How to Curate The Perfect Writing Music Playlist

I’ve never had one writing playlist. I have many: for different moods, different tasks, different versions of me. I love music. It’s essential to me, a big part of how I move through the world.

I’m a Pisces, so my life often feels like a movie soundtrack. Music is emotional for me. It sets the tone, it changes how I experience time, and it definitely affects how I work.

So instead of having one go-to “writing playlist,” I choose my music based on what I’m working on and what sort of vibe it requires.

When the work needs energy

Email, admin, logistics, or anything that feels a little dull or repetitive.

For these sort of tasks, I choose music with rhythm and momentum. Something upbeat enough to keep me alert and moving. Lately, that’s often dancehall or Afrobeats. I’m not trying to feel inspired. I just want my body to stay awake while my brain gets things done.

Try this: Create a playlist for low-stakes tasks. Choose music that makes you want to move even a little. If you notice your energy dipping during admin work, that’s usually your cue to add more rhythm.

When the work needs momentum

This is fast drafting. Getting ideas out. Writing without stopping to edit.

Here, I want music that keeps me moving forward. Faster tempo helps, but it also needs to be familiar enough that I don’t start paying attention to the lyrics. The goal is forward motion, not perfection.

Try this: Build a playlist you only use for first drafts. If the music makes you type faster or think less about each sentence, it’s doing its job.

When the work needs focus

Editing, structuring, or thinking something through.

I usually avoid lyrics here. I want music that fades into the background and gives my thoughts space. Lo-fi, instrumental music, or classical works well for me because it creates a steady environment without pulling me into another story.

Try this: Notice whether lyrics distract you when you’re editing. If they do, experiment with instrumental music and see how it changes your ability to concentrate.

When the work needs feeling

This is slower, more emotional writing. Personal pieces. Anything that requires staying present instead of pushing through.

For this, I want atmosphere. Music that has emotional weight but doesn’t rush me. Slower hip-hop, R&B, or ambient sounds help me settle into the work and stay with it.

Try this: Create a playlist for emotional or reflective work. Choose music that matches the pace of the feeling you’re writing about, not the mood you wish you were in.

I don’t think there’s one right kind of music for writing. I think there’s just paying attention to what you need.

Music is one of the ways I listen to myself. It helps me meet the work where it is instead of forcing a vibe that doesn’t fit.

You don’t need a perfect playlist. You just need a few that know when to show up.