10 Songs to Add to Your Writing Playlist (Tunes for All of the Moods)

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When I write, there is almost always music playing in the background. One: because I live in a chaotic house with a bunch of children, and two: because music helps me to immerse myself in my writing.

There’s something so motivating about listening to music that corresponds to the mood of the scene you’re writing—whether it’s a comedic moment, rendezvous between lovers, or a full-scale battle.

All of the songs on this list are instrumental. I don’t find lyric-containing pieces as aesthetic (and they can be distracting), but I’d be interested in adding a few to my playlist. Please leave any recommendations in the comments!

Here are the links to the Spotify playlists I listen to while writing: Moonrise and Writing Time. All of the songs discussed in this post are on them, plus many other favorites!

1. Moonrise by Brian Crain

This is my favorite song on my playlists. Any time it comes up, I automatically feel inspired to write. The piece starts off as a piano solo, but quickly explodes into this gorgeous piano-cello duet. The dynamics are stunning, and the composer did an exceptional job of leading the listener through an array of emotions. The richness of the cello at the end is definitely my favorite part.

2. The Princess and the Pea by Lou D’Audrey

I recently came across this song while reading, Since I’m usually focused on the task at hand (writing), and the music is background noise, I often discover new songs while listening to my recommendations (after coming out of a writing-daze). That was the case with The Princess and the Pea.

This song was made for writers. It has a literary undertone to it, if that makes any sense. This is the song that would be playing on repeat in the world’s grandest library, and the name is the cherry on top.

3. Dimman by Jakob Ahlbom

I forgot about this song until I was looking through my playlist. It’s a little less whimsical than some of the other pieces on this list (if that makes sense). It’s definitely a great choice for writing an emotional scene or the climax of a contemporary novel. It reminds me of Every Day by David Levithan for some reason, so if you’ve read that book, this is it in musical terms.

4. Lost and Found by Silver Sliver

Lost and Found is another beautiful piano piece great for listening to while writing. It's soulful, tranquil, and almost sad in a way. I could see this offering inspiration for a break up or death scene.

5. The Edge of Love by Dawn Huntley

This is a great song for writing a romance or tragic break up, but it could also inspire a scene about friendship or the love one has for one’s family.

6. Manus in Mano by Jacques Moni

Another song that slipped my mind is Manus in Mano. There are so many amazing songs by indie musicians, and this one gives me all of the vibes. It’s peaceful, and has these cords in the background of the melody that are absolutely beautiful.

7. Trpělivost růže přináší by Václav Slezák

In my WIP, many of the scenes take place is a forest. This song puts me in a great mindset as my characters explore that particular setting.

8. I Wrote You A Song by Chad Lawson

What better song to listen to while writing than one about writing?

9. Soft Mallets by Little Florence

Soft Mallets is similar to Dimman in that they both share a hypnotic melody. If there is a song for everyday writing—something that’s not too distracting, yet offers a variety of dynamics and sounds—I’d choose this one.

10. Salvatore by Henrietta Kuipers

I love songs that allow me to get lost in the art of writing and this one definitely does that. The melody is mesmerizing.

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Thank you for reading this post. Make sure to check out these songs and happy writing!

It's been a pleasure writing for you, and until next time—stay weird and stay writing. - Lexi