In this episode of Why Stuff Happens, Hope dives into the everyday mystery of why we can't stop humming that same catchy commercial jingle or pop chorus. Up to 90 percent of people experience this phenomenon, which scientists call "involuntary musical imagery" but is most commonly known as an "earworm". We explore the fascinating history of the word—which originally meant an actual insect or corn pest before the German word Ohrwurm was adapted in English to describe infectious tunes. You will also discover the perfect storm of musical ingredients that makes a song sticky, such as fast, danceable tempos, common melodic shapes, and unexpected musical twists that create a "cognitive itch" your brain feels compelled to scratch. We also dive into the brain science behind the "phonological loop" and learn how human brains actually evolved to remember oral histories and information much better when it is attached to a melody. Finally, Hope shares scientifically proven ways to banish that looping tune, including listening to the song all the way through, or why the simple physical act of chewing gum might just be your best defense