Electronic dance music (EDM) has a long and complicated history with illicit drug use, ranging from a Molly (MDMA) scare at music festivals a few years ago, to a current correlations between opioid usage and EDM partygoers. More generally, the genre is commonly associated with the cramped, dark, and loud environment of clubs, and has earned the poor reputation of appealing only to younger, dumber listeners. The electronically-generated noises of EDM songs, coupled with redundant rhythms and predictable drops, results in it being scorned by many as barely music, unable to earn respect from any critics.  Yet these very characteristics are what makes EDM perfect for something else entirely—studying.

It has been proven that music increases concentration. Experts advise specifically listening to songs without lyrics, which have enough noise to keep your subconscious mind occupied, while also not distracting you from the task at hand. Ironically, EDM, the very music that is so frequently associated with drunken teenagers partying in mosh pits and dingy basements, fits this bill perfectly. The fast-paced tempo of EDM can even increase blood pressure and heart rate, making this playlist perfect for when you need that final push of adrenaline to power through finals season. Or, if you want to procrastinate a few more days, you could always take this song set and live it up at a club.

Blackmill – Spirit of Life

This song is perfect for easing you into the drudgery of studying. The soft sounds of waves crashing ashore gradually give way to a piano melody and synth dubstep, Blackmill’s signature style, with just enough drops to keep your brain occupied, and to keep you off of your Instagram feed. Although this song is on the slower side, with a tempo hovering just above 60 beats per minute, this actually makes the track nearly perfect for studying to according to science.

 

The Xx – Intro

Man is this beat addictive. The seemingly basic background rhythm, transforming into something complex and beautiful. The restrained tempo and muted volume, somehow still energetic enough to help you power through that final essay. The random band, that, through this song alone, attracted the attention of millions of fans, and even Rihanna herself. This song is almost as contradictory as finals season and happiness.

 

Airtones – Strike (Radio Edit)

Is this song a studying song? A workout song? A partying song? Who knows! But the fast tempo of the piece pumps just enough adrenaline in you to make you fear your imminent F’s, removal from college, and return to your parents’ basement. Better start studying!

 

Tobu – Infectious

In case the last song didn’t do it for you, this one should definitely help in jumpstarting your brain. The running line of music under the main melody is basically mind-candy, and may even help you enjoy the torturous work of cramming the night before your final. No promises though.

 

Mitis & Mahi – Blu

The ghostly electric whines, the keyboard melodies, the laser-y sounds, the dubstep drum beat—all of these elements make Blu feel almost outer space-themed. Not to worry though, a passing grade is much closer to you than any celestial body!

 

Alan Walker – Faded (instrumental) 

Norwegian artist Alan Walker produced his hit single Faded, which garnered international fame and over one billion Youtube views, at just 18 years old after years of dedication and hard work. With some diligence and perseverance, you too can achieve greatness! (albeit a few years later)

 

Faux Tales – Atlas

This song opens with a melodic piano line, propped up by background echos of a synthesizer. It almost feels more like a fast-paced lullaby than anything dance-worthy. But alas, just over a minute in, the beat drops and shatters all expectations. Just like how you are going to shatter that curve on your final exams.

 

Elektronomia – Sky High

C’mon just a little bit more studying to go! This track’s uptempo beat and addictively incessant melody will surely push you that extra bit to go over that last set of review questions that you’ve been avoiding.

 

Jai Wolf – Indian Summer

Congratulations, you made it! This song epitomizes the unrestrained joy of summer, complete with a music video of the artist running around on crazy random adventures! With your own upcoming weeks of post-finals freedom, you too can run across a desert, check out the beach with some friends, and fall in love. Or I mean, Netflix and sleeping works too. Up to you.

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Although EDM is notorious for being played in dingy party scenes and overcrowded clubs, this genre can be more than just background music for a high. With a smidgen of creativity and an open mind, the amazing versatility of EDM might finally be realized, because EDM is so much more than what people make it out to be.