Evaluating the three-network theory of creativity: Effects of music listening on resting state EEG

Abstract

Research evidences the ability of music listening to transiently improve performance on creative cognition. However, the mechanism for cognitive improvements as a result of music listening is still contested. Research has asserted that three networks neatly map onto the well-known theory of blind variation and selective retention (BVRT); the default mode, cognitive control, and salience networks (SNs). This study investigates the activation in these networks after participants listen to music that has previously been shown to increase creative cognition. Using 128-channel high-density array, we measured resting state electroencephalography (EEG) in 26 participants before and after listening to the 2011 single “Can’t Hold Us.” Findings demonstrate that activation is increased in the default mode, cognitive control, and SNs, as indicated by increases in spectral frequency power for whole-brain beta, parietal theta, and whole-brain gamma. Here, we find support for the idea that music might facilitate creative cognition by activating networks deemed important in the creative process, providing novel methodology for investigating network activation in a creative cognition framework using resting state EEG.