An Art Director’s Infinite Playlists

As an Art Director I look to many places for inspiration. But my appreciation for creativity doesn’t end with visual arts. Listening to music and discovering new artists brings me great joy—and helps set the tone for whatever I happen to be working on that day. Creating a great playlist can be quite time consuming if you’re already on a hot deadline though, so I have compiled 5 playlists to share with you, each with a different purpose.

I made an extra effort to not repeat artists and feature a variety, emphasizing artists with fewer than 100,000 listeners (monthly on Spotify). Naturally the genres are a little biased to my tastes but you’ll find an eclectic mix of Bedroom Pop, Alt Rock, Electronic, Indie, Rap and more. Each of the songs has captured me at one time or another for its unique characteristics. I want you to hear something you’ve never heard before and come away inspired.

Deadlines and Due Dates: When the deadline is looming

This first playlist consists of fast paced, often gritty, songs with a strong, pushing beat creating a musical urgency. The perfect playlist for when you have 2 hours’ worth of work you’re trying to finish in the next 45 mins (or 41 mins 36 seconds). Put on your noise cancelling headphones and let this playlist fuel your designing fury.

Just Jammin’: When you’re in a groove

The work-horse playlist. Designed to keep your head bopping to good vibes as you concept for that next project, try an alternate layout or just generally need to get a good hour of work done without worrying what song to play next.

Copywriter’s Special: No words or minimal English

Working late with your favorite Copywriter? Or maybe writing for the agency blog? Never fear, I have a playlist for that as well! It can be tricky to listen to words when you’re trying to craft your own, so here is a 40-minute set for you to DJ for the copywriter in your life.

Art Direction Alley: Songs that make me think about Art Direction

This one is a little more fun. Some are very clear why they’ve joined this list from the title (can’t have CMYK without Magenta!) Others, well, you’ll just have to take a listen.

Motivation Montage: To remind yourself, you’ve got this

This last playlist is the most important. Working in a creative field opens you up to a lot of criticism and critique. Most of us develop a thick skin rather quickly, but it doesn’t mean self-doubt doesn’t creep in from time to time. Presenting to a client? Leading a meeting? Fighting for a design you really believe in? Smash this play button and blast away the haters.

I hope you find a playlist, artist or even one song that tickles your brain, leaves you inspired or fuels you for your next creative project. If you find yourself needing more creative support than a playlist, the minds at BatesMeron are listening!