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SBU | Life

How To Create The Perfect Playlist

Amanda Ippolito Student Contributor, St. Bonaventure University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SBU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Do you ever find yourself struggling when trying to create the perfect playlist? Well, I am here to give you some tips on how to make this easier.

When you decide to create a playlist, decide what you would use this for the most. For example, you could have a playlist that you use primarily at the gym, when you are cooking, a party or even when going on a drive. It is important to keep this in mind because will help you set the tone and really match the theme you’re going for. 

Tip #1: Finding the Right Artists/Bands

The first step to actually crafting your playlist is to find different artists and bands that you want to include. You can either stick to a specific genre of music, or include as many different genres as you would like. Be sure to include classic hits and newer songs so it does not sound so repetitive. The key to finding the right artists is making sure that they all complement each other well. You don’t want a bunch of musicians where all their songs sound too similar, but you also don’t want them to drastically differ. Find the perfect happy medium and it should help balance out everything well. 

Tip #2: Be Open to New Music 

Being open minded to new music is so important. Don’t be afraid to listen to something or someone new. Little did you know that you may end up loving it. Personally, I am such a fan of exploring new genres of music and different artists within them. As you mix up your music taste you will become a more well-rounded listener and create new music pathways for yourself and even your friends. When adding new artists to your playlist this may become a new conversation topic, especially when playing this playlist around your friends and family. I mean, if you’re really lucky, you may even cause them to fall in love with a whole new artist/genre too!

Tip #3: Shuffle Test 

I have heard and seen all over that the shuffle test is a must when finalizing your playlist. Once you have added all of your songs go to the top of the playlist and hit shuffle 3 or 4 times. Each time you hit shuffle the song should be a great song that is just perfect for the occasion. If this works out where each time is a “fire” song, then this playlist was a success. Unfortunately, if the shuffle test does not work out as good as you would have liked it to, then maybe try going back and adding or switching out some songs. 

Amanda Ippolito

SBU '26

Amanda is a senior at St. Bonaventure University majoring in early & childhood education. After graduation she plans to pursue a masters degree and then eventually secure a job as an elementary school teacher.

Amanda is a current member and brand deal coordinator of the SBU Her Campus chapter. She is responsible for writing 1 article per week and communicating with professionals to help secure brand deals. Amanda tends to enjoy writing about topics such as lifestyles, personal experiences, and popular culture. Along with Her Campus Amanda is also the Co-Captain of the SBU Dance team, and member of the Bonaventure Education association.

Outside of school Amanda enjoys spending time with her friends and family. Some hobbies she likes to take on include dancing, thrifting, creating playlists, hiking, and cooking. One of her goals after school is to start traveling more including throughout and outside of the United States. A fun fact about Amanda is that she used to be ambidextrous.