So, I invaded my wife’s 35th reunion last weekend at Cornell.
First off, the campus itself is brilliant—when you picture a classic, majestic “university” in your mind, this is the exact place you’re imagining. Quite different from my small (tiny) Mid-West College in Wisconsin.
I also happened to be the only non-Big Red spouse in our immediate circle. And this is totally fine. I’ve met most of Kate’s friends over the years, and we get along just great. Though, to be fair, they probably get the perfect amount of Chris Bro. Which is to say: a little. A weekend with Chris Bro is more than enough.
Every night of the reunion, they set up three massive tents in a row. One had a DJ, one had karaoke, and one had a live band. You can probably guess where I wanted to spend—and did spend—most of my time. Live music is just good for your soul.
But on the final night, the group migrated over to the DJ tent. Now, these were objectively very good DJs. It’s not my scene. The whole setup just isn’t for me. For starters, I can’t stand when a DJ wants to “show off” by playing maybe 30 seconds of a track before abruptly mixing into 30 seconds of the next one. Let the song breathe! On top of that, I didn’t know about 90% of what they were spinning.
Whenever I say something like that, people inevitably look at me a wee bit shocked (understandably) and say: Surely, Chris, you know more music than that.
Nope. I listen to more music than most - and it still shocks Kate when a massive hit comes on and I say: I’ve never heard this song in my life.
She’ll look at me like I’ve been living under a rock and say: But Chris, it’s just in the world.
Well, it’s not in my world.
Case in point: the DJ finally dropped Run-D.M.C.’s “It’s Tricky.” My ears perked up. I actually started to move toward the dancing circle. But just as the chorus ended (That was all he played too. Just the chorus.) — right as I was literally about to unlock my hips and commit to the groove—bam. The DJ blended it right into some modern pop song I’d never heard before. Moment ruined.
Or when he combined the guitar intro to GnR’s “Sweat Child O Mine” with the lyrics to The Killer’s “Mr Brightside.” Yes, a fun trick. Sure. But I’d rather have them both played separately please. I definitely would have been jumping around! And yet I couldn’t get past the combo - and my own feeling of wanting both on their own. Yes - it’s all on me. I can guarantee no one else in that tent even though in that way…in that moment. My musical curse.
So, I did what any self-respecting rock guy would do. I grabbed a beer, stood on the perimeter, and watched. And I was completely fine with that.
The next morning at our final breakfast, everyone was sitting around reminiscing about the weekend. The topic of the previous night’s dancing came up. I ended up having this absolutely brilliant chat over my morning coffee with an equally brilliant lady whom I had really just met that weekend. Hear me out. If Cornell is the ideal picture of a university, this woman is the definition of lovely on every level. When I grow up and become a true person, she is exactly who I hope to become.
We got into this fascinating conversation about the act of dancing and how it helps a person on so many different levels—mentally, physically, and socially. As we were talking, a lightbulb went off. I looked at her and said: You just gave me the exact topic for my next music newsletter.
I think she thought me crazy. Definitely thinking: aren’t you the guy that literally didn’t dance all night? How (or why?) would you write about dancing?
Which brings us to today.What happens to us when we move to music. And yes, I’m writing this from the perspective of a self-proclaimed non-dancer. Okay, maybe not a total non-dancer... just someone who doesn’t dance to modern pop, and whose hips strictly require more than 30 seconds of Run-D.M.C. to actually unlock.
Here is why “dancing it out” is actually the ultimate workout for your body and your brain…
Why Dancing is the Ultimate Workout
If the thought of a treadmill makes you want to cry, it’s time to trade the gym for the “groove.”
Let’s be clear: You do not need to be a “dancer” to do this. In fact, this is for those of us who feel a bit like a startled giraffe when the beat drops. Whether you are attempting a sleek studio routine or just violently flailing your limbs in the kitchen, you are engaging in a “successive series of purposeful rhythmic movements”—and your brain is loving every second of it.
Here is why “dancing it out” is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind:
The Physical Payoff (Stealth Cardio)
Heart & Muscle: Dancing is a full-body aerobic workout that lowers the risk of heart disease while building functional strength and core stability.
Accessibility for Any Body: Unlike high-tech gym equipment, dance has zero barriers. No matter your age or mobility level, you can scale the intensity. As long as there’s music, you can move.
