With finals approaching at Mississippi State University, many students are logging long hours in the library and turning to music to tune out distractions and stay focused. Drawing from an eclectic mix of tastes and genres, this curated playlist is designed to lift students’ spirits and remind them to keep pushing forward.
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan is an ironic pick for finals week, vocalizing that “I’m barely hanging on but still trying” feeling. However, its slow melodic tune creates a calm, humorous sound to keep students light-hearted and focused.
“Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses” is a go-to for people who want something slower and a bit dramatic while they reread lecture notes for the fifth time. It is a classic loved by many, with gentle lyrics and sounds that are not too distracting.
“Adagio for Strings, Op.11” by Samuel Barber
Classical pieces are not off the table either for this finals season. Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings, Op.11” is a beautiful piece that brings a calm, emotional atmosphere, perfect for students who need something steady and moving while they work through tough material.
“Vienna” by Billy Joel
Billy Joel’s “Vienna” reflects on themes such as aging and learning to stay present throughout life. The song’s lyrics, “Slow down you crazy child. You’re so ambitious for a juvenile,” especially remind stressed students to slow down and breathe for a second.
“You Stole the Show” by Sienna Spiro and “Loud” by Olivia Dean
Some newer songs like Sienna Spiro’s “You Stole the Show” and Olivia Dean’s “Loud” are popular this year, adding a fun, modern touch to this finals playlist and keeping the vibes high. “You Stole the Show” is a soulful ballad that describes various ways people perform for connection. Olivia Dean’s “Loud” is another heartbreaking ballad that captures the pain of heartbreak.
“We Are the People” by Empire of the Sun
Another upbeat pick includes “We Are the People” by Empire of the Sun, which helps students to wake up when the caffeine is not doing it anymore. This fast-paced song captures the ideas of unity, love and nostalgia. When listening to the song, it evokes a summer feel and freedom from work.
“We’re All in This Together” from “High School Musical”
“We’re All in This Together,” the nostalgic anthem from High School Musical, is sure to lift students’ spirits. Rooted in themes of unity and camaraderie, the song reminds listeners that no one is facing finals week alone. Its upbeat, pep-rally energy, complete with whistles and marching-band sounds, taps into familiar high-school memories, offering a comforting dose of nostalgia that can help ease the pressure of the season.
“The Final Countdown” by Europe
“The Final Countdown” by Europe motivates and reminds students to finish out classes strong. This song is a timeless anthem that celebrates significant events and quests for new beginnings.
“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd and “At Last!” by Etta James
The playlist closes with “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, a fitting anthem for the freedom that comes with finishing classes—whether just for the semester or, for seniors, for good. Finally, “At Last” by Etta James brings a sense of relief and joy, echoing the feeling students experience when they’ve made it through the stress of finals and testing at last.
With deadlines hitting fast, this mix of emotional, chill and powerful tracks can help students stay focused or at least keep going as they push toward the end of the semester.
