Recommended BGM: A collection of songs you’ll want to listen to for remote work and tasks

energy flowSakamoto Ryuichi

Ryuichi Sakamoto — energy flow

This is a masterpiece whose delicate, translucent piano tones gently soothe the heart.

The clear, pristine melody played by Ryuichi Sakamoto tenderly accompanies the listener, like a breeze rippling across the surface of water.

Released in May 1999 as a theme for a Daiichi Sankyo pharmaceutical commercial, this piece achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first instrumental work to top the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, its simple yet deeply expressive sound resonating with many.

Its pleasant sense of weightlessness offers a moment of peace from a busy day, aids concentration, and provides a serene companion for quiet reading—creating a truly healing experience.

Chamber Of ReflectionMac DeMarco

Chamber Of Reflection

A track distinguished by its dreamy synthesizer tones.

Centered on themes of introspection and solitude, it sings about the importance of stepping away from everyday life to face yourself.

Included on the April 2014 album “Salad Days,” it became one of Mac DeMarco’s signature works.

It also gained attention on social media like TikTok, strongly influencing younger audiences.

With its laid-back beat and profound message, it’s a song best suited for times when you want to listen alone and reflect.

Put it on while relaxing at a café, and it becomes a soothing piece that calms the mind.

VariablesAlfa Mist

Alfa Mist – “Variables” (Full Album)

This track is characterized by a calm atmosphere and a deep, rich sound.

Featured on the album “Variables,” released in April 2023, it presents a captivating blend of jazz, R&B, and rap.

Showcasing Alfa Mist’s talent to the fullest, the piece stands out with delicate piano performance and expressive saxophone and trumpet tones that grip the listener and don’t let go.

It also incorporates elements of South African folk songs and energetic drumming, reflecting a diverse musical palette.

It’s a perfect choice for background music while working remotely or studying, and is recommended for those who want to boost their concentration.

Cutting Room I (Top Boy Official Score)Brian Eno

Cutting Room I | Top Boy | Official Score | Netflix

This piece by Brian Eno is part of a score created for the Netflix drama Top Boy.

Expansive and ambient, it features a simple, intuitive melody.

Serving as music that conveys emotions and atmosphere in sync with the visuals, it powerfully enhances the story’s emotional dimensions beyond what words can express.

It was released digitally in September 2023, with a physical edition slated for release on September 29 of the same year.

It’s a great track for boosting concentration or quiet reflection, and it also works well as background music for remote work or studying.

Almost blueChet Baker

Chet Baker – Almost blue

This piece is performed by Chet Baker.

He is a jazz musician, famous as a leading trumpeter of West Coast jazz.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s a recommended track for anyone looking to unwind.

SelfCleo Sol

Self

It’s a heartwarming song themed around self-discovery and introspection, brimming with Cleo Sol’s charm.

It’s one of the standout tracks on her album “Heaven,” released in September 2023.

Quiet yet powerful in its message, the song reminds us of the importance of cherishing ourselves.

Its distinctive musicality, infused with elements of jazz and reggae, is also captivating and soothing to the ear.

It’s a perfect recommendation for moments when you want to pause amid busy days and reflect on yourself.

It also works great as background music while working remotely, creating a calm atmosphere that helps you focus.

When you’re tired or on the verge of losing confidence, listening to it will surely give you courage.

silver skyLvta

silver sky

This track is marked by a soft guitar tone and carries a nostalgic atmosphere.

While incorporating elements of progressive rock, Lvta stays true to a mellow vibe.

Released in October 2023, the song has become popular, racking up over two million streams on Spotify in just about two months.

Its tempo and feel make it perfect as background music for studying or working, and it’s a great choice when you want to boost your focus.

With remote work on the rise, it might be just the right time to try working alongside such comfortable, soothing music.