A good night’s sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. However, many of us struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Whether it’s due to stress, anxiety, or simply having an active mind, a lack of quality sleep can impact our productivity, mood, and physical health.
One way to improve the quality of our sleep is by incorporating calming music into our nighttime routine. Music has been shown to have a soothing effect on our bodies and minds, helping us to relax and unwind before bedtime. Additionally, listening to music can help to drown out background noise and create a more peaceful sleeping environment.
With so many songs and genres to choose from, finding the right music to fall asleep to can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 31 songs to fall asleep to. From classical to ambient, these songs have been selected for their calming melodies, gentle rhythms, and overall peacefulness.
Whether you’re looking to improve your sleep quality or simply want to relax before bedtime, these songs are sure to help you unwind and drift off into a restful night’s sleep. So, grab your headphones, press play, and prepare to have sweet dreams.
1. Teardrop – Massive Attack
“Teardrop” by Massive Attack is a haunting and mesmerizing trip-hop classic that features Elizabeth Fraser’s ethereal vocals, dreamy synths, and a distinctive drum beat. The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, creating a sense of mystery and introspection. “Teardrop” has been used in various films, TV shows, and commercials, and its unique sound and emotional power continue to captivate listeners around the world.
2. Weightless – Marconi Union
“Weightless” by Marconi Union is an ambient masterpiece that has been scientifically proven to be the most relaxing song ever recorded. The track features a soothing combination of ethereal textures, gentle melodies, and soft rhythms that create a sense of calm and tranquility. “Weightless” is the perfect background music for meditation, yoga, or sleep, and its therapeutic effects have made it a popular choice for therapists and wellness practitioners.
3. I’m So Tired – The Beatles
“I’m So Tired” by The Beatles is a bluesy, melancholic track that showcases John Lennon’s raw vocal performance and the band’s tight musicianship. The song’s lyrics express feelings of exhaustion and frustration, reflecting Lennon’s struggles with insomnia and anxiety during the recording of the White Album. “I’m So Tired” is a deeply personal and introspective song that captures the mood of the late ’60s and the band’s creative evolution.
4. Only Time – Enya
“Only Time” by Enya is a hauntingly beautiful song with ethereal vocals and a dreamlike quality. The track features Enya’s signature new age sound, complete with atmospheric synthesizers and soft percussion. Its reflective and calming melody is perfect for winding down before bed.
5. I Need Some Sleep – Eels
“I Need Some Sleep” by Eels is a catchy and quirky indie-pop song that captures the feeling of insomnia and sleep deprivation. Its upbeat rhythm and bittersweet lyrics offer a relatable take on the frustration that comes with being unable to fall asleep. The song features a mix of guitar and piano, as well as a simple but effective drum beat.
6. Don’t Know Why – Norah Jones
“Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones is a soulful and introspective jazz ballad that showcases Jones’s unique voice and musicality. The song’s mellow tempo and gentle piano melody make it a perfect choice for a relaxing evening or a peaceful night’s sleep. Its poignant lyrics express a sense of uncertainty and introspection, making it a great choice for self-reflection or unwinding after a long day.
7. Pure Shores – All Saints
“Pure Shores” by All Saints is a relaxing and atmospheric pop song that has become a classic in the genre of chillout music. Its smooth electronic beat and ambient production create a peaceful and calming atmosphere, while the soaring vocals add a sense of uplifting optimism.
8. Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is a powerful and emotive cover of Leonard Cohen’s iconic song. Buckley’s haunting voice and raw, stripped-back guitar make for a deeply moving performance. The song’s poignant lyrics and powerful delivery make it a perfect choice for introspection and reflection, as well as an emotionally resonant piece of music.
9. Sun’s Coming Up – Tame Impala
“Sun’s Coming Up” by Tame Impala is a dreamy and introspective track that combines psychedelic and indie elements. The song features lush synth textures, dynamic drum patterns, and Kevin Parker’s introspective lyrics, which create a serene and contemplative mood. The song’s floating rhythm and ethereal production make it a great choice for unwinding after a long day, meditating or simply zoning out.
10. The Scientist – Coldplay
“The Scientist” by Coldplay is a poignant song about a man reflecting on a past relationship and trying to make sense of its demise. The haunting melody, coupled with Chris Martin’s emotional vocals, creates a deeply moving atmosphere. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man desperately trying to repair what’s broken, but ultimately accepting that it’s too late. The song’s climax, where Martin pleads “Nobody said it was easy, no one ever said it would be this hard,” is a raw and honest portrayal of heartbreak and the human condition.
11. Asleep – The Smiths
“Asleep” by The Smiths is a haunting ballad that explores the theme of death and the desire for escape from life’s struggles. Morrissey’s deep, introspective lyrics are set to a minimalist melody, with the ethereal harmonies of the backing vocals adding to the song’s melancholic beauty. The song’s chorus, “Don’t try to wake me in the morning, ’cause I will be gone,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s desire to end their suffering through death. “Asleep” is a deeply emotive and poetic track, capturing the essence of The Smiths’ signature melancholy.
