Why do certain lyrics touch us so deeply? We studied 35 years of hits to find out

A growing body of research suggests listening to music has a positive impact on our health and wellbeing. We use music in at least seven different ways to regulate our emotions, including for entertainment, comfort or reflection. And it’s not just feelgood tracks; we also turn to music to sit with feelings of grief, sadness or frustration. One of the more powerful ways we connect with music is through song lyrics. Sometimes, the lyrics of a song can feel like they’re reaching into the very…