[2026] Great Songs to Boost Focus — Perfect for Studying and Working Out

Gymnopédie No.1Erik Satie

Gymnopédie No. 1

Composer Erik Satie, often described as France’s enfant terrible.

Among his piano works, this piece stands out for its quiet, crystal-clear melody that invites deep immersion.

First published in August 1888 in a magazine, it is a historic work also known through Debussy’s arrangement and its frequent use in commercials, such as Shiseido’s “Ag+” and Staff Service’s “O-Jinji.” With a sound that never overstates itself and blends naturally into the space like “furniture music,” it’s ideal for times when you want to focus on studying or reading.

Its gently wistful triple meter soothes anxious feelings.

A perfect track for anyone wishing to calm the mind and work quietly.

Victory LapFred again.. x Skepta x PlaqueBoyMax

Fred again.. x Skepta x PlaqueBoyMax – Victory Lap (NYC, 17th June 2025)

Victory Lap, a collaboration between Fred again.., a leading figure in the electronic scene, and grime heavyweight Skepta.

In June 2025, the production process was revealed via a live stream on Twitch, and the track was released with that same raw energy—quickly becoming a hot topic.

Over a heavy bass and a driving 140 BPM beat, a powerful message rings out, charging forward with the certainty of victory.

Its positive, success-driven lyrics deliver a surge of energy perfect for pushing your limits in intense training or dialing in your focus to the max.

Rising talent Playboi Maxx also joins the track, offering a cross-generational spark you can feel.

Make this your go-to BGM for those make-or-break moments.

aruarian danceNujabes

aruarian dance

You want to focus on studying or work, but you can’t help tensing up your shoulders sometimes, right? In moments like that, there’s an instrumental masterpiece by Nujabes that gently loosens the heart.

It’s included on the soundtrack album “samurai champloo music record ‘departure,’” released in June 2004.

Known as part of the score for the anime Samurai Champloo, it’s a track that continues to be loved around the world.

The soft tones of the guitar intertwine with a pleasant beat, and as you listen, it feels as if you’re standing in a quiet landscape.

Because there are no lyrics, it doesn’t interfere with your thoughts—perfect for times when you want to dive deep into concentration.

Give it a listen when you want to take a breather and refresh yourself, too.

Keep OnAlfa Mist

Keep On

If you’re someone who wants to focus deeply in a quiet environment, this piece by London-based keyboardist Alfa Mist is a must-listen.

It fuses the beautiful harmonies of jazz with hip-hop–inspired, comforting beats to gently calm the mind.

His self-taught piano background shines through in a free-spirited sensibility, and the introspective yet resolute band groove naturally enhances your immersion in any task.

The track appears on the acclaimed 2017 album Antiphon and has captivated many fans in live performances.

With its understated, spacious production, it’s perfect for late-night exam study sessions, reading, or any moment when you want to slip into your own world in silence.

StrongerKanye West

Kanye West – Stronger

A signature track by Kanye West that fused techno and hip-hop and became a global hit.

Inspired by Nietzsche’s aphorism, the lyrics celebrate an indomitable spirit—adversity is what makes you stronger—and the song is sure to ignite your fighting spirit from within.

Featured on the 2007 album “Graduation,” it drew attention for its bold sampling of a Daft Punk track and was also used in films like The Hangover Part II.

It’s perfect for cranking up your energy during workouts and for tackling tough study sessions.

Even when you feel like giving up, this song will spur you on—so ride the rhythm and push past your limits!

White GlovesKhruangbin

Khruangbin – White Gloves (Official Video)

A masterpiece by Khruangbin, the Texas-born trio, perfect for calming the mind and entering a deep state of focus.

It features a gentle groove and delicate vocals that melt into the instrumentation, quietly sketching the story of a noble woman wearing white gloves.

Included on their album “The Universe Smiles Upon You,” released in November 2015, the track was also used in the film Lonely Planet.

The unique sense of weightless drift—born from the band’s deep immersion in old Thai music—clears away extraneous thoughts and helps you sink into the task at hand.

Rather than an intense beat, its easy, wave-like rhythm sharpens the senses, making it ideal for late-night study sessions and creative work.

HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

Pharrell Williams, who has been driving the music scene since the ’90s with innovative sounds as The Neptunes, created this track for the 2013 film Despicable Me 2.

It’s brimming with an uplifting energy that makes your body start moving the moment you hear it.

The powerful lyrics declaring happiness in the face of any adversity, coupled with a funky, clap-along beat, make it a pure burst of positive energy.

Featured on his 2014 album G I R L and winner of a Grammy, it’s a modern classic.

The 24-hour music video also made headlines, and it’s hard to imagine a better pick for moments when you want to boost motivation and lose yourself in exercise like running or training.