I listen to a mix of country, jazz, rock, alternative, pop, electronic folk and some good oldies. I'm not really picky about most music just as long as it doesn't make me want to slam my head into a wall. Granted the music I enjoy listening to would make some want to slam their heads into a wall. But, when I really have to concentrate to think through an algorithm, database structure or solve a problem, I turn the music off but keep the ear buds in to block out all other noise. Gist: I found something that works for me and I stick with it.