Spotify seems to have a playlist for virtually every occasion you would need. Most are titled according to mood, genre, or content. Some, however, are split into categories according to activity. Recently I discovered that one of their genres “Word” offers a variety of playlists to fit almost any non-music listening mood. I have compiled a list of reviews of some of these playlists in the hope that they can be explored by others. These musings are by no means comprehensive and are completely subjective.
“Learn French”
Initial Reaction: This playlist is a collection of French lessons from a variety of providers. As a French student, I could only imagine using this as a form of practicing my pronounciation. Even then, they aren’t set up in a conventional plan and because it’s on spotify, there isn’t an available lesson plan to follow along on.
Final Thoughts: Good idea in theory, not practical in reality.
“Audiobooks”
Initial Reaction: So this is basically a free version of Audible? The selection is pretty slim but the description states that it is frequently updated.
Final Thoughts: Didn’t know I wanted to listen to “1984” while I run but you learn new things every day.
“Guided Meditation”
Initial Reaction: One time my friend told me to download a meditation app and when I tried it I fell asleep halfway through. I would like to get to a point in my life where I can meditate without falling asleep. The guided meditation I listed to was relaxing and soothing and it includes a husky, British, male voice and the sound of the sea shore in the background.
Final Thoughts: Pick your guided meditation track wisely. Not all have a hot British guy whispering positive affirmations in your ear and some are surprisingly religious.
“Presidential Voices”
Initial Reaction: A one-stop shop for your most famous presidential speeches. As this crap-shoot of an election season crawls along, it’s nice to mentally rewind back to 2009 when Obama gave his inaugural address. Will I listen to this in my free time? Probably not, but it’s a good source of inspiration for your next in-class presentation.
Final Thoughts: Why can’t Obama stay a little longer?
“Self Help Gems”
Initial Reaction: I was a little confused by this playlist. They had a track titled “How to Take Photographs like a Seasoned Pro” which is a 35 minute how-to which regales the benefits of digital photography. The playlist also included a series on college study tips and how to get the most out of your learning. Who exactly is the target audience for this playlist? What teenager going to college isn’t going to be able to figure out a digital camera?
Final Thoughts: This seems like the kind of playlist my mom would encourage me to listen to.