[2025] A roundup of recommended Western songs to listen to at a café

TelephoneAndy Shauf

Andy Shauf – “Telephone”

Andy Shauf’s “Telephone,” released in 2023, is a soothing track that blends wistfulness with warmth.

Its gentle melody is perfect for taking it slow with the aroma of coffee.

Mixed by Neal Pogue, the clear sound seems to melt into a café’s ambiance.

This song from the album “Norm” is sure to elevate your café time.

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.

New LightJohn Mayer

John Mayer – New Light (Premium Content!)

An upbeat track with a breezy groove that pays homage to the music styles of the 1980s.

It expresses the wish to be seen in a new light by an unrequited love, carried by a catchy melody.

Released as a single in May 2018 and included on the July 2021 album “Sob Rock.” Its humor-filled music video also drew attention.

Showcasing John Mayer’s versatility and playful spirit, this song is perfect for a relaxing time at a café, and recommended for anyone who relates to the complexities of love.

Loving is Easy (feat. Benny Sings)REX ORANGE COUNTY

Rex Orange County – Loving is Easy (feat. Benny Sings) [Official Video]

A gem of a pop song that captures the joy of love with a simple, comforting melody.

Rex Orange County’s sprightly piano and gentle vocals beautifully evoke the happiness of being in love.

Released in October 2017, the track was created in collaboration with Dutch musician Benny Sings, and its stop-motion animated music video also drew attention.

It’s a warm tune perfect for relaxing in a café or for tranquil moments spent with someone special.

Open UpPREP

PREP – “Open Up” (Official Video)

A poppy, cute melody seems to melt into the café’s soft sunlight.

The London-based band PREP’s track “Open Up” offers a sound defined by a gentle groove that frees the heart.

As the café’s comfort blends with the song’s relaxed mood, it refreshes you seamlessly within the flow of everyday life.

Lyrics that honor emotion, blended with sounds from the ’70s and ’80s, evoke a modern yet somehow nostalgic atmosphere.

In a café where this song is playing, you’ll surely find yourself wanting to enjoy cup after cup of coffee.

Little ThingsJorja Smith

Jorja Smith – Little Things

This track stands out with its lively rhythm and soulful vocals.

Showcasing Jorja Smith’s full appeal, it portrays encounters at clubs and the push and pull of romance.

Carried by an energetic beat, it captures the weekend nightlife and fleeting rushes of excitement, naturally getting listeners to move with the rhythm.

Released in May 2023, the song is also included on the album “falling or flying.” It’s perfect for relaxing in a café and recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy a comfortable groove.

Enjoy this song that lets you feel Jorja Smith’s artistic growth.

From The StartLaufey

Laufey – From The Start (Official Music Video)

Laufey, a talented singer-songwriter from Iceland, released her song “From The Start” in May 2023—an exquisite piece of jazz-pop that gently seeps into the heart.

It portrays the bittersweet feelings of wavering between friendship and love, and the way that inner conflict is conveyed subtly in a calm tone is especially striking.

With a melody that sinks into your chest, it’s perfect as background music in a café.

It’s wonderful—a rare charm that creates a soothing atmosphere while still carrying a touch of sentimentality.