Music follows us everywhere, sometimes at inconvenient moments.
We automatically reach for it to replace the silence. Whether at a party or in the car, it is second nature to immediately use it to fill the surroundings.
It arouses emotion during an on-screen kiss and heightens suspense as the hero saves the day. It pulses through your headphones, fueling your adrenaline as you run.
As students, it is a vital instrument to keep us going throughout the day. However, some have not quite yet mastered the ability to concentrate on tasks while listening to music. With that being said, my Spotify experience has allowed me to compile the perfect playlist to get in the right headspace.
1. Television Soundtracks
Lately, this has been my go-to when trying to do homework assignments. 13 Reasons Why came out around this time last year, but it never gets old. The soundtrack is diverse in its moods and styling. Yet each individual song carries a calming quality.
I finally watched the much-admired NBC show This Is Us. Like the show, the soundtrack is just as awe-inspiring. The opening score itself is the perfect backtrack for study sessions. Jazz pieces and folksy, acoustic tracks provide a pleasing blend of sounds.
2. Film Scores
The greatest films are accompanied with likewise arrangements. Scores set the atmosphere and intensify moments. Music from movies like UP! and Harry Potter give an air of lightness and curiosity. Since there are no lyrics, this type of music can be listened to mindlessly while focusing on heavy material.
3. Disney
I accredit this one to my incredibly avid, Disney-goer friend, Alex. Knowing these words by heart, it is easy to tune out Ariel's longing to explore the human world. Growing up with these songs, there is a feeling of contentment that comes with playing it lightly in the background.
4. Old School Jazz
I am talking Frank Sinatra crooning about flying to the moon. Similar beautiful pieces like Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home To Me," Billie Holliday's "I'll Be Seeing You," and Nat King Cole's "L-O-V-E" are classics. The slow tempo commonly found through these kinds of songs create a sense of comfort. It eases anxieties and allows one to focus on the task at hand.
5. Coffee Shop
There is a reason that half of UF's population can be found at coffee shops. Not only is it feeding into students' coffee addiction, but it is also because of the music. The music creates the atmosphere. Songs played are specifically tailored for people to concentrate. Several coffeehouse playlists can be found on Spotify.
6. Acoustic Calm
If you are into listening to popular hits but cannot fully focus on homework or studying, the playlist Acoustic Calm on Spotify offers acoustic and instrumental versions of top songs.
