What are earworms, the songs we just can't get out of our heads?

About this episode

Have you ever had a song stuck in your head for hours or even days? One that pops up randomly and repeats itself over and over again? Let’s take a moment to explore what earworms are, what they have in common, what causes them, and how they can affect our health. An earworm is a catchy tune that invades your brain and refuses to leave. The term actually comes from the German word ohrwurm. According to ABC.net.au, it was first used in English by author Desmond Bagley, in his 1978 novel Flyaway.  What do earworm songs have in common ? What causes an earworm song to come into your head ? How can we get rid of an earworm song if we don't want it in our head? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions ! To listen to the latest episodes, click here : What is 12-3-30, the viral Tiktok workout? Where does Father's Day come from? Why do we get pins and needles? A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices