It’s safe to say that this semester has been quite an unusual one. From Zoom classes and online clubs to awkward breakout rooms, this semester has been unlike a normal year at the University. Finals season can already be a stressful time, but add in a global pandemic and online school and it becomes even more stressful. It can be hard to motivate yourself to study and stay positive as you embark on this unusual finals season. So, if you need a mood-booster for this finals season, give this motivational pop playlist a try.
“Dynamite” by BTS
This breezy, disco-pop hit from BTS is extremely catchy and will definitely get you pumped up to study for finals.
“Break My Stride” by Matthew Wilder
This quintessential '80s pop hit combines synth-pop and cool, confident lyrics to tell the story of relentless positivity. It’s a great reminder that nobody can break your stride because you’ve got this.
“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
In need of a confidence boost? “Can’t Hold Us” will take care of that for you. With its continuous message of hope and confidence, it’s guaranteed to sweep you off your feet and help you power through these last few weeks.
“You Only Live Once” by The Strokes
Unsurprisingly, The Strokes crafted a hit that you can both scream with and jam out to — whichever one fits your mood. Scream your finals frustrations out or bop along as you study for finals — take your pick.
“Knock Knock” by Mac Miller
One of Mac Miller’s best songs, “Knock Knock” captures the upbeat, chill vibe of Miller’s work as a new artist in the hip-hop scene. Featuring a catchy backing track that’s guaranteed to be an earworm and lyrics about a carefree life, “Knock Knock” will knock out any bit of sadness for the weeks ahead.
"Daphne Blue" by The Band Camino
“Daphne Blue” is a pop-rock smash that — simply put — is a total bop. With its roaring guitars and powerful vocals, this song dazzles with its epic instrumentation and almost euphoric vocals. It's a definite mood booster when finals anxiety and sadness make their way into life.
“You Better Believe!!!” by Declan McKenna
This unrelentingly positive and upbeat song is perfect to have a dance party to and melt the finals stress away.
“Mood” by 24kGoldn feat. iann dior
One of 2020’s best TikTok hits, “Mood,” is a bop. 24kGoldn and iann dior’s energy on this track is contagious as they sing about relationships and flex on others in a playful way. “Mood” captures the hype spirit that you need to make it to the finish line.
“Love Myself” by Hailee Steinfeld
Steinfeld’s “Love Myself” has an important message of self-love and self-acceptance — one that is especially relevant during a stressful time like finals season.
“High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco
This is one of the most fun and upbeat songs to ever exist. With its vibrant, charismatic vocals and electrifying instrumentation, it’s perfect for when you need a pick-me-up from a tiring late night study session.
“Canyon Moon” by Harry Styles
“Canyon Moon” speaks about having hope for better days ahead. The song has a summery vibe and is evocative of pool parties and summer road trips. It’s a great reminder of the fun summer to come and motivation to just keep going.
“Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles
As a Harry Styles fan, I couldn’t just include one Harry Styles song in this playlist. “Watermelon Sugar” is a cheerful and lighthearted mood-booster, and the music video captures summer vibes perfectly and is a reminder for all the fun you’ll have after you ace your finals.
“Savage” Remix by Megan Thee Stallion feat. Beyoncé
Simply put, this song is the ultimate confidence booster when finals stress comes creeping up. Put this song on and watch your stress melt away instantly.
“Confident” by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato’s earlier music is underrated. Though she has many power-pop anthems, “Confident” is one of her best. Her powerful vocals and the raging, energetic instrumentals make it the perfect song to hype yourself up before a final.
“Tap In” by Saweetie
This song is total celebration material. The groovy beat and cool, catchy lyrics are great to celebrate yourself and your hard work as finals season comes to a close.
“Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons
Feel like a final didn’t go well? Listen to this song from Imagine Dragons to lift your spirits and motivate yourself to get back on the grind.
“bloodline” by Ariana Grande
If you’ve been procrastinating studying, “bloodline” will give you the confident energy to motivate you to get started.
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
This final song is a reminder that no matter what happens, you’ll make it through this stressful time and that life will be okay.
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