Music is a perfect pairing for writing. It can provide inspiration, pace and block out annoying noises. But it’s gotta be the right music.
The key pre-requisite for me is NO LYRICS. Words distract me and sometimes randomly appear in my manuscript.
This is what I listen to while writing.
Soundtracks
Soundtracks for films and television are a great background for writing. So long as the music is not too familiar, otherwise I get distracted and start humming along. My favourite composers here; Clint Mansell, Two Steps from Hell, Hans Zimmer, Yann Tiersen, Nils Frahm.
Modern Classical
“Old” classical can be too familiar to me (see above re: distraction), so I really enjoy the experimental “modern” classical music. The Scandinavians and Icelandic seem to dominate in this genre; Olafur Arnalds, Dustin O’Halloran (not quite Scando), Hildur Guonadottir.
Gaming Music
Like movie and TV soundtracks, gaming music can provide pace and the right mood. Especially for action and fight scenes.
Not Frogger.
Ambient
I don’t mean Ambient EDM/techno, I mean proper ambient with no bass. Soundscapes and aural wallpaper. The big guy here is Brian Eno.
Nature Sounds
Sometimes I get into the zone with nature sounds; forests, birds, wind, thunder, rain.
White Noise
White, pink, brown – who knew there were so many colours of noise. This is great for sealing out the world, although I do have nagging concerns about being brainwashed with the theta waves. Maybe I’ve watched too much X-files. Excuse me while I go all Manchurian Candidate.
Meditation music
Meditation music is my current favourite for writing. Lots of bells, chanting and new agey stuff. The music is calm and repetitive, also the tracks are really long (up to 60 mins). So the music doubles as a timer. When the music stops, take a break!
Drew Martin
I can write or edit to music with lyrics, but I will agree that the Meditation music is really good as well. I find it best to read to, letting it block out all sounds.