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

Cold Little HeartMichael Kiwanuka

Michael Kiwanuka – Cold Little Heart (Official Video)

A roughly 10-minute epic that begins with a grand opening.

It expresses inner conflict and self-loathing through profound lyrics and an emotionally rich vocal performance.

Included on Michael Kiwanuka’s album “Love & Hate,” released in July 2016, it was used as the theme song for the HBO series Big Little Lies.

Its unique sound world—melding soulful resonance with rock elements—is a track best savored in a quiet night or a calm café.

Recommended for those who value time spent facing themselves.

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.