12. Moon – Foals
“Moon” by Foals is a dreamy, atmospheric track that explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and self-discovery. The song’s shimmering guitars and hypnotic rhythm create an otherworldly soundscape, perfectly suited to the introspective lyrics. The narrator is a solitary figure, lost in his own thoughts and searching for meaning in the darkness. The chorus, “I see the moon, I see it too,” is a poignant expression of human connection and the universal experience of looking up at the night sky. “Moon” is a deeply introspective and contemplative track, capturing the essence of Foals’ unique blend of indie and experimental rock.
13. Angels – The xx
“Angels” by The xx is a melancholic yet beautiful love song that explores the fragile nature of relationships. The band’s signature minimalistic sound, with a simple guitar riff and delicate beats, creates an intimate atmosphere, perfectly suited to the vulnerable lyrics. The song’s chorus, “And angels deserve to die, my love,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s fear of losing their lover. “Angels” is a deeply emotive track, capturing the essence of The xx’s unique blend of indie and electronic music.
14. All Alright – Sigur Rós
“All Alright” by Sigur Rós is a hopeful and uplifting track that explores the theme of overcoming adversity. The song’s soaring melodies, ethereal vocals, and layers of instrumentation create a sense of triumph and joy, perfectly suited to the song’s positive message. The chorus, “Everything’s gonna be all right,” is a powerful affirmation of resilience and perseverance. “All Alright” is a deeply emotive and inspiring track, capturing the essence of Sigur Rós’ unique blend of ambient and post-rock music.
15. Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi
“Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi is a heart-wrenching ballad about loss and the pain of a broken heart. The song’s simple piano melody and Capaldi’s soulful vocals create an intimate and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “Now the day bleeds into nightfall, and you’re not here to get me through it all,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s yearning for the one who has left them. “Someone You Loved” is a deeply emotive and relatable track, capturing the essence of Capaldi’s unique blend of pop and soul music.
16. Falling – Harry Styles
“Falling” by Harry Styles is a soulful ballad that explores the theme of heartbreak and the struggle to move on from a failed relationship. The song’s haunting melody, with a simple piano and guitar accompaniment, creates an intimate and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around?” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s self-doubt and fear of being alone. “Falling” is a deeply emotive and relatable track, capturing the essence of Styles’ unique blend of pop and rock music.
17. No Distance Left to Run – Blur
“No Distance Left to Run” by Blur is a nostalgic and bittersweet track that explores the theme of a failed relationship and the pain of letting go. The song’s melancholic melody, with a simple acoustic guitar and strings accompaniment, creates an intimate and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “It’s over, you don’t need to tell me, I hope you’re with someone who makes you feel safe in your sleeping tonight,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s acceptance and resignation. “No Distance Left to Run” is a deeply emotive and evocative track, capturing the essence of Blur’s unique blend of Britpop and indie rock.
18. How to Disappear Completely – Radiohead
“How to Disappear Completely” by Radiohead is a haunting and experimental track that explores the theme of depression and the desire to escape from reality. The song’s ethereal melody, with layers of instrumentation and electronic effects, creates an otherworldly soundscape, perfectly suited to the introspective and unsettling lyrics. The chorus, “I’m not here, this isn’t happening,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s disassociation and detachment from the world. “How to Disappear Completely” is a deeply introspective and experimental track, capturing the essence of Radiohead’s unique blend of alternative and art rock music.
19. Wedding Song – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
“Wedding Song” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs is a sweet and romantic track that celebrates the joy and beauty of love. The song’s simple yet catchy melody, with a guitar riff and Karen O’s distinctive vocals, creates an upbeat and celebratory atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s happy lyrics. The chorus, “Forever may be all we need, please stay forever with me,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s commitment and devotion to their partner. “Wedding Song” is a deeply emotive and charming track, capturing the essence of Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ unique blend of garage and indie rock music.
20. Pale Blue Eyes – The Velvet Underground
“Pale Blue Eyes” by The Velvet Underground is a timeless and poetic track that explores the theme of love and regret. The song’s slow and melancholic melody, with a simple acoustic guitar and soft vocals, creates an intimate and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the introspective and contemplative lyrics. The chorus, “It was good what we did yesterday, and I’d do it once again,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s nostalgia and longing for a lost love. “Pale Blue Eyes” is a deeply emotive and poetic track, capturing the essence of The Velvet Underground’s unique blend of art rock and folk music.
21. Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur
“Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur is a heartfelt and romantic ballad that celebrates the beauty and endurance of love. The song’s simple piano melody, with Arthur’s soulful vocals, creates an intimate and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “I’m so in love with you, and I hope you know, darling your love is more than worth its weight in gold,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s love and devotion to their partner. “Say You Won’t Let Go” is a deeply emotive and relatable track, capturing the essence of Arthur’s unique blend of pop and soul music.
