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Hoda Khalil, Postdoctoral Research Associate and Contract Instructor, Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University

Can big data really predict what makes a song popular?

Elements affecting the popularity of songs change over time and should be continuously explored, say data science researchers. (Shutterstock)

Music is part of our lives in different ways. We listen to it on our commutes and it resounds through shopping centres. Some of us seek live music at concerts, festivals and shows or rely on music to set the tone and mood of our days.

While we might understand the genres or songs we appreciate, it’s not clear precisely why a certain song is more appealing or popular. Perhaps the lyrics speak to an experience? Perhaps the energy makes it appealing? These questions are important to answer for music industry professionals, and analyzing data is a key part of this.

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