Music taste is often regarded as a small factor in understanding one’s character, especially since it is not commonly a question asked in basic introductions. However, learning others’ tastes in music can provide a sneak peek into their lives.
Music works as a form of identity. The same way that fashion or word choice allow one to express themself, music speaks to one’s character. When getting to learn more about someone, asking questions relating to their music taste can reveal glimpses of their personality. Whether the response is song titles or artists people find themselves constantly listening to, interpersonal connections can be shaped by music. Although listening to music is something that may seem mundane as many people are tuned into some sort of beat playing through their headphones on the daily, it can actually serve to learn more about each other.
Ultimately, music taste does not define one’s whole personality but it will offer insights into how they see and experience the world. It speaks to their aesthetic choices and even their cultural background. When people share their music taste and introduce others to the songs they enjoy, they are sharing their lifestyle and other parts of themselves. A seemingly simple question about music taste can uncover more about a person than you may think.
Looking into the UCLA community, Bruins explore various genres of music depending on the vibe they want; whether it’s locking-in mode for finals, unwinding after a long day of classes or finding the perfect playlist for long drives.
Brian Son, a second-year music industry student, reveals that his favorite genre of music is house. He enjoys listening to artists like Zutomayo, Kenshi Yonezu and Silica Gel. Son’s range of music mostly consists of Japanese bands and songwriters.
He states how a lot of his current favorite hits were introduced to him by his friends, and that he finds himself connecting with people who share similar music tastes. His favorite songs include Korean R&B like “LOV3” by Sik-K, Moshpit, Bryan Chase and Okasian and “Ride” by Jayci yucca and dnss. Having known Son since my freshman year of college, I definitely see how his taste reflects his personality, as a bright, energetic person. He brings a sense of optimism into group settings. It’s rare to find Son sitting in a quiet spot without others surrounding him. He is always in a lively setting with lots of people and contributes greatly to lighting up the mood. If I had to guess Son’s overall music preferences when I first met him, I would have assumed house and Korean R&B matched his personality. Since these are two of his most listened-to genres, I see how music can represent character. Son is also active in UCLA cultural programs, as an active member of Kyodo Taiko and the Cultural Director of the Korean American Student Association, or KASA. Son’s personality, culture, and music preferences all connect clearly.
These connections are true for other students as well. Aden Lee, a third-year psychology and digital humanities student, loves listening to R&B and rap. He mentions niche, underground artists like Ryael and Sosocamo, favoring the chill, melodic atmosphere that it brings. When he wants to listen to something more energetic, Lee gears himself towards the more hype genres like Don Toliver or Travis Scott. He states how music occupies a large portion of his day, whether it is walking to classes, falling asleep or just doing chores around the house.
Lee finds shared music taste in friendships important, as you can understand someone more thoroughly from the music they appreciate most. As his close friend, I definitely feel that our friendship mostly consists of sharing similar music tastes and bonding through our favorite artists and songs. We love recapping new album drops and hosting listening parties with other friends. I see Lee as a friend who can enjoy both bustling, dynamic environments with big groups of people and the complete opposite in the calmness of working environments. He finds a lot of peace listening to underground, melodic, calm beats, especially when he is studying or resting. However, Lee is also capable of bringing a lot of energy into the atmosphere before an event or just hanging out with friends. I recognize that the duality in his personality is clearly exhibited through his appreciation for different music genres.
Ultimately, one’s music taste does not fully define someone’s identity — but it will speak to how they perceive and experience the world surrounding them. It gives voice to one’s personal aesthetic, emotional flows and cultural background. So the next time you meet someone new, ask them about their favorite songs and artists. It may reveal more about that person than you’d assume.
