement, and soul healing
Jazz
Relaxation, sophistication, emotional depth
Pop
Mainstream entertainment, commercial appeal
Reggae
Consciousness, love, resistance
Folk/Traditional Heritage preservation, communal bonding.

These genres are not just sounds; they are tools of influence, used in therapy, religion, advertising, education, and activism.

Music is everywhere in our homes, cars, gyms, schools, churches, clubs, and hearts.

It can calm stress, elevate energy, enhance productivity, or spark deep thought.

From lullabies to national anthems, music gives meaning to moments.

Society speaks: Voices from the Streets

To understand how music connects with real people,

Five Nigerians from different walks of life around Lagos spoke with The Mirror Newspaper

Tosin Angel, Fashion Designer (Lagos), said, “I love Afrobeats because it makes me feel alive and proud of my culture.”
Music helps me stay motivated while sewing. I listen to Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy. They blend tradition and modernity in such a unique way.

Kelechi Emeka, School Teacher (Lagos)
“Gospel is my lifeline. It keeps me anchored in faith and hope.”

I play it during early morning prep and after classes. My top artists are: Nathaniel Bassey, Mercy
Chinwo and Dunsin Oyekan.

Abdul AK, Tech Entrepreneur (Lagos)
“I’m a Hip-hop and Trap fan, it sharpens my hustle mindset.”

I often listen while working on code. J. Cole, Olamide, and Ladipoe are my favorites because they blend real talk with creativity.

Aunty Rose, Trader (Lagos)
“I enjoy highlife and old-school reggae, it’s music with depth.”

It helps me forget the stress of the market. I love Flavour, Lucky Dube, and Onyeka Onwenu because they sing with their hearts.

Zainab Dele, University Student (Lagos)
“R&B is my comfort zone. It lets me feel things I can’t say.” I listen during study hours or when I’m heartbroken. My go-to artists are Tems, Wizkid (when
he’s soft), and SZA..

Music is not just entertainment. It’s a mirror of society, a language of unity, a diary of emotion, and a soundtrack of culture.

Whether sung in church, rapped in the street, or played through headphones at 2 a.m., music remains the one thing we all understand differently, yet deeply.