The Psychology Behind What You Hear on the Radio

If you've spent any time listening to the radio in the past twenty years, you probably figured that the music that was played was just a random sampling of popular songs.

Back in the day, disc jockeys would curate the music you'd hear based on their whims, tastes, and music knowledge. But more recently, much of it has become automated. One thing that has remained the same is that there's actually a great deal of psychology involved in how a radio station is programmed.

They look at male and female voices, the tempo, when the song was released, and various other elements. It's so important that radio companies actually spend quite a bit of money for consulting firms to help them curate the music.

Why Radio Stations Play More Nostalgia During Political Years

I'm going to pull back the curtain for a minute and share one of the most interesting bits of radio psychology that our company filled us in on.

During heavy political years, you might notice more nostalgia songs in the playlist. This isn't an accident.

There tends to be a lot of uncertainty in political years, mainly presidential election years, and folks overall tend to feel a bit uneasy. But when you hear music from your teen years, you feel more comfortable, confident, and just overall happier.

For me, the music of Dave Matthews Band, The Counting Crows, Alanis Morissette, The Gin Blossoms, Incubus, Matchbox 20, and No Doubt are like a warm blanket on a cool night. They make me so happy.

What I wouldn't give to be transported back in time to the Nineties to relive some of my high school days when my biggest responsibility was to get a good grade on my math tests and show up for my after-school job once or twice a week.

WGBF-FM logo
Get our free mobile app
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store

You Can Actually Visit a 90s Video Store Bar in Nashville

I can't go back. But I can pop into the coolest little 90s-inspired pop-up speakeasy in Nashville called Back to the Video Store.

Hidden inside Sonny's in Germantown, you can get 90s-inspired drinks, marvel at the 90s-inspired decor, and, of course, rock out to your favorite 90s jams.

Now, this isn't like a regular bar where you go in and hang out as long as you want. Because the pop-up has been sold out at various places across the country, it is a curated, timed event. Your ticket includes 90 minutes of open seating plus a cocktail.

What You'll Find at Back to the Video Store
*Movie and TV photo ops from iconic scenes
*Retro arcade games to play all night
*Throwback decor with lava lamps and nostalgic 90s vibes
*Cocktails themed after your favorite films

The website describes it as a totally immersive experience.

You’ll enter this hidden Video Store Bar and transport back to a simpler time - where Friday nights at the video store was an experience! From lava lamps to pog-playing stations & very memorable TV/Film scenes turned into photo moments, there is no shortage of things to blast you back in time!

Choose your movie-themed cocktails & libations of the night as you browse the video store shelves. All of the themed sections (Romance, Horror, Comedy) have been replaced with new sections such as “Cocktails, “Beer”, “Wine”, “Combos”, and the only difference here, is instead of pulling down a movie, now your selection off the wall, will be how you choose your drinks. There’s no cooler way to spend the night with your friends.

 

Back to the Video Store Nashville Tickets and Details

Tickets start at $18.20 per person, including fees, and must be purchased in advance. You'll pick your date and time and head on in. This event is 21+.

The Clubhouse at Sonny's Patio Pub
1322 6th Ave N
Nashville, TN 37208

It will only be available through September 19, so if you want to check it out, you need to hurry! After that, it will move to another part of the country.

READ MORE: CLICK HERE FOR MORE TRI-STATE TRAVEL CONTENT

See More Photos Inside Back to the Video Store

Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store
Back to the Video Store

 

Here's What Back-to-School Looked Like in the 90s

If you grew up in the Tri-State, your backpack probably had more than school supplies. Here are some nostalgic things you might find in a 90s kid's backpack.

Gallery Credit: Ashley S

20 Nostalgic Field Day Memories You Had Forgotten Until Now

If you’re a Generation X or Millennial like me, chances are Field Day was one of those school events you either counted down the days for or secretly hoped would get rained out. For some of us, it was the Olympics of elementary school. For others, it was a full day of trying not to get picked last for relay teams.

I actually have some really fun memories from Field Day. There were races, games, popsicles, and that feeling that summer break was practically standing around the corner waiting for us.

Sure, there was a little sweat, some healthy competition, and maybe a bruised ego after getting absolutely smoked in a three-legged race, but it built character... right?

And just like gym class, our teachers really did their best to make it fun and give us memories that stuck. Mission accomplished. This is all in good fun, of course, and hopefully future generations get to experience the joy of sprinting across a field with an egg balanced on a spoon and acting like the fate of the world depends on it.

Gallery Credit: Ashley Sollars

More From WGBF-FM