A recent study has revealed a concerning decline in attention spans among today’s generation, with modern technology playing a significant role.
Around 90% of teachers surveyed have reported that digital tools and constant screen exposure have led to students becoming easily distracted, negatively impacting their ability to think critically, focus, and complete homework effectively. This shift in focus is prompting concerns about how technology is shaping young people’s learning and concentration skills.
In response to this growing issue, a new study has pointed to music as a potential solution for improving focus and boosting productivity. According to research conducted by Spotify, songs with a tempo of 50 to 80 beats per minute (BPM) can help sharpen the brain’s focus and stimulate creativity, making them ideal for tasks that require deep concentration, such as studying, working, or brainstorming.
The increasing interest in productivity has been evident with a 250% spike in searches for terms like “how to be more productive.” To help combat the growing challenge of staying focused, experts at Vape Globe examined the most popular productivity and creativity playlists on Spotify to uncover the best tracks that could enhance mental performance.
By analysing these playlists, they compiled a list of the top songs, most effectively helping people stay focused and improve their productivity.
Topping the list is Queen’s legendary Bohemian Rhapsody (71 BPM). The song’s unique structure, shifting from soft ballads to operatic crescendos and hard rock riffs, mirrors the natural ebb and flow of concentration and creativity. This makes it an ideal choice for mentally demanding tasks, as it helps the brain stay engaged and focused.
Following closely is I Wanna Be Yours by Arctic Monkeys, with a BPM of 68. Its hypnotic rhythm sets a tranquil tone, reducing distractions and creating an ideal atmosphere for maintaining focus during tasks such as writing, coding, or detailed analysis.
Bruno Mars’ When I Was Your Man (73 BPM) also makes the cut. With its soft piano and soulful vocals, the track engages the brain without overwhelming it, making it great for tasks that require focus without unnecessary mental fatigue. It’s ideal for introspective activities like journaling, creative writing, or brainstorming.
Other notable entries on the playlist include Ride by Twenty One Pilots (75 BPM) and See You Again by Tyler, the Creator, featuring Kali Uchis (79 BPM). Ride offers an upbeat, rhythmic bass line and catchy melody, perfect for providing a motivational boost during repetitive or long tasks. On the other hand, See You Again creates a soothing, ambient atmosphere that helps to maintain focus without diverting attention from the task.
Taylor Swift’s Lover (69 BPM) and Adele’s Make You Feel My Love (65 BPM) also feature in the top tracks for productivity. Their gentle melodies and emotional lyrics foster a sense of calm, making them excellent for activities that require steady concentration, such as studying, reading, or writing.
Experts from Vape Globe have highlighted how music can help counteract the impact of digital distractions on attention spans.
“The right track doesn’t just drown out the noise – it actively creates a mental environment that helps you lock into your tasks and push through distractions,” they explained.
Music engages the brain’s reward centres, significantly boosting motivation and cognitive performance. With the right playlist, individuals can enter a productive flow state, where time seems to fly by and focus sharpens.
To compile this productivity-boosting playlist, the experts at Vape Globe analysed the most popular Spotify playlists centred on focus and creativity. By examining songs within the 50 to 80 BPM range and cross-referencing millions of plays, they were able to identify the tracks that work best to enhance focus and productivity.
For the full list of tracks, visit this link.