The wiggly wonder of music | Jacob Collier
Tuesday, 15 September 2026 · 1 min read · Listen to the episode ↗
In this episode, Jacob Collier delves into the concept of music as a universal language, emphasizing its emotional resonance and ability to navigate life's complexities. He introduces "the wiggle," a flexible quality in music that contrasts with rigidity, highlighting the importance of movement and fluidity in melodies. Collier also discusses the interplay of rhythm, time, and the body, drawing on Alan Watts' philosophy to inspire listeners to embrace the wiggly nature of both music and life.
Jacob Collier explores the idea of music as a universal language that resonates with everyone, highlighting its emotional power and its role in navigating life's complexities. He argues that music's ability to evoke feelings mirrors the unpredictable and nonlinear nature of human experiences.
Collier introduces the concept of "the wiggle," which he describes as a soft, flexible quality inherent in music. This notion stands in contrast to the rigidity of straight lines, suggesting that music is fundamentally about movement and fluidity. He emphasizes that a well-crafted melody can convey a story that deeply connects with listeners.
The discussion extends to the relationship between rhythm, time, and the physical body, indicating that these elements are crucial to the musical experience. Collier draws on the philosophy of Alan Watts, who posits that nature is devoid of straight lines, further supporting his argument for embracing the wiggly aspects of both music and life.
By the conclusion of his talk, Collier aims to inspire listeners to recognize and embrace their innate ability to appreciate and embody this wiggly nature. He encourages a deeper understanding of music's fluidity and its capacity to reflect the complexities of existence.
This summary was generated from the episode transcript and can contain mistakes.