It may be beneficial to listen to music you are familiar with if you need to intensely focus on a project.
New music is surprising; since you don’t know what to expect, you are inclined to listen closely to see what comes next.

Familiarity is best for focus

With so much of our time being spent at work, and so much of our work being done at computers, music has become inseparable from our day-to-day tasks — a way to “optimize the boring” while looking at screens.

Music and work

When a task is clearly defined and repetitive in nature, music makes it more enjoyable.
It isn’t the music itself, but rather the improved mood your favorite music brings that will give a boost in productivity.

Music and repetitive tasks

Moderate noise level can get creative juices flowing, but the line is easily crossed; loud noises made it incredibly difficult to concentrate.
Bellowing basses and screeching synths will do you more harm than good when engaging in deep work.

Ambient noise

For low-immersion or physical tasks, music with lyrics can offer huge benefits. 
But trying to engage in language-related tasks( e.g. writing ) while listening to lyrics would be akin to holding a conversation while another person talks over you… while also strumming a guitar. Lyrics are often a no-go.

Lyrics are often distracting

<ul>
<li>Classical music: No lyrics are always a popular choice.</li>
<li>Electronic music: It’s repetitive but in a good way.</li>
<li>Video-game music: Game composers know the ideal music enhances the experience while not distracting the player.</li>
<li>Anything soft enough to not divert attention and focus is a great addition to your playlist .</li>
<li>White noise or nature sounds.</li>
</ul>

Music for better productivity and focus

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Music and Productivity

Music is regarded as one of the triumphs of human creativity. But does music itself help one to create? It's a question worth asking, since music has increasingly become a part of the modern-day workplace. Music has a strange temporal permanence; as art decorates space, so does music decorate time.

Lyrics are often distracting

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Lyrics can be distracting