22. Delicate – Damien Rice
“Delicate” by Damien Rice is a hauntingly beautiful track that explores the complexities of relationships. The song’s delicate and intricate guitar melody, with Rice’s soulful vocals, creates a melancholic and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the introspective and contemplative lyrics. The chorus, “If you loved me, why’d you leave me?” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s pain and confusion in the aftermath of a failed relationship. “Delicate” is a deeply emotive and introspective track, capturing the essence of Rice’s unique blend of folk and indie rock music.
23. All I Want – Kodaline
“All I Want” by Kodaline is a powerful and emotional ballad that expresses the yearning and desire for love and connection. The song’s soaring and anthemic melody, with Steve Garrigan’s heartfelt vocals, creates a deeply emotive and uplifting atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “All I want is nothing more, to hear you knocking at my door,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s longing and hope for a meaningful and lasting relationship. “All I Want” is a deeply relatable and stirring track, capturing the essence of Kodaline’s unique blend of indie and alternative rock music.
24. Breathe – Taylor Swift
“Breathe” by Taylor Swift is a hauntingly beautiful and introspective track that explores the theme of regret and self-forgiveness. The song’s simple and ethereal melody, with Swift’s delicate vocals, creates a reflective and contemplative atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s regret and remorse for past mistakes. “Breathe” is a deeply emotive and intimate track, capturing the essence of Swift’s unique blend of pop and folk music.
25. Cool Waves – Spiritualized
“Cool Waves” by Spiritualized is a dreamy and ethereal track that explores the theme of inner peace and spiritual awakening. The song’s slow and hypnotic melody, with Jason Pierce’s soulful vocals, creates a meditative and otherworldly atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s introspective and contemplative lyrics. The chorus, “And the cool waves wash over me, and the sea calls out for nothing,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s desire to surrender to the universe and find serenity. “Cool Waves” is a deeply meditative and spiritual track, capturing the essence of Spiritualized’s unique blend of space rock and shoegaze music.
26. The Asphalt World – Suede
“The Asphalt World” by Suede is a dark and brooding track that explores the theme of obsession and forbidden desire. The song’s epic and cinematic melody, with Brett Anderson’s emotive vocals, creates a dramatic and intense atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s raw and visceral lyrics. The chorus, “I want you, I need you, but there ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you, now don’t be sad, ’cause two out of three ain’t bad,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s struggle to come to terms with his unrequited love. “The Asphalt World” is a deeply emotive and dramatic track, capturing the essence of Suede’s unique blend of glam and alternative rock music.
27. Sleeping with Ghosts – Placebo
“Sleeping with Ghosts” by Placebo is a haunting and introspective track that explores the theme of loss and grief. The song’s somber and atmospheric melody, with Brian Molko’s plaintive vocals, creates a melancholic and reflective atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s raw and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “Sleeping with ghosts, it’s the only way to get close to you,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s longing and desire to reconnect with a lost love. “Sleeping with Ghosts” is a deeply emotive and intimate track, capturing the essence of Placebo’s unique blend of alternative and post-punk music.
28. 8 – Billie Eilish
“8” by Billie Eilish is a tender and introspective track that explores the theme of loss and growing up. The song’s gentle and melancholic melody, with Billie’s soft vocals, creates a nostalgic and emotional atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s intimate and vulnerable lyrics. The chorus, “I love you, isn’t that the way we’re supposed to say it?” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s struggle to come to terms with the complexity of human emotions. “8” is a deeply emotive and introspective track, capturing the essence of Billie’s unique blend of pop and alternative music.
29. Here – Pavement
“Here” by Pavement is a lo-fi and off-kilter track that explores the theme of disillusionment and alienation. The song’s jangly and dissonant melody, with Stephen Malkmus’ deadpan vocals, creates an ironic and sardonic atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s cynical and detached lyrics. The chorus, “I was dressed for success, but success it never comes,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s frustration with the futility of modern life. “Here” is a deeply subversive and unconventional track, capturing the essence of Pavement’s unique blend of indie and alternative rock music.
30. Run – Snow Patrol
“Run” by Snow Patrol is an anthemic and uplifting track that explores the theme of perseverance and hope. The song’s soaring and epic melody, with Gary Lightbody’s powerful vocals, creates a rousing and inspirational atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s optimistic and affirming lyrics. The chorus, “Light up, light up, as if you have a choice,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s determination to keep moving forward, despite the obstacles. “Run” is a deeply cathartic and empowering track, capturing the essence of Snow Patrol’s unique blend of alternative and indie rock music.
31. Daysleeper – R.E.M.
“Daysleeper” by R.E.M. is a haunting and melancholic track that explores the theme of disconnection and existential despair in the modern world. The song’s hypnotic and dreamy melody, with Michael Stipe’s ethereal vocals, creates a surreal and introspective atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s contemplative and introspective lyrics. The chorus, “I’m just a dreamer, I dream my life away,” is a poignant expression of the narrator’s yearning for a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life. “Daysleeper” is a deeply introspective and evocative track, capturing the essence of R.E.M.’s unique blend of alternative and indie rock music.
Macey West is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
