What is soft rock? Masterpieces with captivating, soothing melodies
Soft rock soothes the soul with gentle melodies and a pop-infused sound.
Since the 1970s, this genre has softly colored the music scene, retaining rock’s power while offering mellow, approachable melodic lines.
Many listeners are surely captivated by its lyrics that, though easy on the ears, resonate deeply in the heart.
Here, we introduce a selection of gems that let you fully savor the charm of soft rock.
Enjoy discovering a wonderful new track.
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What Is Soft Rock? Masterpieces with Irresistibly Smooth Melodies (1–10)
Higher LoveSteve Winwood
Steve Winwood, the British musician known as a leading figure of blue-eyed soul.
Though he found success in various bands, this solo-era track is one I’d recommend as a soft rock classic.
It’s included on the album “Back in the High Life,” and it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts in August 1986.
Riding an exhilarating sound, the song delivers a powerful message about overcoming the emptiness of everyday life and seeking a higher, more spiritual form of love.
With sleek, quintessentially ’80s production and Chaka Khan’s powerful backing vocals shining through, it has a soulful atmosphere.
It’s a great pick-me-up—perfect for mornings when you want a boost to tackle the day.
I’ve Got You On My MindWhite Plains
This is a pop number that straightforwardly captures the heart-fluttering excitement of falling in love.
It was crafted by White Plains, the British group that brightened the early ’70s music scene with the breezy charm of bubblegum pop.
Those pure feelings of having that special someone constantly on your mind come through beautifully in Pete Nelson’s sweet vocals and the shimmering choral arrangements.
Released as a single in April 1970, the song reached No.
17 on the UK charts and was also included on that year’s album White Plains.
Put it on when you want to feel buoyant—your mood is sure to soar.
It’s a wonderful soft rock number that makes you happy just by listening.
Open ArmsJourney
A power ballad about a couple who realize they truly love each other.
It was released as a single in 1982 by the American rock band Journey and reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
It was covered by Mariah Carey in 1995.
What Is Soft Rock? Masterpieces with Comforting Melodies (11–20)
I Just Wanna StopGino Vannelli
Gino Vannelli is one of the singers who best represents the soft rock and AOR scene.
With a musical style that incorporates elements of jazz and classical, he continues to be loved by many fans today.
Among his works, this poignant ballad is especially recommended.
Its sweet yet powerful vocals convey the heartbreaking desire to put an end to a relationship with a loved one.
Released as a single in August 1978 and included on the classic album Brother to Brother, it reached No.
4 on the U.S.
charts and became a global hit, also featuring in the Brazilian TV drama Pai Herói.
The sound is marked by a memorable, mellow saxophone.
If you want to sink into a sentimental melody, be sure to give it a listen.
I Go CrazyPaul Davis
Paul Davis, who demonstrated his talent across a wide range of genres from blue-eyed soul to country.
This piece is known as a quintessential soft-rock ballad that represents his career.
Unable to sever his lingering attachment to a former lover, his yearning swells to a maddening intensity in unguarded moments—those bittersweet emotions are woven through his gentle vocals and mellow melodies.
Released in June 1977 as a single from the acclaimed album “Singer of Songs: Teller of Tales,” the track set a then-record by remaining on the U.S.
charts for 40 consecutive weeks.
On nights when you want to sit quietly and drift into contemplation, why not surrender yourself to its sentimental tune?
Walking In MemphisMarc Cohn
A song released as a single in 1991 by American singer-songwriter Marc Cohn.
It was written after his trip to Memphis, where he visited Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland.
The song was covered by Cher in 1995.
Just the Way You AreBilly Joel
Singer-songwriter Billy Joel from New York.
Isn’t it the ultimate love song that tells you, “You don’t have to make witty conversation, and you don’t need to wear trendy clothes.
You’re most wonderful just the way you are”? The anecdote that the melody came to him in a dream is romantic, too.
This track is a single from the classic 1977 album The Stranger, and at first it was nearly left off because it didn’t seem to fit the album.
However, it went on to earn two Grammys in 1979.
The sound of the warm Fender Rhodes blending with the sweet saxophone gently colors the time you spend with someone special.