Humpback whales are the oceans’ musicians creating songs that have fascinated people for decades. But it’s not an unexplained phenomenon. It’s an intricate part of their existence with patterns that could give any human composer a run for their money.

It all started in the ’50s when a Navy engineer who was listening for enemy submarines picked up the unexpected sounds of humpback whales. This discovery didn’t get a lot of attention until it was shared with scientists in the ’60s, leading to a groundbreaking realization. These sounds were structured, repetitive songs. The release of these recordings sparked a movement that helped usher in a ban on commercial whaling.

While the exact reasons why humpback whales sing is still up for debate, the leading theory suggests that these songs play a role in mating rituals. Each population of whales has its distinct melody that males collectively tune into, echoing through the ocean.

What’s truly fascinating is how these songs spread and how they build a culture among the whales. Over a span of 11 years, scientists tracked how new songs moved through populations of humpback whales across thousands of miles of ocean, almost like a baton in a relay race. These aren’t just trivial changes; they represent significant shifts in the whales’ vocal repertoire.

This behavior showcases the complexity of humpback whale interactions. Their ability to learn and transmit new songs suggests a culture not entirely unlike our own, where social learning and change are valued. It’s a clear sign of the intelligence and social nature of these creatures.

The unraveling of whale songs is more than a fascination. It’s a conservation success story. When scientists shared the complex melodies of humpback whales with the world, it did more than showcase their culture—it stirred a global awareness about their plight. The popular album of humpback whale songs, released in the ’60s, became a surprising hit. But more importantly, it was a wake-up call that turned the tide on whale hunting.

This awareness didn’t just add to our playlists; it ignited a conservation crusade that led to the 1982 moratorium on commercial whaling. By appreciating the sophisticated and learned behaviors of these sentient creatures through their songs, humanity saw whales in a new light—not as hunting targets, but as beings with their own right to the ocean’s vastness.