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)
For All We KnowDonny Hathaway
Alongside singers like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Curtis Mayfield, Donny Hathaway helped galvanize the New Soul boom of the 1970s.
Trained in classical music, he was a soul singer whose distinctive style incorporated elements of Western classical traditions.
One of his underrated gems is For All We Know.
With his rich, resonant low voice and a piano-centered arrangement, it’s a track that’s sure to lull you into drowsiness.
Shape of My HeartSting
Sting, a great singer-songwriter representing the United Kingdom, is an artist with many fans in Japan as well.
One of his underrated gems is Shape of My Heart, which is famous as the theme song for the film Léon.
I think many people in Japan know it.
While the song gives off a stylish and sophisticated impression, if you listen closely, you’ll find it’s composed with a calm, beautiful melody that could lull you to sleep.
Don’t Know WhyNorah Jones
Norah Jones is a jazz singer who’s hugely popular in Japan as well.
If you listen to jazz even a little, you probably know her.
One of her underrated gems is Don’t Know Why.
It’s one of her signature works, featuring a catchy melody that blends laid-back jazz with pop.
Its calm vibe makes it great for falling asleep, yet it also carries a subtly cheerful feel, so it’s recommended for waking up in the morning too.
Happier Than EverBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish, an American singer-songwriter who gained worldwide fame with her 2019 release “bad guy.” In Japan, I think anyone young probably knows her.
One of her underrated gems is “Happier Than Ever.” Her music is known for its dark, melancholic vibe, and this song delivers exactly that quiet heartache.
The intensity ramps up in the second half, so if that might wake you, you could try checking out acoustic covers by other artists instead.
One Last CryBrian McKnight
Brian McKnight, a standout R&B singer who made his mark on the American R&B scene and became one of the defining artists of the 1990s.
Known as a powerhouse vocalist alongside acts like Boyz II Men and Eric Clapton, he continues to be highly regarded by many aficionados today.
One of his underrated gems is “One Last Cry.” Its simple, piano-driven track pairs beautifully with his whispery vocals.
Give it a listen.
Stay GoldStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, the soul singer who helped fuel the New Soul boom of the 1970s, is well known to many people in Japan.
One of his underrated gems is “Stay Gold.” Released in 1983 as the theme song for the film The Outsiders, it’s crafted as a gently soothing pop tune.
The harmonica that follows the chorus also lulls you into drowsiness, so be sure to pay attention to that as well.
I Believe In YouJoe
Singer-songwriter Joe, who was hugely active in the R&B scene of the 2000s.
If you listened to Western music in Japan during that decade, you’ve probably heard his songs at least once.
One of his hidden gems is I Believe In You.
While much of his work leans into sensual R&B, this track is a romantic R&B number with strong pop sensibilities.
Wrapped in a warm atmosphere, it might be perfect for an afternoon nap.