What Is Chillout Music? | Introducing Popular Tracks
Lately, you hear the term “chillout” all over the place.
It’s a commonly heard word, but I think few people actually know what it means.
Music that helps you relax is called chillout music, but it’s not just about relaxing—chillout music also refers to sounds that help you “stay alert” or “feel clear-headed.”
In short, it’s kind of like a coffee break.
This time, we’ve picked out some popular chillout tracks.
We’ve selected a wide range—from relatively recent songs to timeless classics—so if you want to get a deeper understanding of chillout music, be sure to read through to the end.
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What Is Chillout Music? | Introducing Popular Tracks (1–10)
BelfastOrbital
Orbital is a British techno unit formed by brothers.
Alongside Underworld and The Chemical Brothers, they had a major impact on the 1990s techno scene.
Among their works, the one I’d recommend as chill-out music is Belfast.
It features ethereal female choral vocals and sounds that were cutting-edge at the time.
The playful structure, where the BPM drops as the track progresses toward the end, is particularly charming.
Green ArrowYo La Tengo
Yo La Tengo is an American alternative rock band formed in 1984.
They incorporate a wide range of genres—including alternative rock, indie rock, shoegaze, and dream pop—and have gained popularity for their broad musical palette.
Among their works, a track I recommend as chill-out music is Green Arrow.
While it’s crafted with a blues-tinged melody, it intriguingly avoids the heat typically associated with the blues, making it a captivating number with a unique structure.
HeldKiasmos
Kiasmos is a techno duo from Iceland.
They excel across a range of genres—electronica, electro-pop, IDM, and techno—and have built a strong following, especially in Europe.
Among their works, the chillout track Held is particularly popular.
While it isn’t exactly slow in tempo, its overall restrained melody makes it a great choice when you want to focus on something.
What Is Chillout Music? | Introducing Popular Tracks (11–20)
Little Fluffy CloudsThe Orb
The Orb is a British techno group formed in 1988.
As pioneers of ambient house, they helped energize the techno music scene of the 1990s.
Among their works, a track I recommend as chillout music is Little Fluffy Clouds.
While it carries a vibe reminiscent of 1990s adult contemporary, it features calm, chill phrases throughout.
If you don’t want to lose focus during study or work breaks, be sure to check it out!
Rose Wreath CrownKali Malone
Kali Malone is an artist based in Stockholm, Sweden.
What sets her apart is her musical style that blends traditional Western music with cutting-edge electronic music.
The exquisite harmony born from old and new is striking.
Among her works, the one I recommend as chill-out music is Rose Wreath Crown.
It’s a piece that uses organ and is crafted with a melancholic atmosphere.
RoscoeMidlake
Midlake is an American indie rock band that has gained popularity in Europe.
They also excel in psychedelic and folk rock, and their soft, hazy sound is distinctive.
Their track “Roscoe” showcases their individuality to the fullest: while the bassline is serious, the refined arrangement gives off an airy, delicate atmosphere.
The vocals are gently understated as well, making it a perfect fit for chillout music.
StormRare Silk
An American jazz vocal group formed in 1978.
Unlike other popular jazz groups of the time, they had a distinctive musical style that incorporated the latest sounds.
Among their works, the most popular is Storm.
It’s a piece marked by African-style drums and a dreamy chorus.
And of course, since they’re a jazz vocal group, an adult, stylish saxophone appears during the instrumental break.
If you’re looking to chill out with a unique kind of jazz, be sure to check it out.