Sleep is one of the most essential aspects of our daily routine. It is the time when our bodies and minds recharge, preparing us for the next day. Many musicians have written songs about sleep and falling asleep, capturing the essence of this important activity. These songs range from lullabies to indie rock and everything in between. They can be soothing and relaxing, helping us to fall asleep more easily. They can also be upbeat and energetic, reflecting the joy of waking up feeling refreshed. In this article, we will explore the top 20 songs about sleep and falling asleep. From classical music to modern pop hits, these songs offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer slow, melodic tunes or upbeat tracks with a strong beat, you’re sure to find something on this list that speaks to you. Whether you’re listening to these songs before bed or while you’re drifting off, they are sure to help you get a good night’s rest. So put on your headphones and get ready to drift off into a peaceful slumber with some of the best sleep-inspired songs out there.
1. “Talking in Your Sleep” by The Romantics
“Talking in Your Sleep” is a hit song by American rock band The Romantics, released in 1983. The song features catchy guitar riffs and upbeat drums, combined with romantic and wistful lyrics about a relationship that is on the brink of ending. The chorus, in particular, showcases the lead singer’s longing for the person he loves to open up to him and reveal their true feelings. The upbeat melody contrasts with the melancholic lyrics, creating a catchy and memorable tune. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top five on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a staple of classic rock radio. “Talking in Your Sleep” remains one of The Romantics’ most well-known and beloved songs, and continues to be a fan favorite.
2. “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” by The Tokens
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight” is a classic song that was originally recorded by Solomon Linda and the Mbube group in 1939. The song was later covered by The Tokens in 1961 and became a hit in the United States, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and memorable lyrics, including the famous chorus, “Wimoweh, wimoweh.” The song has become a staple of pop culture and is widely recognized as one of the most popular and enduring African-inspired songs of the 20th century. The unique and infectious sound of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” has made it a popular choice for commercials, movies, and television shows, and it continues to be a beloved classic that is enjoyed by generations of music fans around the world.
3. “All I Have to Do Is Dream” by The Everly Brothers
“All I Have to Do is Dream” is a classic ballad by the Everly Brothers, released in 1958. The song features the duo’s signature close harmonies and a lush, acoustic guitar-driven melody. The lyrics express the protagonist’s longing for love and how their dreams provide comfort and hope. The song became a huge hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying the Everly Brothers’ status as one of the most influential and successful acts of the early rock and roll era. Its timeless appeal and memorable melody continue to make it a popular choice for covers and remakes by artists of all genres, solidifying its status as a true classic of popular music.
4. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is a classic pop song by the British duo Wham!, released in 1984. The song was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the biggest hits of the decade. The song features a cheerful and upbeat melody, accompanied by lively synths and George Michael’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics of the song express a desire to spend more time with a loved one and are characterized by their lighthearted and playful nature. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” has become a defining anthem of the 1980s and remains one of Wham!’s most enduring and beloved tracks. Its upbeat energy and catchy chorus continue to be popular with audiences today, making it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by music fans of all ages.
5. “I’m Only Sleeping” by The Beatles
“I’m Only Sleeping” is a classic song by The Beatles, released on their 1966 album “Revolver.” This trippy and dreamy track was written by George Harrison and showcases the band’s innovative approach to music, with its lush harmonies, backwards guitar solos, and drowsy vocals. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a person who prefers to sleep and dream rather than face the world, reflecting the carefree spirit of the times and the band’s own playful nature. “I’m Only Sleeping” is considered one of The Beatles’ more experimental tracks, and its innovative use of studio techniques inspired many musicians in the years to come. Today, it remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners with its psychedelic sound and imaginative lyrics.
6. “I Guess I Should Go To Sleep” by Jack White
“I Guess I Should Go To Sleep” is a melancholic and introspective song by American musician Jack White. It was released in 2012 as part of his debut solo album “Blunderbuss.” The song is a powerful ballad that showcases White’s distinctive and raw vocal style, as well as his talents as a guitarist and songwriter. The lyrics of the song reflect on a relationship that has ended and the emotions of heartache and regret that come with it. The haunting melody, combined with White’s emotional delivery, creates a powerful and moving experience for listeners. “I Guess I Should Go To Sleep” is a standout track on “Blunderbuss” and demonstrates White’s versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to create heartfelt and introspective songs as well as his more well-known high-energy rock and roll style.
7. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
“Enter Sandman” is a classic heavy metal song by the American band Metallica, released on their 1991 self-titled album, “Metallica (The Black Album)”. The song is well known for its powerful guitar riff and aggressive, driving beat, making it one of Metallica’s most recognizable tracks. The lyrics are about a nightmare monster who comes to take a child to a world of darkness and fear, but also offer a message of comfort to the child that everything will be alright. “Enter Sandman” is considered a staple of the heavy metal genre and has become one of Metallica’s signature songs, cementing their place in rock and metal history. The song continues to be a crowd-pleaser, and remains a staple of the band’s live shows, with fans headbanging and singing along to its catchy chorus.
