Sleep-inducing Western music: the world’s timeless masterpieces and popular songs for falling asleep
When you want to fall asleep to music, the lyrics end up catching your ear and you just can’t drift off…
You’ve had that experience, right? In that sense, for those who don’t speak English, Western songs are easier to relax to because the lyrics don’t register and you can focus on the melody.
This time, we’ve selected some especially sleep-inducing classics from Western music.
We’ve included not only pop, but also R&B and soul, so fans of Black music won’t want to miss this.
Now then, take your time—and good night…
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Sleep-inducing Western music. The world’s most soothing masterpieces and popular songs (1–10)
I Love You For Sentimental ReasonsNat King Cole
Nat King Cole, the great jazz singer with a warmly enveloping voice, is as famous as Frank Sinatra and a bona fide, powerhouse jazz vocalist.
One of his underappreciated gems is “I Love You (For Sentimental Reasons).” It’s a laid-back jazz standard that’s perfect for falling asleep.
While the melody is relaxed, the lyrics surprisingly portray a steadfast, no-nonsense man—so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.
CompanyRickie Lee Jones
Ricki Lee Jones is a female singer-songwriter who was active in the 1980s.
Known for her emotional lyrics, she gained popularity with a musical style that spans R&B, rock, and pop.
One of her classic songs is “Company.” Growing up in a troubled home, she often ran away as a child, and this song reflects the feelings she had during that time.
Its wistful melody makes it a great recommendation for drifting off to sleep.
Narrow DaylightDiana Krall
Diana Krall is one of Canada’s leading jazz singers.
She has a highly distinctive voice—her low register is incredibly cool and exudes sensuality.
One of her underrated gems is ‘Narrow Daylight.’ She often performs it live as a piano-and-vocal piece, and not only is her singing superb, but the piano is of exceptionally high quality as well.
The live version has a different vibe, so be sure to check out both.
Sleep-inducing Western music: World’s slumber-worthy masterpieces and popular songs (11–20)
It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To YesterdayBoyz II Men
Boyz II Men are an American vocal group known for their exceptionally beautiful, soulful harmonies—familiar to anyone in Japan who enjoys R&B.
One of their hidden gems is “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday.” It’s an a cappella track featuring only their chorus, and the four-part harmony is so stunning it may lull you to sleep as you listen.
If you love Black music, be sure to check it out.
I Won’t Give UpJason Mraz
Jason Mraz is an artist who has collaborated with numerous musicians, delivering classics and hit songs time and again.
He excels in a variety of genres—soul, funk, reggae, R&B—and is known for his wide-ranging musicality and originality.
One of his underrated gems is I Won’t Give Up.
It’s arranged with a country-music feel, but the chorus lets you savor his soulful vocals.
Whenever Wherever WhateverMaxwell
Maxwell is an R&B singer who has earned high praise for his wide-ranging musicality.
He’s also often introduced as one of the leading artists of neo-soul.
One of his underrated gems is “Whenever Wherever Whatever.” Released in 1996, this song helped solidify his popularity and maintains a very gentle mood throughout.
He’s an artist with a beautifully clear falsetto, so be sure to pay attention to his high notes.
Calling YouJevetta Steele
Calling You, the theme song from the film Bagdad Cafe, is a beloved classic around the world.
It’s been covered by major artists like Jeff Buckley and Celine Dion, but the original version by Jevetta Steele still feels the most fitting.
Although it’s emotional, it’s not the kind of song that brings you to tears, so it works perfectly as background music for sleep.
Be sure to check out the film as well.