Most people hear music. But few listen. 

Listening is an act of attention. It’s about leaning in — past the lyrics, past the beat — into the bones of the track. Start with the bassline. It’s the grounding force, the root chakra of a song. Is it pulsing, syncopated, melodic? The bass often tells the emotional truth — even when the lyrics lie. 

Now track the melody. Is it diatonic or modal? Repetitive or angular? Does it float above the changes, or lock in with the chords? A great melody doesn’t just sing — it dances with harmony. 

Speaking of which, listen to the harmonic movement. Is the progression functional, or does it surprise you? That unexpected minor iv chord in a major key — that’s emotional sleight of hand. 

Now zone in on the rhythm section. Is the groove behind the beat like D’Angelo? Pushed ahead like James Brown? Listen to how the hi-hats, snares, and ghost notes interact. This is where feel lives. 

Finally — listen for space. What’s not being played? Where is the track breathing? 

To listen like this is to see music in 3D. It sharpens your intuition, deepens your taste, and turns passive hearing into active artistry. 

So the next time you hit play — don’t just vibe. 

Transcribe the soul.​

Decode the conversation.​ 

And let the music teach you how to speak.