8. “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” by The Beastie Boys
“No Sleep Till Brooklyn” is a song by the Beastie Boys, released in 1986 as part of their album “Licensed to Ill”. The song features a hard-hitting beat, aggressive rap verses, and a heavy metal-inspired guitar riff, showcasing the Beastie Boys’ innovative fusion of hip-hop and rock music. The lyrics celebrate the excitement of touring and performing, as the Beastie Boys boast about their stamina and determination to keep the party going. The song’s brash, youthful energy and catchy chorus made it a hit, helping to establish the Beastie Boys as one of the most influential and innovative acts of their generation. Its lasting popularity has made it a staple of hip-hop and alternative music, cementing its place as one of the Beastie Boys’ most iconic and memorable tracks.
9. “How Do You Sleep?” by Sam Smith
“How Do You Sleep?” is a soulful pop ballad by English singer and songwriter Sam Smith, released in 2019. The song is a sultry and emotional track that showcases Smith’s rich and powerful voice. The lyrics are a message directed at a former lover, as the singer questions how the other person can sleep at night after causing so much pain and heartache. The song is a powerful expression of anger, frustration, and heartbreak, and features a smooth and atmospheric production that perfectly complements Smith’s soulful vocals. “How Do You Sleep?” is a standout track in Sam Smith’s discography, showcasing their incredible voice and songwriting ability. The song has become a fan favorite and continues to receive widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Whether you’re a fan of soulful ballads or just appreciate great music, “How Do You Sleep?” is a must-listen track.
10. “Asleep” by The Smiths
“Asleep” is a slow, haunting ballad by the English rock band The Smiths. The song was released in 1987 as part of the album “Strangeways, Here We Come.” It is one of the band’s most emotional and introspective songs, showcasing frontman Morrissey’s distinctive vocals and songwriting style. The lyrics of “Asleep” are melancholic and explore themes of heartache, solitude, and a longing for escape. The delicate, fingerpicked guitar and tender piano create a dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly complements the mood of the song. “Asleep” has become a fan favorite among The Smiths’ devoted fanbase and is widely considered to be one of the band’s most beautiful and moving songs. Its timeless quality continues to make it a standout track in the band’s extensive discography.
11. “Insomnia” by Daya
“Insomnia” is a pop song by American singer and songwriter Daya, released in 2021. The song showcases Daya’s smooth and soulful vocals over a bass-driven beat, and deals with the theme of being unable to sleep because of thoughts and worries that keep racing through the mind. The lyrics express the frustration and restlessness that come with insomnia, as the singer laments about how the night feels endless and how she just wants to find peace and quiet. Despite its melancholic theme, “Insomnia” has an infectious beat and a catchy chorus that make it a standout track. The song is a perfect example of Daya’s ability to craft relatable and emotive pop songs that resonate with listeners. “Insomnia” is a standout track in Daya’s discography, showcasing her artistry and versatility as a singer and songwriter.
12. “I Go to Sleep” by The Pretenders
“I Go to Sleep” is a song by the Pretenders, released in 1981 as part of their album “Pretenders II”. The song features a delicate, acoustic guitar-driven melody, and showcases lead singer Chrissie Hynde’s powerful and emotional vocals. The lyrics express feelings of loneliness and heartache, as the protagonist describes how they cope with the pain of losing love. The song’s delicate and introspective mood sets it apart from the band’s other, more energetic tracks, and highlights the range and versatility of the Pretenders’ musical style. Despite its somewhat melancholic tone, “I Go to Sleep” has become one of the band’s most popular and enduring tracks, and is considered a classic of the new wave and alternative rock genres.
13. “You Can Sleep While I Drive” by Melissa Etheridge
“You Can Sleep While I Drive” is a song by Melissa Etheridge, released in 1988 as part of her album “Brave and Crazy”. The song features a smooth, rock-influenced melody, and showcases Etheridge’s distinctive, soulful voice. The lyrics paint a picture of a restless traveler, offering to take the wheel and allow their companion to get some rest. The song’s upbeat and energetic mood, combined with its catchy chorus, makes it an infectious and upbeat anthem of freedom and adventure. Despite its somewhat lighthearted tone, the song also touches on deeper themes of independence and self-reliance, making it a perfect representation of Etheridge’s powerful and meaningful songwriting style. Over the years, “You Can Sleep While I Drive” has become one of Etheridge’s most beloved and iconic tracks, and is considered a classic of the singer-songwriter genre.
