Recommended Western songs to listen to at a café [2026]

TelephoneAndy Shauf

Andy Shauf – “Telephone”

Andy Shauf’s “Telephone,” released in 2023, is a soothing track that blends wistfulness with warmth.

Its gentle melody is perfect for taking it slow with the aroma of coffee.

Mixed by Neal Pogue, the clear sound seems to melt into a café’s ambiance.

This song from the album “Norm” is sure to elevate your café time.

TightSamara Joy

Samara Joy – Tight

“Tight” is a perfect gem for 2023 café BGM.

Recorded at New York’s Electric Lady Studios, this track is a vibrant work in which Samara Joy revives a song by jazz legend Betty Carter through her own unique lens.

Samara’s vocals captivate with dynamic range from low to high, making it recommended not only for jazz fans but also for anyone who wants to relax during café time.

You’re sure to discover something new that brightens your everyday life!

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.

Open UpPREP

PREP – “Open Up” (Official Video)

A poppy, cute melody seems to melt into the café’s soft sunlight.

The London-based band PREP’s track “Open Up” offers a sound defined by a gentle groove that frees the heart.

As the café’s comfort blends with the song’s relaxed mood, it refreshes you seamlessly within the flow of everyday life.

Lyrics that honor emotion, blended with sounds from the ’70s and ’80s, evoke a modern yet somehow nostalgic atmosphere.

In a café where this song is playing, you’ll surely find yourself wanting to enjoy cup after cup of coffee.

From The StartLaufey

Laufey – From The Start (Official Music Video)

Laufey, a talented singer-songwriter from Iceland, released her song “From The Start” in May 2023—an exquisite piece of jazz-pop that gently seeps into the heart.

It portrays the bittersweet feelings of wavering between friendship and love, and the way that inner conflict is conveyed subtly in a calm tone is especially striking.

With a melody that sinks into your chest, it’s perfect as background music in a café.

It’s wonderful—a rare charm that creates a soothing atmosphere while still carrying a touch of sentimentality.

New LightJohn Mayer

John Mayer – New Light (Premium Content!)

An upbeat track with a breezy groove that pays homage to the music styles of the 1980s.

It expresses the wish to be seen in a new light by an unrequited love, carried by a catchy melody.

Released as a single in May 2018 and included on the July 2021 album “Sob Rock.” Its humor-filled music video also drew attention.

Showcasing John Mayer’s versatility and playful spirit, this song is perfect for a relaxing time at a café, and recommended for anyone who relates to the complexities of love.

THREE STRIKES (Feat. Khalid)HONNE

HONNE – THREE STRIKES (Feat. Khalid) (Official Video)

Hugely popular duo HONNE’s “THREE STRIKES” stands out as a gem among the albums released in November 2021.

Featuring Khalid, its blend of urban city pop and electronic vibes adds a touch of richness to relaxing moments in a café.

The song’s laid-back tempo is soothing, like the gentle waft of a calm coffee aroma.

And in high-resolution audio, the clearer sound will make your ears even happier.

It’s stylish, comfortable background music that naturally fits lunchtime or tea time.