Music in the workplace: A design intern’s guide on what to listen to

Music in the workplace matters. Many people have preferences and ideas when it comes to what they want to hear. There’s a time and a place for everything, much like with music; there’s a mood and a genre for any situation.

If you want to know what a graphic design intern like me listens to when doing work, then you’ve come to the right place. Below I’d like to link to a few personal Spotify playlists that I made for many situations. These playlists can be used while working on a design project or even when trying to relax after a busy day at the studio.

Tylenol and Masturbation – Don’t let the raunchy title turn you off on this playlist. It’s a lyric from the first song on the list. I included songs mostly centered around the theme of love. This is the playlist I usually put on when I’m making art, or designing anything at work. I find some of the mellow tunes help me relax and put my mind into a better headspace. And they’re also not bad for date night.

The Jammin’ Jams – I can’t take all the credit for this playlist. It was made one evening with a couple friends of mine, tailored for a house party I was going to throw that weekend. The playlist was designed specifically for everyone to enjoy. It has, in my opinion, is guaranteed to have some of the most recognizable songs to sing to, dance to, and work to.

Extensive List of Maddie Approved Jazz Tunes – I made this a while ago for a friend who never actively listened to jazz music before she met me. As a jazz enthusiast, I jumped at the chance to compile a list of my favourite jazz songs and compositions in the hopes to spark an interest in the genre for her. I have since used this playlist myself in many situations in my life. I find that in keeping with the first playlist, some of the songs really get you in that headspace for creativity. Also, a good listen for those morning coffee breaks.

I Can’t Dance but I’ll Try – The last playlist I’ll recommend is still technically unfinished. I made a list of songs I feel are easy to dance to, and there are still tons of songs left out there that are easy to dance to that need to be added. This is a fun list of music that can be used when you’re feeling a bit wavier than usual. Sometimes you just have a lot of energy while working and these are the perfect songs to use.

You, as the reader, can listen to the entirety of all these playlists and I’ll be impressed with you, cause some of them are over 4+ hours long. However, I implore you to take these as guidelines. Find what genre or mood suits you best when you’re doing your work. Make your own playlist of songs that you feel will help you with creativity and focus, and just have fun with it. Because at the end of the day, music is always fun.

Happy listening!

Maddie