20 science-backed songs to boost focus and work productivity

Your attention span is now officially shorter than a goldfish, according to a study. With around nine out of ten workers struggling to stay focused, and “distracted minds” costing the UK economy £19.9 billion a year, it’s no surprise that searches for “how to be more productive” have surged by 250% on Google.

But do you know that music could be the secret to sharpening your focus? A Spotify study reveals that songs between 50 to 80 beats per minute (BPM) range can help put your brain in a more focused and creative zone – perfect for tasks like studying, working and brainstorming.

Curious to find the ultimate focus boosters, the experts at Vape Globe scoured the most popular productivity and creativity playlists on Spotify to uncover the best tracks for mind-wanderers seeking a productivity boost.

Struggling to focus? The ultimate productivity playlist your boss will approve of

For the complete data for all songs analysed, please click here.

The legendary Queen anthem “Bohemian Rhapsody” is not just a rock masterpiece, but also the ultimate focus booster with a BPM of 71. The song’s fluctuating structure – from soft ballads to operatic crescendos and hard rock riffs – mirrors the natural ebb and flow of concentration and creative bursts. This makes it the perfect soundtrack for stimulating the brain during complex tasks that require deep mental engagement.

Known for its mellow, hypnotic rhythm, Arctic Monkeys’ “I Wanna Be Yours” offers a calming influence that helps minimise distractions. At 68 BPM, the track’s simple yet resonant lyrics, paired with a repetitive beat creates a soothing environment ideal for long periods of sustained attention – whether you’re writing, coding or engaging in deep analysis.

With a steady beat at 73 BPM, Bruno Mars’ soulful ballad, “When I Was Your Man” is great for tasks requiring focus without overwhelming the mind. The soft piano and heartfelt vocals engage your brain without pulling it in too many directions, making it an excellent soundtrack for introspective tasks like journaling, brainstorming, or creative writing.

Soaring at 75 BPM, “Ride” by Twenty One Pilots features a rhythmic bass line and catchy melody that provides that extra motivational boost during tedious or repetitive tasks. The bridge, “I’ve been thinking too much, help me”, serves as a gentle reminder to push through when mental fatigue kicks in – best for times when you are tackling  long projects or meeting tight deadlines.

Tyler, The Creator’s dreamy, laid-back track “See You Again” featuring ethereal vocals from Kali Uchis  brings a sense of calm focus to your workspace, creating an ambient backdrop that keeps your mind from wandering too far.

Paced at 69 BPM, Taylor Swift’s “Lover” secures a position in the top ten, thanks to its nostalgic themes and gentle melodies making it a perfect companion for enhancing productivity.

The experts at Vape Globe, commented on the attention crisis exacerbated by digital technologies and how music can serve as a remedy:

“Today’s world is flooded with constant distractions, and our attention spans are suffering as a result. The right track doesn’t just drown out the noise – it actively creates a mental environment that helps you lock into your tasks and push through distractions.

What makes music so powerful is its ability to engage the brain’s reward centres, significantly boosting motivation and cognitive performance. Whether it’s a steady rhythm or a calming melody, the right playlist can help you enter a productive flow state, where time flies and focus sharpens. This goes beyond just enjoying music, it’s about leveraging sound to transform how you approach work, study, or creative endeavours, allowing you to work smarter, not harder.”