Tips for Making a Writing Playlist
When it comes to writing, it’s important that both your environment and mood are set just right. If even the slightest thing is off, there’s no doubt your focus will soon follow.
If you’re struggling to get into the correct headspace to bring out your creativity, a perfectly curated writing playlist could very well be your secret weapon.
A Writing Playlist: What is it?
A writing playlist is exactly what it sounds like – a selection of songs or music set to help you get in the zone. Sure, silence may be preferred when putting pen to paper, but sometimes that hint of background noise can be exactly what you need to get the words flowing.
Whether it’s through apps like Spotify or blasting from a mix CD (those are still a thing, right?), creating a writing playlist that’s unique to you and your taste can make all the difference when working on your manuscript.
Why Should I Make a Writing Playlist?
It’s been proven that music can help us change our mindset and mood. Think about it: how do you feel when you hear your favorite song playing in a grocery store? Or while you’re driving? Has a song ever made you cry? Has one ever cheered you up?
You see, music is powerful; creating a writing playlist that influences your mood can undoubtedly have a positive impact on your creativity and headspace.
Tips For Making a Writing Playlist
Don’t go straight for your favorites. As much as you may want to fill your writing playlist with Lizzo, it might not be such a good idea. If you’re anything like me, you’ll stop midsentence to sing along or bust out a dance move. Instead, opt for music that won’t distract you – and save the Lizzo for your “I Finished A Chapter” celebratory playlist.
Match it to the mood of your book. Writing a love story? Try some Frank Sinatra. Working on a fight scene? I hear System of a Down is good for that. Think hard about the types of songs that trigger your different emotions and use them to your advantage.
Get instrumental… If you’re the type who spends too much time analyzing or trying to memorize lyrics, switch it up by adding songs without words. Instrumental music actually can help you focus, as it will work to block out any background noise while providing you with a nice soothing effect.
… or try some meditation music. There are tons of tracks that were designed to help listeners get into a specific headspace – those used in yoga or during a massage, for example. Even something with a hint of rainfall or birds could help with your motivation and creativity. From Calm Radio:
“Music also has transformative powers. The combination of rhythm and melody has a tremendous ability to influence our minds. When we are listening to a piece of music with a slow rhythm, in a major key, with no harsh elements, it can bring us to a more relaxed and soothing place.”
Eras and genres can be used as research. While the music you add to your writing playlist will help with creativity, it can also be used as a learning tool.
For example, if your character grew up in the 70s, try adding songs from that era: Fleetwood Mac, The Doors, ABBA.
Maybe your story takes place in another country? Do some digging to find songs in the country’s language or artists who call it home.
The songs you choose will help you see things from your characters’ points of view, and you’ll be surprised by how helpful they will be.
No matter the type of writing playlist you create, stay true to yourself and your style – at the end of the day, your playlist is meant to inspire you and you only.
What songs will you add to your writing playlist?
