Heeeeey...this is Theo. (Had to do it)
Which music is self-actualized music? It's an interesting question, because I find there are different ways to look at it.
First of all, you can consider self-actualizing music motivating. Like a kick in a butt. Whenever you hear this type of songs, you automatically start doing the process you had been putting off. I would say certain hip-hop or rock music fits this purpose quite well. The problem with the previous examples, though, is that they can get you going but as you become desensitized to their effect, they lose their ability to do so. You cannot get too far with a "dirty high", so to say.
For me, to reach the truest self-actualizing levels, the music should be a guide to our innermost self. Whenever I do deep work, I put on some instrumental music depending on the mood. Sometimes a piano or violin playlist will do. Sometimes I listen to jazz or soul. When the work is from a bit lighter topic I find coffee shops with their little background buzz can be a valid music to my pursuit of self-actualization. Lately I have discovered more and more the power of "alpha waves". So what I found, is that you don't even have to define music as narrowly as "something that is performed by a traditional band and played on a popular radio". Let the music be your vehicle, not the one who creates your destiny. Music can be the thing that guides you to your own innermost truth.
To conclude this - sometimes pop music can get you started, but you will find it hard to reach your core with it. Your self-actualization.
Thanks, Leo, for providing us the opportunity in the form of this forum!