The Mental Health “High”
Stomping Out Depression & Anxiety: Dancing releases a chemical cocktail of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin while actively lowering cortisol (the stress hormone). It’s an effective way to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in both youth and older adults.
The “Groove” Factor: “High groove” music—rhythms that induce a pleasurable desire to move—triggers instant joy. This isn’t just exercise; it’s a “cathartic release” that lets you move without boundaries or expectations.
Confidence & Self-Trust: For kids and adults alike, dance increases self-esteem and self-expression. It’s a safe space to find your rhythm and trust your own body.
The Science of Social Bonding (my brilliant new friend had a lot to say about this aspect)
Group Therapy: Much of the mood-boosting benefit of dance comes from the interaction. Whether it’s partner dancing or a group class, the shared experience reduces feelings of isolation and increases interpersonal skills.
Cultural Connection: Beyond fitness, dance is a powerful cultural touchstone. It tells stories, expresses joy, and connects us to our heritage and community.
Synchronized Empathy: When you match your movements to others or the music, you are practicing a form of empathy. This synchronization encourages social bonding and feelings of interconnectedness.
A Total Brain Overhaul
Dancing is neurologically demanding. Crazy as that seems it is. It forces the sensory, motor, cognitive, social, and emotional areas of your brain to “talk” to one another.
Neural Plasticity: Because it’s so mentally taxing, dance helps create new neural pathways. Long-term training can actually change your brain structure, particularly in areas associated with motor and auditory functions.
Fighting Neurodegenerative Disorders: Dance therapy has massive potential to counteract age-related cognitive decline. For those with Parkinson’s, music acts as an “external metronome” to help with gait and speech. For example, the firm steps of the Tango can help prevent “freezing” episodes and strengthen brain networks for movement.
Dementia Prevention: Studies show that dance can protect the brain’s “white matter,” which usually breaks down as we age. It’s essentially a shield against neurodegeneration.
The Bottom Line:
You don’t need a specific body type or a professional background. You just need a song with a good “groove.” Dancing develops relationships, builds a stronger brain, and increases feelings of togetherness.
So, Call up your friends - the club or lock your bedroom door, find a playlist that makes you want to move, and go bust a move—it’s officially doctor-recommended.
The Final Track
So, will you catch me tearing up a crowded dance floor to a 30-second snippet of a Top 40 remix anytime soon? Absolutely not. My hips remain firmly locked until a full rock groove or a classic bassline gives them permission to move.
But sitting at that breakfast table at Cornell, listening to a brilliant new friend break down why those sweaty, chaotic hours under the tent mattered so much, it clicked for me. Dance isn’t about perfection, and it certainly isn’t about genetics. It’s an evolutionary cheat code for a healthier, happier life. It forces our brains to rewrite their own pathways, protects our minds as we age, and glues us together socially in a way that regular exercise just can’t replicate.
You don’t need to be a professional dancer to get the benefits of dance. You just have to be willing to look a little ridiculous for the sake of your longevity, your brain, and your happiness.
The next time a song with a high groove comes on, don’t overthink it. Just move.
Find a track that lets the music actually breathe, and just move. Your brain, your heart, and your soul will thank you for it.
What’s the one song that guarantees you’ll unlock your hips and hit the floor? Leave a comment and let me know—I might even add it to my world.
Welcome in. It’s week 1049 of NEXT and we are back chasing that song becomes your NEXT, new favorite song. No predictable playlists - just an absolute beast of a lineup today. We are pulling together historic live tracks, sleek electronic currents, and raw alternative debuts. Crank the speakers, the search party starts right now.
Stephen Wilson Jr – “Preacher’s Kid”
Raw, heavy, and unapologetically honest storytelling. It hits you with a gritty, deep-south alternative edge that feels like a heavy rain on dusty ground, tackling heritage and heart with massive emotional weight. And damn he does not hold back. Sounds like: Chris Stapleton and Nirvana.
seeTrees – “Easy Times”
If you need a track that feels like the perfect soundtrack for a long, late-night drive with the windows down, this is it. It’s got a beautiful, rolling indie groove that completely wraps around you and refuses to rush. Sounds like: Real Estate and The War on Drugs.
Dea Matrona – “Magic Spell”
Get ready to be completely mesmerized by some incredible guitar-driven rock and roll coming straight out of Ireland. This duo brings a fierce, vintage swagger and infectious hooks that will have you under their spell before the first chorus hits. Sounds like: Fleetwood Mac and Royal Blood.
