Singer-songwriter Roseanne Cash, daughter of country music legend Johnny Cash, teamed up with the accomplished neuroscientist Dr. Daniel Levitin to discuss the relationship between music and the brain. They spoke at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts as part of the 2022-2033 Bryan Series. As promised, during the evening, Levitin and Cash discussed music, creativity, inspiration, and the brain science behind them. They also performed a few songs. Recently, Cash had hand surgery and was unable to play the guitar. Dr. Levitin filled in for her for the songs they sang. However, the crux of the presentation was discussing music and the brain and how and why those connections are so deep. Dr. Levitin reminded us of the complexity of the chemicals of the brain and the fact that we don’t know about many of them. He indicated that dopamine is overrated! Both Levitin and Cash are tremendously accomplished in their respective fields and equally passionate about music. Together, they made a great team and were noticeably down to earth. 

The above photo was taken at the book signing that took place after their talk.Dr. Levtin is handing Roseanne Cash a copy of her memoir sign as he prepares to sign a copy of his own book, “This is your Brain on Music.” Meanwhile, Roseanne is holding a copy of Ernest Thompson’s CD, “The Words I Heard.” Ernest, a singer-songwriter from Greensboro, just released his CD a week ago. Here’s hoping she has a listen and loves Ernest’s music as much as we do.

Happy Saturday!