We already know music can change our mood, bring back memories, and connect us to specific moments in our lives. New Australian research suggests those connections may also have implications for brain health as we age.
A Monash University-led study examined more than 10,800 Australians aged 70 and older. Researchers found that people who reported always listening to music had a 39 percent lower incidence of dementia compared with those who listened less often.
Frequent instrument playing was associated with a 35 percent lower risk of dementia. People who regularly listened to music and played an instrument also showed lower rates of dementia and cognitive impairment.
That does not mean music prevents dementia. The study was observational, so researchers found an association rather than proving cause and effect. Still, the results add another reason to keep music in our lives.
Your playlist may be doing more than you realize.
Brandon J. Marks Sings the National Anthem Live at Constellation Field
Watch Brandon J. Marks deliver a powerful live performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the Sugar Land Space Cowboys game at Constellation Field.
Pre-Order "BrandonLand" CD + CD Player
Streaming makes music convenient, but physical media is finding a new audience among listeners who want something tangible to collect, display, and enjoy. In 2025, Americans purchased 46.8 million vinyl records and 29.5 million CDs, according to the Recording Industry Association of America.
Now you can be part of that movement by preordering Brandon J. Marks’ BrandonLand CD and player pack. For $50 plus $6 shipping, you will receive the album and a portable CD player, giving you everything needed to enjoy Brandon’s music wherever you go.
Already have a CD player? Individual copies of BrandonLand are available for $20 with free shipping.
Preorder your copy, support an independent Houston artist, and experience BrandonLand as a complete album you can hold, play, and keep.
DJ Alkemy's Old School Hip Hop Mix
Rediscover hip-hop’s golden era with DJ Alkemy’s Old School Hip Hop Mix. Packed with classic beats, memorable rhymes, and the energy that shaped the culture, this mix will keep your body moving.
Also, check out the graphic below and share your thoughts.
Music Instrument Drive
Thank you to everyone who donated to the Mocha Man Music Musical Instrument Drive. Your generosity will help young people in Houston learn, create, and express themselves through music.
A special thank you to Kala Brand Music for donating a large box of ukuleles. We would also like to recognize our community partner, the Community Music Center of Houston (CMCH), which will distribute the donated instruments to students.
Mocha Man Music Events
The Soul Sessions brings live vocals and turntable artistry together in one seamless night of music.
Brandon J. Marks delivers soul-stirring covers and original songs while DJ Alkemy weaves classic and contemporary tracks around every performance, moving from 80s R&B to today's sound without missing a beat.
It all happens inside The Gite Gallery, an intimate listening room surrounded by African art.
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