---

With finals season quickly approaching, maintaining focus while studying and listening to music can be challenging. Some songs are too upbeat and therefore distracting, others are too slow and not motivating, and yet others are so catchy that you end up singing the lyrics instead of studying. While I lean towards listening to upbeat songs while studying, other times I like to listen to instrumental music. Here are five of my recommendations for fifteen songs for this finals season. Listen to all fifteen songs for finals season in the Spotify playlist below.

Sweet Ivory — Kidsnot$aints.

Kidsnot$aints.’ newest single, “Sweet Ivory” is relaxed and groovy like something you’d hear playing in a local coffee shop with exposed brick walls and plants all over while the morning sunlight streams through the windows. This smooth R&B song features a prominent bass guitar line, relaxed drum beat, and smooth electronic sounds. 

Summer Glow — Unfound

If you love synthwave, instrumental music, or audio panning elements, “Summer Glow” is the song for you. Unfound does an incredible job of introducing new electronic elements throughout the song. I personally find it hard to stay engaged while listening to instrumentals, but this song easily kept me engaged and focused while working.

Indigo — B. Keyz, Travis Mendes, Kola Rai

Sometimes studying to rap or hip-hop music can be distracting, and that is where I would recommend “Indigo”. B. Keyz alongside Travis Mendes and Kola Rai deliver smooth rap at its finest. The background vocals, chords, and synth elements provide a gentle flow to the song, which makes it an easy listen whether you’re writing an essay or doing a problem set.

bittersweet — Father Koi

Let’s be real, sometimes you need upbeat music to listen to while finishing an essay at 2 am the night before it’s due so that you don’t fall asleep. “Bittersweet” is hyperpop gold and perfect for that scenario or any time you need to study to upbeat music. Be sure to check out the rest of Father Koi’s sophomore album, everything is a dream, but it is your dream.

GLEAM AND BARK — WHY NOT

WHY NOT features Minneapolis trio, Henry Breen, Isaac Dell, and Joshua MacGregor whose sound is similar to HUNNY, flor, and Hippo Campus. “GLEAM AND BARK” is the study tune for when you need some summery indie pop to rid any winter finals blues. Its upbeat tune will have you foot-tapping while studying, still focused as ever.

listen to all fifteen songs for finals season here: