LONDON (WTHR) - Getting a song stuck in your head can be absolutely maddening.
Now a new study explores why some songs, referred to as "earworms," tend to stick in our brains more than others. Researchers in the United Kingdom asked thousands of people to name their most frustrating earworms, then compared them to other songs playing on the radio.
The earworms tended to have higher beats per minute with generic melodies, but unique repetitions.
Experts say giving in and listening to the entire song can help stop it from looping in your brain. You can also try to add some variety to your playlist, ignore the song, turn to an engaging task to get your mind focused elsewhere, or even chew some gum.
According to the study from Goldsmith, University of London, here are the nine worst emails. (Watch the videos at your own risk - or have some gum ready!)
1. "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga
2. "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" by Kylie Minogue
3. "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey
4. "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye
5. "Moves Like Jagger" by Maroon 5
6. "California Gurls" by Katy Perry
7. "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen
8. "Alejandro" by Lady Gaga
9. "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga
Judging by this list, skipping Lady Gaga songs may also be a proven cure for avoiding earworms.