14. “Sleeping on the Roof” by The Flaming Lips
“Sleeping on the Roof” is a dreamy, psychedelic rock song by the American band The Flaming Lips. The song was released in 2020 as part of the album “American Head.” It is characterized by its hazy, atmospheric sound, with swirling synths, dreamy vocals, and a steady beat that creates a mesmerizing, trance-like quality. The lyrics of “Sleeping on the Roof” are introspective and reflective, exploring themes of introspection, contemplation, and a sense of escape from the chaos of everyday life. The song’s dreamy, otherworldly soundscape and thought-provoking lyrics make it a standout track on “American Head” and a perfect representation of The Flaming Lips’ unique and innovative musical style. Its mesmerizing quality continues to captivate listeners and showcases the band’s ability to create music that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
15. “Behind the Wall of Sleep” by the Smithereens
“Behind the Wall of Sleep” is a classic rock song by American rock band The Smithereens, released on their 1986 album “Especially for You”. The song is a driving and upbeat rocker, with a catchy guitar riff and powerful vocals that evoke the sound of classic rock and roll. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is trapped in their own thoughts, longing to escape the noise and chaos of the world. The song is a perfect example of The Smithereens’ unique blend of classic rock, punk, and pop influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and fresh. “Behind the Wall of Sleep” has become a fan favorite, and remains a staple of The Smithereens’ live shows, where it always elicits enthusiastic responses from audiences. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or just appreciate great music, “Behind the Wall of Sleep” is a must-listen track.
16. “When You Sleep” by My Bloody Valentine
“When You Sleep” is a shimmering and ethereal song by the Irish-British band My Bloody Valentine. The song was released in 1991 as part of the album “Loveless.” It is a defining track of the shoegaze genre, characterized by its hazy, dreamy sound, lush guitar textures, and mesmerizing vocals. The lyrics of “When You Sleep” are introspective and atmospheric, creating a sense of dreamlike detachment and otherworldliness. The song’s layered and complex soundscape, combined with its delicate, ethereal quality, make it a standout track on “Loveless” and a perfect representation of My Bloody Valentine’s distinctive sound. “When You Sleep” continues to be a beloved classic among fans of the shoegaze genre and is a testament to the band’s innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music.
17. “I Can’t Sleep” by Clay Walker
“I Can’t Sleep” is a song by country singer Clay Walker, released in 1996. The song features a mid-tempo beat and a twangy, steel guitar-driven melody, showcasing Walker’s traditional country sound. The lyrics express the feelings of a man who is struggling to get a good night’s sleep, due to the absence of his loved one. The song’s haunting, emotional chorus and its relatable subject matter make it a standout track, and one that has resonated with fans of country music. Throughout his career, Clay Walker has established himself as a gifted singer and songwriter, and “I Can’t Sleep” remains one of his most memorable and beloved tracks, cementing its place as a classic of the genre.
18. “Your New Twin Sized Bed” by Death Cab for Cutie
“Your New Twin Sized Bed” is a melancholic indie rock song by American band Death Cab for Cutie, released on their 2013 album “Codes and Keys”. The song is a tender and introspective ballad, featuring lead singer Ben Gibbard’s signature soulful and wistful vocals over a slow and delicate guitar melody. The lyrics deal with the theme of a breakup, as the singer laments the loss of intimacy and comfort that comes with the end of a relationship. Despite its sad subject matter, “Your New Twin Sized Bed” is a beautiful and touching track, showcasing Death Cab for Cutie’s ability to craft emotional and meaningful songs that resonate with listeners. The song is a standout track in the band’s discography, and continues to be a fan favorite and live staple. If you’re a fan of introspective and emotional indie rock, “Your New Twin Sized Bed” is a must-listen track.
19. “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” is a powerful and emotional ballad by the American rock band Aerosmith. The song was released in 1998 and was the main theme of the movie “Armageddon.” It became a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the band’s biggest hits. The song features soaring vocals by lead singer Steven Tyler, accompanied by a sweeping orchestral arrangement and tender piano. The lyrics of “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” express the sentiment of not wanting to miss a single moment with a loved one, and are characterized by their tenderness and romanticism. The song’s powerful and emotional delivery, combined with its memorable melody, has made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.
20. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
“Blinding Lights” is a song by Canadian singer The Weeknd, released in 2019. The song features a pulsing beat, synths, and a catchy chorus, showcasing The Weeknd’s signature mix of R&B, pop, and electronic music. The lyrics describe a dangerous and all-consuming love affair, with the protagonist warning the object of their affection to be careful of their bright and overwhelming attraction. The song’s upbeat and danceable vibe, combined with its emotionally charged lyrics, make it a standout track and a true showcase of The Weeknd’s artistic prowess. Since its release, “Blinding Lights” has become one of The Weeknd’s most popular and successful tracks, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and winning numerous awards. Its lasting impact and widespread popularity have made it a modern classic, cementing The Weeknd’s place as one of the biggest and most influential artists of his generation.
Edward Tomlin 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.
