Even though I’m only 25, I can say that I’ve been a graphic designer for over 10 years now. Almost all of my creativity is derived from listening to different genres of music depending on the project. From Smooth Jazz to Hardcore, I can dig just about anything! As of writing this article, Avicii is my current Pandora station. Mornings are a little easier going, so I try to start off with something a little lighter like Foster the People. As the afternoon continues, I begin to grasp for any extra energy I can find to finish the day and electronic seems to be the driving factor to get through the final 4 hours.

The genre of music will always affect the outcome of each project. Some projects like Noonie’s Thai Café menu was narrated by Breakbot & Madeon. The design stayed simple in terms of layout yet the dirtiness of the background and supporting elements added a little complexity to the overall product.

Other projects, like Poppy’s Time-Out Sports Bar Menu required some heavier listening. Four Year Strong tricked me into following the menu down a dark alley by doing the grungy chalkboard layout. With some help on the illustrations, the overall menu concept only took a few hours to develop once the theme was set.

A much older project, one not to be found in the Think portfolio, was a website design for a church back in 2008. I believe Spyro Gyra and The Rippingtons made the First Presbyterian Church of Destin website come alive. The design stayed clean and light – perfect for a church project.

Across the room, Steve Weid is designing a logo for a band and jamming out to The Refused. Although his style and mine differ greatly, music still affects the outcome of his projects as much as they do my own. If I had to pass any advice on to another designer it would be to choose your music wisely! If you don’t know where you’re going on a project, change up your genre and see where you continue. Good luck and happy designing!

Be sure to check out the following artists if you’re looking for something new!
Madeon
Breakbot
Avicii
Four Year Strong
The Refused
Spyro Gyra
The Rippingtons