Blog
The National Numeracy Numbers Playlist
29 Aug 2025
This is a blog post by Maurice Tse-Leon, Digital Engagement Manager
Sometimes we talk about numbers and maths as, somehow, being at odds with the arts.
But numbers are part of creating great art, and many musicians know this. From tempo to song length, numbers are key to creating music. They also crop up a lot in the themes and subjects musicians write about.
We asked some of the National Numeracy team to pick their favourite songs featuring numbers. Here's what they chose – enjoy!
54-46 Was My Number – Toots and the Maytals
My choice was the ska classic 54-46 Was My Number by Toots and the Maytals. The number in this song refers to the prison number Toots was given when wrongly imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. While the subject is sad, the song is just an absolute banger.
Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes
Our Head of Operations, Kate, chose a tune that has migrated into football stadiums across the country and even into politics – but mostly she's chosen it because her favourite number is 7.
1612 – Vulfpeck
Our Training Officer Iain has picked this song inspired by a daily struggle with numbers that many of us face: trying to remember key codes!
12:51 – The Strokes
The Strokes' music tends to speak for itself and Tamsin, Relationship Manager, always makes excellent music choices when we're compiling team playlists.
505 – Arctic Monkeys
Our Digital Marketing Officer Daisy chose this track as she recalls it being the first song she was emotionally affected by (apart from Whitney, obviously).
Number 1 – Goldfrapp
Our Project Manager Roné went with this one, in large part because we asked for suggestions on a Friday and it's just a good vibe for that time of the week!
40' – Franz Ferdinand
Another song using numbers with a potentially dark meaning behind it, but translates in this case to what sounds like a bouncy, catchy indie tune. This was the choice of our Communications Officer, Lizzie.
5, 6, 7, 8 – Steps
Rather than overthinking it, our Operations Assistant Jessica went with the first song that came to mind. It'll be stuck in your head all day after you listen.
21st Century Suffragette – GIRLBAND!
This choice is from our Head of Impact and Evaluation, Paul. It was fresh in his mind after seeing it performed live at a festival.
Who we are
We are a small team but a national charity, and we're the only charity that focuses on building everyday maths and number confidence to help adults and children get on in their lives. We are led by research and the needs of our beneficiaries.
Find out more about who we are and what we do as an organisation:
