From Brian Eno to Etta James: How Music Can Amplify Psychedelic Experience

Music has long been associated with expanded states of consciousness, from the thrum of ancient rituals and the plaintive notes of nocturnal birds to the folk rock of Woodstock and the magnetic rhythms of trance. 

It tends to dissolve the analytical part of the mind, creating space for something deeper to emerge. As the lovable and crotchety English composer Thomas Beecham once remarked, “music releases us from the tyranny of conscious thought.”

And in the context of psilocybin therapy, I can think of no better tonic to nudge us toward the sublime.  

Music as an Indispensable Tool

Music consistently helps clients connect with the medicine more profoundly. Research backs this up. Studies have shown that music plays a central role in therapeutic psilocybin experiences, fostering emotional breakthroughs and supporting moments of clarity. This study published in Psychopharmacology emphasizes that music interacts with the unique emotional landscapes of the journey, forming a dynamic framework for introspection.

The Phases of the Journey: A Musical Blueprint

In my practice, I sync the music to the different phases of the journey. Here’s how I think about it:

• Phase I: Prologue
  We begin gently, easing into the experience with folk, classical, or acoustic guitar. These familiar, grounding melodies create a sense of safety and openness.

• Phase II: The Descent
  As the medicine takes hold, the music mirrors the natural world—soft, organic sounds like flowing water or birdsong encourage relaxation and connection to the earth.

• Phase III: The Peak
  As the journey intensifies, instruments like sound bowls and percussion emerge. These primal sounds propel us forward down the path of healing.

• Phase IV: Catharsis
  As the intensity ebbs, slower ambient tones usher in emotional release, allowing for reflection and healing.

• Phase V: Uplift
  This is where playful, lilting melodies bring joy and celebration; I jokingly refer to this as the butterscotch and unicorns portion of the soundtrack..

• Phase VI: The Return
  Finally, lyrical tracks—like classic jazz or soul—welcome the client back to the ordinary world.

Rules! I Hate Rules !

In regard to music, I have a few Draconian :) rules. I generally discourage personal playlists. When clients play DJ, it can prevent them from dropping in and immersing themselves in a non-ordinary state of consciousness. Likewise, our favorite songs often carry a litany of meanings and memories that may not directly align with a client's intentions. However, I work with clients beforehand to identify music that means a lot to them, so they’re available if the need arises during the session. 

That said, nothing is ever black and white. I had a client who wanted to listen to music they had composed. I enthusiastically consented and those songs led to some very important realizations about self-love and creativity.

The End is the Beginning 

I’ve found the last phase of the journey—Phase VI—to be profoundly rich. Some clients get chatty around this time as the intensity of the journey has begun to wane, but if we lean in, we can bask in this cathartic light and uncover some poignant lessons.

As this phase begins, I generally toss my clients some headphones and encourage them to lay back, relax and enjoy the magic carpet ride. 

Music as a Bridge to Healing

To me, music is far more than an accessory in psilocybin therapy. It’s a guide, a mirror, and an anchor. Whether through the hum of a sound bowl or the soulful croon of Etta James, music invites us to dance with the medicine and discover the profound depths of our inner worlds.