The World in Six Songs

Daniel Levitin showcases his daring theory of “six songs,” illuminating how the brain evolved to play and listen to music in six fundamental forms—for knowledge, friendship, ceremony, joy, comfort, and love. Blending cutting-edge scientific findings with his own sometimes hilarious experiences as a musician and music-industry professional, Levitin’s sweeping study also incorporates wisdom gleaned from interviews with icons ranging from Sting and Paul Simon to Joni Mitchell, Willie Nelson, and David Byrne.