Music Is Food For The Soul
I think I read that somewhere once but I can’t remember. Anyway, it is true, at least for me. I’ve always relied on music to cheer me up when I’m upset, or relax me when I’m tense. I can’t tell you how many tough workouts it’s gotten me through. But now I’m finding a new use for it; muse for my writing.
I can’t remember how it started but I now have a routine of making a playlist for each book I write. Each song on it either reminds me of a character, scene, or overall mood I want to work on. As I write or revise I keep that playlist on a loop, or if I’m really struggling I’ll loop the one song that relates. It really helps me get into the world I’m building or the characters head.
I’ve heard lots of writers do this so if you write and you’re not, you might consider giving it a try. There’s lots of programs and apps out there: some free, some subscription. I usually use Amazon Music since our household already has a premium account. I can even stream it through our Alexa if I want.
I’ve heard some people only listen to instrumental music because the words distract them. I totally understand. I’ve found for myself that doesn’t happen unless it’s a new song and I don’t really know the words yet. If it’s familiar to me then it becomes background noise and I only occasional tune into it.
Here’s the songs on my playlist for “Dust on the Altar”:
Whatever It Takes by Imagine Dragons – This is more for motivating me to get to writing, no matter how difficult the section I’m working on is. I just may add it to each playlist.
Dark Horse by Katy Perry – reminds me of the main character Jade
Love Don’t Die by The Fray – reminds me of her love interest Charlie
Rescue Me (How The Story Ends) by Kerrie Roberts – another Jade song
If You Only Knew by Shinedown – another Charlie song
Gold by Imagine Dragons – This reminds me of Jade’s boss and the lifestyle of the city where she lives.
Good Man by Devour the Day – I can’t tell you who this is… Spoilers
If You Only Knew by Shinedown – I had quite a bit more romance between Jade and Charlie in earlier versions but I like the song so much I’m keeping it. Maybe it will be more relevant in sequels
Bring Me to Life by Evanescence – Just love the tone of this one
Paint It, Black by Ciara – Another spoiler, sorry >:)
I Put A Spell On You by Jacquie Lee – This was for a scene I deleted but I’m keeping it on my playlist.
Battle of One by Thirty Seconds To Mars – Just a bit of wake up music.
So that’s it. Let me know what you think of my selections. Do you listen to music when you write? What are your favorite go to songs?