Dea Matrona is Latin for “Divine Mother Goddess”. In ancient Celtic mythology and religion, she was a revered mother goddess associated with fertility, rivers, and life-giving forces.
Blanket Approval – “Falling Away”
This is a brilliant slice of modern alternative rock that relies on a driving bassline and a tight, nervous energy. It slowly builds its way up into a massive sonic landscape that demands you turn the volume up a notch. Sounds like: Interpol and Editors.
Girl Tones – “Stubborn Mouth”
An absolute jolt of pure, unadulterated garage-rock adrenaline. It’s raw, it’s fuzzy, and it carries the kind of fierce, independent attitude that reminds you exactly why rock and roll will never die. Sounds like: The Kills and Deap Vally.
Family Stereo – “Fault Lies”
A gorgeous, sun-drenched indie-pop anthem that instantly gives your ears a reason to smile. It balances crisp harmonies with a bouncing rhythm section, making it the perfect track to shake off the weight of the week. Sounds like: Vampire Weekend and Phoenix.
Improvement Movement – “Still Cold”
For the lovers of the beautifully eccentric and the delightfully retro, this track is your playground. It blends a laid-back, late-sixties psychedelic groove with sharp, modern indie-pop sensibilities for a totally unique vibe. Sounds like: The Flaming Lips and Mac DeMarco.
Mod Lang – “In The Morning”
A sharp, soft, jangly piece of indie guitar rock that hits the ground running - slowly. It might get stuck in your head for days. Sounds like: Guided By Voices and The Kinks.
Spit! – “Dreams”
Don’t let the name fool you—this track is an absolute dreamscape of sound. It layers shimmering guitars and ethereal vocals over a driving beat, creating a beautiful wall of alternative noise that completely pulls you in. Sounds like: Wolf Alice and Smashing Pumpkins.
PS: Found this band during our reunion trip (see above). Kate was on the air at WVBR and the radio station had an open house. We stopped by to say hi. Shockingly music came up - and how I host a new music show. One of the DJs said well we just released a local band’s EP. Would you listen? I always do - with the caveat that I might not play it.
The Who – “Behind Blue Eyes (Live)”
We are diving back into rock history with a soaring, emotional live rendition of one of the greatest anthems ever written. Hearing Roger and Pete channel this kind of legendary passion on stage is absolute proof that live music is good for your soul. Sounds like: Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.”
My New Band Believe – “In The Blink of an Eye”
A massive, anthemic burst of modern rock energy that hits you like a freight train. It’s sharp, it’s powerful, and it serves as a driving reminder of just how fast things can change when the right melody takes over. Sounds like: Black Midi (which makes sense) and Geese (No Goose).
Hurry – “Moving After You”
Power-pop right here. From Philly. It’s got the big, fuzzy guitars, the vocal harmonies, and a bittersweet melodic hooks that feel like an instant classic from the very first second it leaves the speakers. Sounds like: The Posies and Yo La Tengo.
Kiwi Jr – “Blowin’ Up”
Get ready for a fast-paced, brilliant burst of angular indie rock. This track is packed to the brim with clever lyrics, a driving post-punk rhythm, and a sarcastic wit that makes it an absolute blast to listen to. Sounds like: Pavement and Parquet Courts.
Ace Monroe – “Half Past Youth”
We are closing out this week’s set with a massive, swaggering dose of dirty, blues-soaked arena rock. This track hits with a classic stomp and a dual-guitar attack that proves the old-school rock spirit is alive, well, and kicking. Sounds like: Aerosmith and Greta Van Fleet.
That’s the final note of this week’s show. Did we make your ears smile today? I’ll leave you with a bit of wisdom from Tom Petty: Music is the only magic I still believe in. It doesn’t trick you, it’s true.
Thank you for navigating the noise and championing new music. Remember, the underground only works if we back the artists, so share the noise and support the bands. I’m Chris Bro, stay curious, and I’ll see you next time. Turn it up!
and remember if you love someone hug them right now
Back in the day I had a friend who said “anyone who doesn’t like to dance should go to a Dead show. It’s basically a remedial dance class for wallflowers.”
The Romantics “ What I Like About You” gets me going every time. Shaking it with claps, jumps and “Hey’s” !