Exam Season: 5 Songs For Your Study Playlist!

As exam season approaches, one of my biggest (yet, understated) stresses of exam season seems to be deciding whether or not to listen to music. I, for one, do not need any more excuses to get distracted. 

Is it too distracting or does it help to maintain focus? I would argue that is completely up to the individual. 

In recent years, various studies have pointed out the largely beneficial effects of the perfect study playlists; owing to its ability to motivate, improve concentration and increase memory. 

That said, this mostly depends on the genre of music chosen. Instrumental jazz, electronic and Lo-Fi sounds have demonstrated the most value. 

It is somewhat of a no-brainer that your favourite high-tempo tunes probably shouldn’t be played on full blast. Low and behold, here’s a guide to a few calmer options to play in the background whilst you study. Happy listening!

In A Sentimental Mood 

Duke Ellington 

If lyrics tend to be a cause for distraction, this classic instrumental jazz is a perfect addition to your playlist. Ellington composed this piece in 1935, and many have replicated with their own versions, yet this original recording has established itself amongst the greatest jazz of all time. 

Fur Elise, Bagatelle in A Minor, WoO 59

Ludwig van Beethoven 

Completely void of lyrics, classical music provides a calm and relaxed environment, making it the ideal choice to achieve optimum productivity. Beethoven’s composition is familiar enough to not feel too far removed, yet still creates the ultimate serene experience. 

Jazz is for ordinary people 

Berlioz 

Overwhelmingly underrated, Berlioz cleverly blends house and jazz genres to form his own distinct sound, well represented by this song. A modern twist on more classic pieces, and still without spoken lyrics!

No One’s Watching Me 

Ezra Collective (feat. Olivia Dean)

A very recent release, Mercury-Award winning Ezra Collective fuse jazz with other well known genres to create soulful and heart-warming music. This single encompasses the soulful vocals of Olivia Dean also, resulting in the utmost comfortable study.  

Sunshine

Cleo Sol

Lyrically heavy, sonically light. Cleo Sol’s music radiates joy and positive energy, and this song is no different. This ballad is encouraging and motivating, to get you through some of those more challenging moments. 

Edited by: Jasmine Pegg