The best soundtracks for studying

While we can always appreciate the power of a new song or a new masterpiece of an album (Exhibit A: Lemonade, ANTI, Blonde, Glory), there is just something great about an album that already has a plot laid out for us. So, when you’re searching Spotify for your next choice of study music, look no further. I’ve got you covered. Study to movie soundtracks and you’ll see a noticeable difference in your motivation.

After some research and a lot of time with headphones glued to my ears, I have narrowed down my list of the best study music options. They aren’t in any particular order, but let’s be honest, Star Wars wins every time.

Star Wars

The GOAT John Williams is a musical genius. He composed the scores of Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jaws, E.T., Indiana Jones, Schindler’s List, etc. As much as I love the iconic scores of Jaws and Raiders of the Lost Ark and the feels of “Hedwig’s Theme,” Star Wars will always be number one. My Darth Vader water bottle agrees. We definitely can get down to business with “The Imperial March” guiding us.

I wasn’t lying, y’all.

Hamilton

You won’t be wasting your time with this choice.  The album lasts like three days, so when you need to dive into the books, start listening to the work of Lin-Manuel Miranda. And if you’re in a history class learning about Alexander Hamilton, enlighten your class with everything you know about him. You have to rap your newfound knowledge, though. It just doesn’t count if you don’t rap.

The Lion King

Hans Zimmer didn’t compose your childhood for you to never listen to it again. Use your study time not just listen to this soundtrack, but to really hear it. Hear that there’s a lion. And when you feel like the homework load too much, go back and replay “Hakuna Matata.” Timon and Pumbaa will ease the pain away. The Lion King is like an old friend–you haven’t seen each other in years, but, when you notice each other, it’s like you’ve spent no time apart.

I know this is the TFA soundtrack, but I have to be here for BB-8. The Lion King is the forever bae, though.

Les Miserables

We all know why this one fits. Studying is a miserable time. Surround yourself with the misery of a crowd of people during the French Revolution and you may change your perspective. Then again, you may just start crying and get no work done. You’ll never forget the number 24601 ever again, though, so there’s that.

Pitch Perfect

This one might seem like a strange addition, but I know you’ve seen this movie. And it’s a great upbeat lineup of songs for you to listen to while you study your little heart away. We all remember the “Cup Song” Epidemic of 2012. I urge you to relive those memories and find a new love for Anna Kendrick’s slaying of “No Diggity.”

Rocky IV

The soundtrack to the highest-grossing sports film until The Blind Side had to make the list. It offers so much hype music for you to get into victory mode. This one screams at you to do your best and kick it into gear. What song does this offer, you ask? “Eye of the Tiger.” I know the words. You know the words.  Now, I know this song is from Rocky III, but Rocky IV also gives us “Burning Heart” and “Living in America.” Let Rocky show you the way.

She’s looking for a soundtrack already. It’s like magic. She hadn’t even read this article.

When you need study music and can’t think of anything, take a chance on soundtracks. Let the songs be your guide through the wave of midterms and papers. They will get you through the tough times. They’ll be your friend when you’re alone in the library at 3 A.M.