I know many of you have conquered the finish line of your latest term or have real jobs that are now beginning to wind down for summer. But, for me, it’s that crucial point in the quarter: mid-terms. Unfortunately, my graduate school is not on the same schedule as undergrads, so my Facebook news feed is filled with people laying on the beach — or worse: graduating. How can I stay motivated when that 10 page paper is due tomorrow? I need the perfect playlist: a combination of familiar tunes, that when played, make me feel victorious, even in the midst of a dark library full of zombie-esque students. Although I cannot stop myself from fully procrastinating, here are a few songs that help me refocus to get the job done.
Coldplay: Viva La Vida
This song makes me feel like I am leading troops into battle; the violins make the whole piece sound majestic. It’s a four-minute masterpiece and perfect for making you feel like you can conquer a 10 page paper.
Keane: Somewhere Only We Know
One of the first bands I remember liking in middle school — Keane — holds a special place in my heart. And this song certainly keeps with the theme of swelling, majestic-like songs. A little sad, but not too melancholy to distract you from your frantic studies. It’s like a bittersweet pain: it reminds me that after every all-nighter, there is joy after you meet the deadline.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs: Maps
“Wait, they don’t love you like I love you.” This line kills me every time. Played in the middle of paper writing when I have reached a lull, this is an example of bittersweet music that keeps me moving forward.
Arcade Fire: Wake Up
These Canadians deliver every time. One of my favorites from their earlier albums, this song injects victory into my soul.
M83: “Midnight City”
When this song comes on, everything changes. The combo of a driving beat, synthesizers, and simple yet earnest vocals takes an ordinary study session and makes it an experience. Yeah. I’m not just being dramatic. It’s that powerful.
Calvin Harris: “Feel So Close”
This song is one that I usually put on repeat. Harris is one of the few DJs I like because he keeps it simple. The beat isn’t too complicated, his vocals match the song perfectly, and it just makes me feel like failure — for the moment — is impossible. I play this when the end is near, or when I need an extra boost. The upbeat tempo is easy to work to, and I find that some of my best last minute papers are written to this tune.
Flickr photo (CC) courtesy of johncohen
