October 28, 2002

It's official, the Monday following the clocks going back (Oct. 28) is the year's hardest morning to get yourself going. In its quest to find the perfect start, research by Quaker Oatso Simple has found that a staggering 71% of Britons thought that music on public transport struck the right note.

The idea of music on public transport has overwhelming support from all age groups – 87% of 15-24 year olds, and three quarters of 25-64 year olds also thought it an excellent idea. Even over 50% of the over-65 age group wanted music to help their journeys pass by.

Travelers' increasing frustration with public transport was demonstrated when the public was asked which tracks best described how they feel about their journey. One in five people chose the song "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor to sum up their feelings.

"It's Getting Hot in Here" by Nelly and "Don't Stop Movin'" by S Club 7 were the tracks chosen by the 15-24 year olds to describe the overcrowded situations experienced during peak travel.

Over a quarter of the public chose "Things Can Only Get Better" by D:Ream. Surprisingly, the optimistic 56% of those that thought "things can only get better" were men. Generally, 46% of Northerners thought things could only get better, compared to 32% of Southerners, whilst those living in the Midlands were the least optimistic.

Astonishingly, 7% of the public thought "Perfect Moment" by Martine McCutcheon summed up their journey – leaving the rest of the public to wonder which part of the country they live in.

Psychologist Sue Keane says, "The research shows that although we can do nothing to solve the problems of public transport, small peripheral changes will have a positive effect on us for the rest of the day."

Although the type of music played on public transport will no doubt open a great debate, the survey showed that Ole Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra had universal appeal across all ages and regions.

Sue Keane said, "Frank Sinatra's timeless tunes are more relaxing, less challenging and more suitable as background music to a wider section of travelers than some livelier, controversial or intrusive tunes."

Survey conducted by NOP World with 1000 adults, 11-13 October 2002.