Classic Western songs that soothe the soul
Why not, for once, stop thinking and just let yourself sink into some good music?
In our daily lives, stress tends to build up in ways we don’t even notice.
When that happens, relax your mind by listening to music that’s a little different from your usual.
It’s great in the bath, or before bed in your bedroom—but the top recommendation is to play it while you’re lazily spending a day off.
That’s the best.
When you find a song you like, try it out in all sorts of moments.
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Timeless Western songs that soothe the soul (1–10)
Lovin’ Cup94 East
94 East is a funk band from Minnesota, USA.
Formed in 1975, the group is famous for once having Prince as a member.
The band’s leader is Pepe Willie, Prince’s cousin.
Their track “Lovin’ Cup” is a moody number featuring a laid-back beat, high-pitched backing vocals, and layers of saxophone.
If you want to sink into a relaxed mood and just listen to the music, you can’t go wrong with this song.
Yearning For Your LoveThe Gap Band
Here’s a track from The Gap Band, who were active in the U.
S.
during the 1970s and ’80s.
It’s a love song sung with a refreshing touch over a funky beat.
While it feels like the same guitar cutting phrase runs throughout, a cleverly crafted combination with the other sounds keeps it from getting repetitive.
There’s also a guitar solo toward the end, letting you enjoy the wide-ranging appeal of the electric guitar all within this one song.
The very calm, low-toned male vocals are perfect for when you want to relax.
WinelightGrover Washington Jr.
Smooth jazz, a music genre derived from fusion.
It’s a style rooted in jazz, characterized by sweet melodies and arrangements that are relatively easy for anyone to listen to.
And the artist known as the “father of smooth jazz” is Grover Washington Jr.
He was a saxophone player who debuted in 1981 and remained at the forefront until his passing in 1999.
The track Winelight could be described as a smooth jazz number that retains a strong fusion flavor.
The saxophone is outstanding, of course, but the wah and slap bass and the funky guitar also make this song especially appealing.
Classic Western songs that calm the heart (11–20)
A Shade of BlueIncognito
Incognito is a band that represents “acid jazz,” a jazz genre that began in the UK club scene in the 1980s.
Although they formed in 1979, their major breakthrough came with the 1991 single “Always There.” As one of the flagship bands of acid jazz, their track “A Shade of Blue” was released in 1995, four years after their big hit.
Its laid-back beat, striking percussion, and calmly smooth vocal delivery create a gently swaying, blissful feel.
Even within acid jazz, it’s a particularly moody work.
SnoozeSZA
This song is by the American artist SZA, who captivates the world with a wide range of expressions grounded in R&B.
Its laid-back groove and dreamy sound are soothing—perfect for a slightly languid summer afternoon.
The song celebrates how irreplaceable time with a loved one is, and expresses a deep affection that doesn’t want to miss a single moment.
You’ll find yourself enchanted by its sweet, immersive atmosphere.
Featured on the acclaimed 2022 album “SOS,” it won Best R&B Song at the 2024 Grammy Awards.
Let this melody carry you during a twilight with someone special, or as you unwind at the end of the day.
We’re In This Love TogetherAl Jarreau
Of course the song itself matters, but the vocalist’s tone is also a key element of a “soothing song.” For a male vocalist with a soft voice, I recommend the American singer Al Jarreau.
He also has a jazz vocalist side; he might be a bit less known in Japan, but he was one of the singers who took part in “We Are the World.” This song, released in 1981, was also popular in Japan under the title “Kanaderu Ai.”
LisaChris Botti
Within jazz, there’s a style known as smooth jazz.
It features a soft, pleasant sound and grew popular through radio.
Among its artists, one who is especially popular in Japan—even more than in his home country, the United States—is the trumpet player Chris Botti.
His gentle, soothing tone and melodies that seem to speak to you are perfect for moments when you want to calm your mind.
This track, included as the first song on his 2001 album Night Sessions, is packed with the charm of his performance.