I am a really, really big fan of music. More often than not, I’ve got some music playing in the background while I’m working, doing the dishes, reading, etc. But I find that when I’m really working on something that takes full concentration, I require a specific kind of music that is great background, but won’t be *so* great that it distracts from the task at hand. So, I figure I’d share my favorite Serious Worktime Music with you guys (from my Spotify account), just in case you’re looking for some inspiration!
- Tron: Legacy Soundtrack by Daft Punk
Seriously, I don’t even know how I stumbled upon this one. I’ve never seen the movie Tron. But the soundtrack is just quietly epic enough that it is great for helping me focus. - Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming. by M83
Amazing album. This one may be a bit more distracting, because Midnight City is such a fabulous song. And the music in general has a magical feel to it. But play it quietly enough, and you’ll be able to bob your head to the beat while coding that complex blog archive page/designing that cute monster graphic. - The Creek Drank the Cradle by Iron & Wine
This is a bit more of a folky/bluegrass feel, but still very chill. I used to put this album on to fall asleep a lot. So… be warned, I suppose. Maybe don’t listen to this when you are tired. - Rodrigo y Gabriela by Rodrigo y Gabriela
This album is so fun! I mean, R y G are fun in general. But because they’re instrumental, it’s easy to play this music and not get too distracted. This would be great for times when you’re working on the creative and fun aspect of a project. - Kind of Blue by Miles Davis
I think I first heard of this album because it’s the vinyl that Julia Roberts gives to Richard Gere in Runaway Bride. Strange the things we remember, right? Either way, if you want to feel classy and inspired, this album is the one for you. It’s beautiful and spunky but can still relax in the background while you do your work.
What if you need a break?
Sometimes, when you hit the 4th hour of sitting in front of your screen, it’s time to get. up. Here are some albums I play when I want to put my dance pants on and get loose. Some of my fave Not So Serious Funtime Music:
- Days are Gone by Haim
I wish I was as cool as these chicks! This album is electric, fun, and so easy to sing along and dance to. I dare you not to play The Wire on repeat. - In Light by Givers
If all you want is to feel light, optimistic, care-free, and ready to tackle the world, this album might help. - Modern Vampires of the City by Vampire Weekend
I held off on listening to these guys for awhile because I felt like it was cliche, and a friend of a friend of a friend said they were jerks, so .. scoff, right? Well, I got over it, because their music is catchy and danceable. Kick off your shoes and show those socks a good time. - Talking is Hard by Walk the Moon
I mainly listen to this album by putting Shut Up and Dance on repeat, but the rest of it is just as good. You may involuntarily raise the roof – that’s okay, though! - 1989 by Taylor Swift
She yanked her albums off Spotify and made me buy her CD, but I’m still a Swiftie for sure. 1989 is essentially youth and discovery bottled up into an album.
Well, I hope you were inspired to add some of these albums to your collection. Feel free to follow me on Spotify, and please let me know your favorite Serious Worktime Music (and Not So Serious Funtime Music) in the comments!