It is that time of the semester again: With finals right around the corner, Boston University students are slowly replacing their iced coffees with Red Bulls and locking in to study for the exams.
Whether it’s a quiet spot at Mugar Library, a sunny day at BU Beach or a comfortable dorm room, students are trying everything to be productive — and music is helping them to de-stress.
To find out what students are listening to, I asked some of my fellow students to share their go-to tracks that put them in a happy mood. From ‘90s alt-rock to current pop ballads — even a splash of RuPaul — there’s a song here for everyone.
If you are into heavy metal, then “Me Wise Magic” by Van Halen will instantly lift your mood. The atmospheric sound of this song is perfect to create a relaxing mood without being too distracting.
Blast this song on your headphones and work out in the gym — I think it’s a perfect pick to help you destress.
If slow, dramatic music is more your preference and you’re a fan of Harry Styles, then “Sign of the Times” is the ideal song for you.
The cinematic, almost anthemic feel of the song can distract you from all your worries. The slow build, followed by Styles’ soaring vocals, makes the song feel like an epic journey, which can help you feel motivated.
For those who need a bit of nostalgia to get through finals, I would recommend “Runaway Train” by Soul Asylum.
This ‘90s rock track, with its calm beats and a melancholic tone, has an unusual uplifting quality. Although hard-hitting, the lyrics mirror the rollercoaster of emotions that students feel during the finals. Pair this song with a long walk, and you’ve got yourself a great destressor.
“Supermodel (You Better Work)” by RuPaul is another recommendation for anyone looking for a different vibe. This song will bring pure energy to your playlist with its upbeat tempo. The dance-worthy track is a zippy pop anthem that will elevate your mood instantly and encourage you to power through finals season.
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros’ “Home” is a popular song on Instagram that can help anyone through the stress they might feel when working on an assignment.
The tranquil notes, the sweet voices and the lyrics feel magical and make you feel at home. The song gives hope that everything will get better in the end — something all students need to remember in stressful times.
For me, “Glass, Concrete & Stone” by David Byrne is the go-to song for motivation.
I first heard this song on “The Bear.” In a compelling scene, the viewers watch a montage of Richard “Richie” Jerimovich going through his daily routine with a dazed or tired look on his face as the song plays in the background.
Listening to this song, which has a lively tune, always motivates me. The lyrics are very relatable to me, and I always listen to this song when I feel low.
And with that, you now have so many new songs to add to your playlist. Listening to music can really help calm the nerves, and a little bit of Van Halen, Harry Styles and RuPaul will definitely help you feel better.
