An earworm is a slang term for the type of hook that seems to work its way deep into your brain and put down roots.
Strictly speaking, an earworm is a psychological phenomenon where a musical figure persists in the mind long after the listening experience is over.
An earworm is a psychological phenomenon where a musical figure persists in the mind long after the listening experience is over.
It’s a common occurrence that’s mostly harmless, but it can still cause frustration in severe cases.
Some listeners complain that earworm hooks are distracting and unwelcome, but most songwriters would be happy to write something with such a powerful effect.
In fact, writing hooks is a central part of a songwriter’s craft—especially for topliners and professional songwriters.