In recent years, researchers Charles Freeman and Becki Morris uncovered a striking statistic: “Over 20% of the creative labour force are neurodivergent,” as part of their study on the impact of Covid-19 in DCMS sectors for the Department for Digital Culture Media and Sport (DCMS). Despite representing such a significant portion of the creative community, discussions surrounding neurodivergence within the arts remain sparse. Considering that around 14% of the UK population is neurodiverse, it prompted us to delve deeper into this intersection of creativity and neurodivergence.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity, as defined by the Oxford Dictionary, refers to “showing patterns of thought or behaviour that are different from those of most people, though still part of the normal range in humans.” This encompasses a spectrum of conditions, including but not limited to autism, anxiety disorders, dyslexia, ADHD, and depression. Each neurodivergent individual experiences their own unique combination of traits and challenges. For instance, while some may struggle with social interactions, others might have difficulty focusing on single tasks. There’s a common misconception that neurodiversity manifests in predictable ways; Pinks, a DJ diagnosed with ASD and ADHD, challenges this notion, asserting, “Autism also doesn’t always look like someone with ear defenders, on their own, hiding away from people. It can also look like an active and social DJ.”
One defining characteristic shared by many artists is a heightened ability to hyperfocus on their craft. ADUKEN, a DJ, highlights this advantage: “My neurodivergence is most noticeable with my ability to hyperfocus on things and spend a lot of time perfecting my craft to make it as good as it can be.” Conversely, Pythius shares another side of the experience: “If your brain can’t find dopamine, it’ll focus on cortisol, the stress hormone, because it’s so similar. The only way through, at that moment, is just to keep going.”
Dilemma illustrates the duality of this experience: “The way I am, and work, is, in a nutshell, extremely feast or famine. I struggle to concentrate and feel motivated… But when I’m in hyperfocus mode, I can get a metric shit tonne of something done in a matter of days.”
The road we’ve travelled so far
The understanding of neurodiversity in society is relatively recent, with serious research only surfacing in the late 1980s and early 1990s, marked by the establishment of organizations like Autism Network International. In those early days, cultural representations were limited; characters like Rain Man or Dory were often the only public associations with neurodivergent conditions. Kidsonic, who identifies as having high-functioning Autism, notes, “Nowadays, some of the most influential artists in our scene have autism. Taking their talent at face value rather than seeing their neurodiversity as a defining factor is allowing producers and artists to be seen as equal to our neurotypical peers.”
Simula, who has both Asperger’s and ADHD, reflects on the progress made, stating, “I think the industry has certainly become a lot more aware, but we’re still a long way from accommodating neurodivergent artists.” Nonetheless, awareness is growing, with notable artists beginning to discuss their neurodivergent experiences publicly. Efforts like the introduction of calm spaces at festivals illustrate a positive shift towards inclusivity.
A significant step forward occurred in 2022 when the Association For Electronic Music (AFEM) conducted a survey to gauge the presence of neurodiverse individuals within the music industry. Although artists like Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi had previously spoken about their divergent experiences, the survey revealed that 58% of its participants identified as neurodiverse. Alarmingly, only 38% had an official diagnosis, highlighting the fact that as many as 75% of neurodiverse adults navigate life without getting formally diagnosed—a reality that can lead to various psychological and social challenges.
But what exactly makes the electronic music scene so attractive to neurodivergent people?
The excitement and unpredictability of the electronic music industry appeal significantly to neurodivergent individuals, especially those facing motivational challenges linked to low dopamine levels associated with ADHD. This vibrant, fast-paced environment minimizes traditional workplace constraints, allowing for creativity and self-expression. Many neurodivergent artists find solace and structure in the rhythms inherent to electronic music, which can facilitate focus while providing a sensory outlet.
Pythius points out that in genres like drum & bass, technical attention is key, stating, “Due to my AD(H)D, it can be nice to hyperfixate on your work sometimes. This makes the end result way better, because there’s so much focus on the little details.” Simula adds, “My Asperger’s allows me to think differently with ease… Over the years this has allowed me to develop a style with my music which I very much see as my own.” Marge emphasizes the energetic aspect of her ADHD: “I’m a big ball of energy, and I let loose when I sing. … I can get really creative with these impulses, and there’s a source of inspiration.”
The club scene’s culture thrives on individuality, fostering community among those who feel excluded elsewhere. The dancefloor becomes a sanctuary for self-acceptance, allowing artists and attendees alike to unite in their differences.
Where next?
Looking ahead, the journey towards inclusivity appears promising yet requires ongoing effort. Kidsonic notes, “There seems to be more acceptance within the music scene… We’ve also regressed in some ways,” citing issues surrounding the merging of terms like Asperger’s syndrome— which historically has been stigmatized yet often misused in conversations about neurodiversity. This stagnation can prevent genuine understanding and diminish individual experiences.
On a bright note, public conversations around neurodiversity are no longer taboo, encouraging more artists to share their stories. ADUKEN highlights the positive shifts, noting that the dialogue has expanded from major artists to up-and-coming talents willing to discuss their experiences openly. Promoters are also responding by integrating chill areas into events, recognizing that the auditory overload can deter neurodivergent individuals from joining the community they love.
Events like Liquicity Festival have introduced spaces for individuals to retreat when feeling overwhelmed, addressing the myriad sensitivities many experience. Pinks articulates the importance of creating safer environments, advocating for mindfulness regarding factors like strobe lighting, which can trigger sensory overload. “Some clubs go absolutely ham with strobe lights… Being more mindful creates a more inclusive space.”
It’s essential to remember that each neurodivergent experience is unique; the fast-paced nature of the electronic music scene can be both exhilarating and exhausting. As Dilemma advises, “…take some time off!” in a community that often prioritizes constant output over mental well-being.
Want to read, watch, learn, know more?
- Discover the AFEM’s full 2022 report analyzing neurodiversity within the music industry on their website.
- For personalized support, Tristan Hunt offers coaching tailored for neurodivergent individuals in the music space.
- Check out ‘Different is Delicious’, a documentary produced by Neurodelicious, which aims to challenge assumptions about neurodivergent creativity.
- If you’re a fan of liquid drum & bass and want to show support, explore Liquid Drum & Bass 4 Autism, where proceeds benefit children with autism.
