Glasgow hitmaker takes the lead with new album... for dogs
THE multi-million selling Glasgow hitmaker behind some of the biggest records in pop is set to produce a new album of music – especially for dogs.
Songwriter John McLaughlin – who has written hits for Westlife, Rod Stewart, and Sir Cliff Richard – is working with the SSPCA to produce the record, which will feature 10 tracks performed by animal-loving artists including Scottish former X-Factor hopeful Gamu Nhengu. Tracks on the album – titled “Paws, Play, Relax” – are based on the results of research by the charity and the University of Glasgow that shows music can help dogs relax when they are stressed and anxious. Results show the music can help lower levels of stress hormones, improve cardiovascular control and lead to more chilled behaviour. The study also revealed that, like humans, dogs become easily bored if they listen to the same music continually and like variety within their playlist. While classical, pop, Motown, soft rock and reggae all help keep dogs calm, the dogs tested seemed to particularly benefit from reggae and soft rock. Gilly Mendes Ferreira, the Scottish SPCA’s head of research and policy, said the album could help dogs in the charity’s care find new homes. She said: “The team at our centres across Scotland enjoy listening to the album and our dogs have had a very positive reaction to the music. “They’ve been barking less, spending more time lying down and generally displaying more chilled behaviour.” Milton-born song writer and producer McLaughlin, who appeared as a coach on BBC’s Fame Academy and is currently manager of the Bay City Rollers, wrote the songs after being approached to help. He said: “I’m a huge animal lover so was happy to assist in any way I could to help dogs and the charity.
“It wasn’t easy making music that will be enjoyed by dog owners just as much as it will by their beloved pets, but it was very worthwhile.”