I don't always listen to music when I write; sometimes it can be distracting, but other times, it actually helps me focus and get inspired. I usually stick to classical and instrumental stuff; I can only listen to songs with words if I'm really on a roll with the story already, cause otherwise I just get distracted and sing along instead of write LOL.
I have a whole folder/playlist of "writing music" - some classical stuff, instrumental versions of songs, movie scores, and that kind of thing. I pick what to listen to based on the tone of the part I'm trying to write... is it sad and angsty, suspenseful and dramatic, gooey and romantic? I'm writing scary, action-packed stuff now, so I'm trying to boost my collection of music to go with that, without being too loud and distracting. Any recommendation s? I have a ton of the sad and romantic stuff if anyone wants any recommendation s for that!