The research analyzed over 500 popular tracks from a Spotify driving playlist using several musical characteristics. It found that high BPM, danceability, energy, and loudness levels are likely culprits in driver distraction. This analysis was aimed at improving road safety by identifying potentially dangerous listening choices.
The research used an advanced Spotify API analysis tool to evaluate songs based on beats per minute (BPM), energy, danceability, and loudness. It highlighted "Dragostea Din Tei" by O-Zone as one of the most distracting songs due to its high BPM of 130 and danceability score of 81. The song also has a high-energy rating of 97, which could increase anxiety.
The most distracting songs to listen to while driving
| Rank | Title | Artist | Distraction Score % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dragostea Din Tei | O-Zone | 78.76 |
| 2 | Empire State Of Mind | JAY-Z | 78.37 |
| 3 | Pump It | Black Eyed Peas | 77.80 |
| 4 | Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' | Michael Jackson | 77.11 |
| 5 | All About That Bass | Meghan Trainor | 76.59 |
| 6 | Price Tag | Jessie J | 76.46 |
| 7 | Despacito - Remix | Luis Fonsi | 76.39 |
| 8 | Hey Baby (Radio Mix) | DJ Ötzi | 76.36 |
| 9 | The Lazy Song | Bruno Mars | 76.26 |
| 10 | Beat It | Michael Jackson | 76.13 |
Distracted driving is a significant concern, according to the Australian Automotive Association (AAA). They noted that it contributes to 16% of all serious casualty road crashes. A AAA representative stated, "Distraction causes increased reaction time (including braking), impairs a driver's ability to maintain speed and lane position, and impacts the operational efficiency of traffic."
Adrian Taylor, General Manager of General Insurance at Compare the Market Australia, emphasized the importance of music choices while driving. He advised motorists to select less distracting music to enhance safety and avoid higher insurance premiums.
On the flip side, the least distracting song identified was "Circle of Life" by Carmen Twillie. This track scored low in loudness, danceability, and energy making it safer for drivers.
The least distracting driving songs
| Rank | Title | Artist | Distraction Score % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Circle of Life | Carmen Twillie | 18.91 |
| 2 | Wonderful Tonight | Eric Clapton | 21.20 |
| 3 | Brothers In Arms | Dire Straits | 22.77 |
| 4 | We Are the World | U.S.A. For Africa | 24.93 |
| 5 | To Love Somebody | Bee Gees | 25.05 |
Source: Drive
