If you’ve been fortunate enough to read any one of Japanese author Haruki Murakami’s novels, you’ll be aware of his love for music.

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If his first passion is writing, music comes a close second and his award-winning books, including Kafka on the Shore and 1Q84, all include a diverse range of musical references, from jazz, to classical to American pop.

Murakami himself announced that he always listens to music when he works:

Music brings a warm glow to my vision, thawing mind and muscle from their endless wintering.

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In a way, you might say that the author himself might not have continued with his worldwide success in the literary world had it not been for the inspiration he has found in his record collection. Apparently he first discovered jazz at the age of 15 and until age 30, he ran a jazz club before suddenly becoming a novelist after having an epiphany at a sports game. You can hear more about that in the story below:

If you’re still reading this then I’m going to assume that you’re a Murakami fan. If not, then you are at least interested in becoming one, and what better place to start than with his record collection? Thankfully, someone named Masamaro Fujiki has put together an epic playlist of 3,144 Murakami-inspired songs, consisting mostly of jazz and classical. Enjoy:

For more Murakami magic, check out his working space. Dreamy.