What is soft rock? Masterpieces with captivating, soothing melodies
Soft rock soothes the soul with gentle melodies and a pop-infused sound.
Since the 1970s, this genre has softly colored the music scene, retaining rock’s power while offering mellow, approachable melodic lines.
Many listeners are surely captivated by its lyrics that, though easy on the ears, resonate deeply in the heart.
Here, we introduce a selection of gems that let you fully savor the charm of soft rock.
Enjoy discovering a wonderful new track.
What Is Soft Rock? Masterpieces with Irresistibly Smooth Melodies (1–10)
I Want to Know What Love IsForeigner
It’s a dramatic power ballad that rises from a quiet, prayer-like beginning into a majestic gospel climax.
One of the signature works by the British-American rock band Foreigner, it was released as a single in November 1984 and was also included on the classic album Agent Provocateur.
Lou Gramm’s soulful vocals and the rich harmonies of the choir shake the listener to the core.
The song is infused with a piercing cry to know what love is, vividly portraying a protagonist who seeks true warmth after overcoming past pain.
Topping both the U.
S.
and U.
K.
charts, this piece seeps deeply into the heart when listened to on a night you want to quietly face yourself.
I’ve Got You On My MindWhite Plains
This is a pop number that straightforwardly captures the heart-fluttering excitement of falling in love.
It was crafted by White Plains, the British group that brightened the early ’70s music scene with the breezy charm of bubblegum pop.
Those pure feelings of having that special someone constantly on your mind come through beautifully in Pete Nelson’s sweet vocals and the shimmering choral arrangements.
Released as a single in April 1970, the song reached No.
17 on the UK charts and was also included on that year’s album White Plains.
Put it on when you want to feel buoyant—your mood is sure to soar.
It’s a wonderful soft rock number that makes you happy just by listening.
Higher LoveSteve Winwood
Steve Winwood, the British musician known as a leading figure of blue-eyed soul.
Though he found success in various bands, this solo-era track is one I’d recommend as a soft rock classic.
It’s included on the album “Back in the High Life,” and it reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts in August 1986.
Riding an exhilarating sound, the song delivers a powerful message about overcoming the emptiness of everyday life and seeking a higher, more spiritual form of love.
With sleek, quintessentially ’80s production and Chaka Khan’s powerful backing vocals shining through, it has a soulful atmosphere.
It’s a great pick-me-up—perfect for mornings when you want a boost to tackle the day.
I Just Wanna StopGino Vannelli
Gino Vannelli is one of the singers who best represents the soft rock and AOR scene.
With a musical style that incorporates elements of jazz and classical, he continues to be loved by many fans today.
Among his works, this poignant ballad is especially recommended.
Its sweet yet powerful vocals convey the heartbreaking desire to put an end to a relationship with a loved one.
Released as a single in August 1978 and included on the classic album Brother to Brother, it reached No.
4 on the U.
S.
charts and became a global hit, also featuring in the Brazilian TV drama Pai Herói.
The sound is marked by a memorable, mellow saxophone.
If you want to sink into a sentimental melody, be sure to give it a listen.
Careless WhisperGeorge Michael
George Michael, who produced numerous hit songs as a member of the pop duo Wham!, also enjoyed a brilliant solo career.
This signature work of his, released in July 1984, topped the charts in 25 countries worldwide.
Blending soul and R&B into pop, it exudes a mature atmosphere, with a wistful, beautiful saxophone melody coloring the entire piece.
You can keenly feel the protagonist’s helpless remorse and guilt after betraying a loved one in a moment of recklessness.
It’s also known for memorably closing the film Deadpool.
A perfect piece to savor alone on a night when you want to indulge in a touch of sentimentality.
Your SongElton John
The moment the delicate piano intro begins, it feels as if the world is wrapped in kindness—this is a true classic.
It’s the work that opened the career of the singer-songwriter who left his mark on music history, Elton John.
The earnest desire to convey love, clumsy yet wholehearted, is deeply moving.
Released as a single in October 1970, the song is included on the acclaimed album “Elton John.” Although it was initially a B-side, its universal appeal spread by word of mouth, becoming Elton John’s first international smash hit.
When you want to immerse yourself in pure feelings for someone dear, why not surrender to this sweet and gentle world?
What You Won’t Do for LoveBobby Caldwell
Bobby Caldwell is one of the singers who represents AOR and blue-eyed soul.
Although he was white, he gained popularity with an authentic R&B sound.
Among his works, this song is surely the timeless classic that continues to shine.
Its straightforward and passionate message—doing anything for the one you love—really strikes a chord.
The smooth melody and distinctive horn section create a sophisticated, romantic mood.
Released as a single from his debut album “Bobby Caldwell” in September 1978, it’s also famous for the anecdote that it was written in just two days.
I think it’s a perfect song for a leisurely holiday atmosphere.