Unfortunately it’s midterms season once again here at Rutgers, even though it feels as though we just barely survived the first few exams and major assignments only yesterday. While spending hour after hour studying crucial material, it can be hard to get focused without becoming anxious as well. Here are some chill tunes for you to keep on repeat as you ace those papers, perfect those projects, and crush those exams.
Chasing Parties – Sasha Sloan
Singer-songwriter Sasha Sloan’s soothing voice is the perfect soundtrack to your study session. Chasing Parties’ dreamy and mellow vibe can fade into the background as you focus, and it’s upbeat enough to keep you in a good mood as you review even some of the most boring material.
Waves (Acoustic) – Dean Lewis
Dean Lewis has been making the charts for his hit Be Alright, but the acoustic version of his single Waves, which has been featured on shows like Riverdale and Suits, is the perfect balance of calming and comforting. Dean’s layered vocals and piano keep the song light, non-distracting, and relaxing.
comethru – Jeremy Zucker
New Jersey native Jeremy Zucker stated in an interview with Complex that his new album summer is supposed to feel like, “freedom, youth, and happiness”, and comethru is a direct extension of this vibe. Having written the song after just graduating with a degree in molecular biology, Jeremy said the song specifically represents the balance between grinding for that degree and graduation. For those of you who are counting down the days until you graduate this school year, this song will give you the incentive to push through those all-nighters — it’ll be worth it soon enough.
Gorgeous (Live Session/Acoustic) – X Ambassadors
X Ambassadors is rock band that hails from Ithaca, New York, and within the last few years had gained a lot of popularity for their songs Unsteady and Renegades. Among their records, listeners can find anything between high-energy pieces to ballads. Gorgeous falls in the former category, but the acoustic rendition takes a more soulful approach; the lyrics are feel-good as the chorus chants about being so in love with someone else, but the guitar and keyboard allow for a certain laid-back quality that is a different yet welcomed change.
Shadow and Light – Martin Luke Brown
Something about Martin Luke Brown’s Shadow and Light boosts my mood instantly. Maybe it’s the slightly-raspy voice paired with beautiful lyrics about finding the strength to carry on despite any hardships we face, or maybe it’s the contagious rhythm that will have you snapping along. Either way, this song will do a good job at making you feel like you can handle whatever comes your way, a reminder we need when we feel like we’re struggling with our homework.
Sure Thing (Spotify Sessions) – Miguel
Miguel’s most known for his silky vocals on popular R&B tracks, but his Spotify session performance of Sure Thing strips away all of the background music in favor of a single acoustic guitar. In this rendition, listeners are treated with Miguel’s melodic vocals and the song’s overall coffee shop vibes. This track is perfect for when you need something to pump up your study session without taking you out of your zone.
This Way – Khalid x H.E.R.
If you went to last year’s Beats on the Banks concert, or if you happen to listen to mainstream music, you’ll recognize Khalid’s distinct voice immediately. Lesser known is the artist H.E.R., who’s effortless vocals make for a match made in song heaven. This Way was featured on the soundtrack for the film Superfly, and it’s arguably one of the best tracks on the album. Take it easy as you listen to this entrancing tune.
Venus (Instrumental) – Sleeping at Last
For those of you who would prefer to study to some instrumental music, Sleeping At Last’s instrumental rendition of his song, Venus (Instrumental) is the piece for you. Every song created by vocalist Ryan O’Neal a masterpiece in general, but his instrumentals are otherworldly, and this song is no exception. The full orchestra present in the piece is a nice switch from lyrics, and is great for when you have to really buckle down and can’t afford any distractions.
The Title – Xavier Omär
Xavier Omär’s The Title was intended to be performed by Sam Smith, but the connection was never made between Smith and Xavier. Lucky for us, The Title was released by Xavier himself, and listeners are blessed with his acapella-inspired single about defining a relationship. His voice is layered with emotions and his light beatboxing complements this track well. This airy and understated single makes the playlist as a refreshing addition.
The Heart of Life – John Mayer
John Mayer’s one of those artists who’s known for his impressive guitar-playing and his blues-rock sound. The Heart of Life is one of those songs that makes you feel like you’re chilling in your backyard in the middle of summer and life is so good. This is an excellent choice for when you need something to take you back to your happy place.
Tell Her You Love Her (Acoustic) – Echosmith
Echosmith is an indie-pop band from California made up of siblings. The stripped, acoustic version of their song Tell Her You Love Her is gentle but packed with tons of emotion. I used to listen this song a lot in high school, but recently heard it playing at Starbucks as I was studying for my exams last week and was reminded of how lovely it is. It makes the list for it’s heartfelt lyrics and the beyond-pleasant acoustic guitar backing singer Sydney Sierota’s sweet vocals.
XO – EDEN
Jonathon Ng, an Irish artist professionally known as EDEN, formerly known as The Eden Project. Under his old moniker, he created EDM and dubstep-influenced records. But today he leans more towards an indie-pop style, and XO is a hybrid of alternative and acoustic styles. The song will put you at ease, but will also keep you inspired as the electronic twists incorporated into the track will keep your brain stimulated.
Thin – Lambert Rework – Aquilo, Lambert
Another instrumental for those who prefer gentle backing music, Thin (Lambert Rework) is a delightful, keyboard-centric remastering of Aquilo’s Thin. Each key is gentle enough to feel like you’re being played a soft lullaby. It’s the kind of song you put on when you’re feeling overwhelmed and need to take a minute to close your eyes and collect yourself, or if you simply need something to keep you focused yet tranquil.
Flaws – Vancouver Sleep Clinic
Australian indie-pop band Vancouver Sleep Clinic consistently cranks out ambient songs that will put you into an almost dream-like state. Flaws, as described by lead singer Tim Bettinson in an Indie Music Filter website takeover, was written as one of the most self-explanatory songs on their Winter EP. He said that hopes the album inspires hope within those who listen. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your study session as it will surely calm you down the second the first verse hits.
Tomorrow’s Song – Ólafur Arnalds
Rounding out this playlist is Icelandic multi-instrumentalist and producer Ólafur Arnalds’ Tomorrow’s Song, a gorgeous piano piece that’s straightforward but elegant. If you’d prefer to study to more classical pieces, instrumentals, or just plain perfection in musical form, this is the song for you.
There you have it: a super relaxed playlist for all of your studying needs. Don’t forget to check out this playlist on Spotify, and let’s let this semester be our best one yet!