The second semester of senior year has been harrowing, to say the least. Between college applications, extracurriculars and plain old senioritis at its finest, it's been difficult for me to really get into the mood for studying and studying well, but I found a solution through music. Here's a list of seven songs that can really make you feel like picking up that pen and doing some work.
1. Green and Gold (live)
Lianne La Havas's voice is like honey, and it is even more prominent when she sings live, with just a guitar. The studio version is lovely as well, so if you like listening to more upbeat versions of her songs, hearing that version is probably a better choice. However, listening to "Green and Gold (live)" is a surefire way to start a studying session well.
2. Le Cygne
More easily recognized as "The Swan," this piece by Saint-Saëns is sure to entrance you and provide great background noise to whatever coursework you're trying to complete.
3. The Way You Look Tonight
Tony Bennett's rich voice is highlighted in this wonderful cover of "The Way You Look Tonight."
4. Eternal Youth
"Eternal Youth" is a modern song with heavy Eastern influence, yet it is produced so sharply that it is incredibly satisfying when the beat drops. RUDE is truly an extremely talented person.
5. All I Have
I saw Snoh Aalegra as an opener to another artist, and I'm so glad I got the opportunity to see her live. Her songs are fresh and exciting — just what one needs to when studying. "All I Have" is no exception.
6. Gymnopèdie No. I
This is by far one of the most calming pieces that any composer has created. This piece will make you want to brew a cup of coffee or tea and get to work more relaxed than you've ever been before.
7. Après un rêve
Fauré is another wonderful composer whose work just so happens to be great study playlist material. "Après un rêve," or "After a dream," is a piece that is so delicate that it is the perfect music to hear when trying to focus.
I hope they are of use to you when you're studying! Happy listening!
