Hannah Youds

Every now and then, I often find myself stuck on what music to listen to. Sometimes, one specific genre just isn’t good enough for listening to in the moment and a bit of variety is needed.

Below, I’ve listed five playlist titles/categories that I have in my music library and choose to listen to when the time is right. They don’t even need to be complex or specifically long. Having a range of different playlists is just good for when you’re not sure what to listen to.​
​Mood/emotions

Playlists that link to emotions and moods are always good playlists to have in your music library, ranging from happy, motivated and sad to anger, lust and positivity. When you’re in a happy mood, there’s nothing better than putting on uplifting music and what better way to prepare for this than by having a playlist at the ready? Simple.

One big recommendation of mine is creating a relaxation playlist for when you just want some downtime and escapism from the world. There are many instrumental and acoustic songs out there which fit perfectly well in this type of playlist, great for relaxing the mind.

Occasions

At Christmas, have you ever found a playlist you like but includes those Christmas classics you can’t stand? If this has happened to you, look no further! Creating a playlist for an occasion or an event is a brilliant way to get in the right spirit, whether that be Halloween, Christmas or even a birthday.

Another example is creating a playlist for a concert or festival you’re going to. Having the setlist or artist’s music in general on a playlist is a brilliant way to learn the songs and prepare for the event, meaning you’ll be able to look like a dedicated fan and belt out every word. Occasion playlists are a great way of getting hyped and are also great for reminiscing afterwards too.

Holidays

I’m a sucker for this one. Whenever we go away anywhere, whether that be a day out to London or a week away abroad, I try to make a playlist to get in the mood. For example, if you’re going to Spain, having a playlist with summer songs or songs with Spanish-influence is a great thing to have.

You would preferably want the songs in this playlist to match the mood, culture and weather of where it is you’re going to. For example, it wouldn’t be very fun walking around sunny Spain listening to songs about rainy English weather. Whatever floats your boat though!

Active

Whether you are running, horse riding, hoovering or trying to walk up Conduit Road, there’s nothing quite like a playlist for when you’re being active. Music, radio or podcasts can distract the mind from the physical side of what your body is going through and make you focus on the lyrics or beat of the song, allowing your brain to function without getting distracted easier.

If you are running, you’ll often find you’re running to the beat of a song without even thinking about it. Personally, I’d find doing physical exercise tough without listening to music and would be lost without my running playlist. That being said, I am no professional!

Guilty pleasure

Last but definitely not least, I feel like there’s nothing quite as amazing as putting on a guilty pleasure playlist when you’re in the mood for it. This could be when you’re driving or just simply reminiscing over Pop Tarts.

I would highly recommend popping ABBA at the top of this playlist, just because it’s ABBA. Guilty pleasure playlists are good for unwinding and having a bit of a sing along, especially if you’re with friends or just fancy a good karaoke session. I personally find that these are good to listen to before a night out, or simply when you’re singing in the shower.

Remember, these are my own personal opinions and if you have any playlist recommendations do let me know as I’d love to expand my own! Happy playlisting…(if that’s a thing).