Foreign music BGM to listen to at night: recommended classics and popular songs

SmileJosh Groban

Josh Groban – Smile

Originally used in Charlie Chaplin’s 1936 film “Modern Times.” It has been recorded by many artists, including Nat King Cole and Michael Jackson.

The version by American singer-songwriter Josh Groban is included on his 2006 album “Awake.”

Anything’s PossibleLea Michele

Lea Michele – Anything’s Possible (Audio)

A power ballad that sings about moving forward with confidence.

It was released by Lea Michele, an American singer and actress also known for her appearance on the TV show Glee.

The song is included on her 2017 album Places, which reached No.

2 on the New Zealand charts.

DownMat Kearney

Mat Kearney – Down

A track by Nashville singer-songwriter Mat Kearney.

Released in 2011, it was issued as a single from the album “Young Love” and reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

The track also peaked at No.

21 on the U.S.

Christian chart.

Blue MoonMel Tormé

Mel Tormé-Blue Moon

A serene and graceful melody, shining like the moon in a deep night sky, seeps into the heart.

Mel Tormé, the American master affectionately known as “The Velvet Fog” for his luscious baritone voice, delivers it superbly.

Released by Capitol Records in April 1949, this work became a major hit, reaching No.

20 on the U.S.

charts.

Tormé brings warmth and emotional depth to a romantic story of a lonely protagonist who finds love through a miraculous encounter.

The arrangement deftly weaves in jazz elements, and his storytelling-like expressiveness is breathtaking.

Featured as well in MGM’s 1948 film Words and Music, it’s a gem of a ballad for adults—perfect for a quiet night with a glass in hand.

Baby I’m A FoolMelody Gardot

Melody Gardot – Baby I’m A Fool (Official Music Video)

A captivating track featuring gentle vocals and a sophisticated jazz sound.

Its lyrics delicately portray the fear and inner conflict of falling in love, resonating deeply with listeners.

Included on Melody Gardot’s second album, “My One and Only Thrill,” it was released as a single in April 2009.

It peaked at No.

8 on Japan’s Japan Hot 100 chart, proving its international appeal.

The song has also been featured in film and television soundtracks and is loved by a wide audience.

It’s the perfect companion for a relaxing time at a café or a quiet conversation with someone special.

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.

WeightlessNatasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield – Weightless (Official Less Is More Version)

A track that sings about finding freedom and peace.

It is included on the album “Strip Me,” released in 2010 by British singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield.

A radio edit version featuring vocals by Jamie Foxx was released in the United States.