As frequent as earworms may be, however, what causes them is still a mystery. This makes tracking them in a scientific setting nearly impossible. “Research suggests that earworms could have something to do with how music affects the brain’s motor cortex.” (Science Friday) Once you've heard a song four or five times, the sound of one note reminds you of the next note. “There are general patterns of characteristics for songs that frequently get stuck.” (Science Friday) They found that earworm songs tend to have notes with longer durations but smaller differences in pitch. Despite the complaints of sufferers, however, the majority of our earworms are actually somewhat enjoyable or neutral experiences, according to Williamson.
