Music psychologist Dr. Claire Renfrew developed a scientifically-backed Christmas car playlist designed to boost happiness during holiday drives. Her research identified Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” as the most scientifically perfect festive song. The happiness formula requires major keys, bright vocals, 100-140 BPM tempo, and catchy choruses. However, a survey of 2,000 Christmas-celebrating drivers found Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” makes 45% happiest. Other top scientific picks include “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano and “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms. FIAT commissioned the 25-track Spotify playlist following research showing 54% consider driving home for Christmas a season highlight, though 47% find it stressful. “Christmas songs can have a surprisingly powerful positive impact on us psychologically,” said Dr Renfrew. (Story URL)
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