Cardiff As a Vibe: The Ultimate Uni Life Spotify Playlist

By a third-year Cathays student who’s seen it all

Let’s face it—uni life in Cardiff is a rollercoaster. From the electrifying buzz of Freshers’ Week to the serene moments in Bute Park, every experience has its own soundtrack. Drawing inspiration from the top-charting hits of 2024 and 2025, here’s your Ultimate Cardiff Uni Spotify Playlist to accompany every uni mood.

Freshers’ Week Energy – “Main Character Moments”

You’re new to the city, the excitement is palpable, and every night holds the promise of unforgettable memories. These tracks will keep the energy soaring:

Top tracks:

• Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
  An infectious beat that’s as invigorating as your first night out in Cardiff
• Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter
  A chart-topper that captures the thrill of new beginnings
• Texas Hold ‘Em – Beyoncé
  A modern anthem to kick start any party
• Lose Control – Teddy Swims
  Let loose and dance like there’s no tomorrow
• Flowers – Miley Cyrus
  An empowering tune for making new memories

Rainy Days in Cathays – “Drizzly Walks and Deep Thoughts”

Cardiff’s drizzle is legendary. Whether you’re heading to lectures or cozying up indoors, these songs are perfect companions:

Top tracks:

• Stick Season – Noah Kahan
  Melancholic melodies for those introspective rainy walks
• Too Sweet – Hozier
  Soulful tunes that resonate with the rhythm of the rain
• Birds of a Feather – Billie Eilish
  A haunting melody that mirrors the overcast skies
• Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield
  An uplifting classic to brighten the gloomiest days
• Viva La Vida – Coldplay
  Epic sounds for those cinematic rain-soaked moments

Deadline Season – “Caffeine & Concentration”

The library becomes your second home, and caffeine your best friend. Stay focused with these chart-toppers:

Top tracks:

• Denial Is a River – Doechii
  A rhythmic track to keep you in the zone.
• People Watching – Sam Fender
  Melodic tunes for background concentration.
• Bad Dreams – Teddy Swims
  A soulful reminder that the grind will pay off.
• Run – Stephen Fretwell
  Gentle acoustics to ease the stress.
• Arm’s Length – Sam Fender
  Keeping you company during those late-night study sessions.

Post-Night-Out Vibes – “Recovery Mode”

After a memorable night in the SU or city centre, these tunes will help you recuperate:

Top tracks:

• Taste – Sabrina Carpenter
  Smooth vibes to ease you into the morning after.
• Here In Your Arms – Nathan Dawe, Abi Flynn
  Soft beats for a gentle recovery.
• Embers – James Arthur
  Reflective melodies for those quiet moments.
• All The Stars – Kendrick Lamar, SZA
  A soothing track to accompany your return.
• Sailor Song – Gigi Perez
  Gentle rhythms to lull you back to sleep.

Golden Hour in Bute Park – “Serene Sunset Sounds”

For those tranquil moments when Cardiff’s beauty truly shines, these songs set the perfect mood:

Top tracks:

• We Pray – Coldplay feat. Little Simz, Burna Boy, Elyanna & Tini
  An uplifting collaboration that complements the sunset.
• Good Luck, Babe! – Chappell Roan
  A mellow tune for reflective strolls.
• Yellow – Wes Nelson
  Smooth vocals that match the evening glow.
• Popular – Ariana Grande
  A laid-back track for unwinding.
• Hot To Go! – Chappell Roan
  Chill beats for those peaceful park moments.

Uni life in Cardiff is a symphony of experiences, each with its own rhythm and melody. This playlist, inspired by the UK’s top hits of 2024 and 2025, has been my perfect companion through it all. Find yourself a track that defines your Cardiff experience and enjoy the journey.

Muskaan Pahwa from India, 3rd year BA Journalism, Media and English Literature.