Music and sleep go hand in hand, according to the Sleep Foundation. Playing music before falling asleep can have a variety of benefits, including decreasing stress, releasing dopamine and improving your overall quality of sleep. The recommendation to achieve this level of peaceful sleep is to listen to songs that play at 60 to 80 beats per minute (bpm), so here are six songs from The Hawk that will rock you to sleep.
“Best Part” – Daniel Caesar (feat. H.E.R.)
As two of the R&B scene’s most soothing voices, it is no surprise that Daniel Caesar and H.E.R. decided to collaborate. Their Grammy-winning duet, “Best Part,” is a simple love song that rests at 75 bpm. A low-energy tune, this quintessential R&B hit is the perfect addition to your nighttime relaxation playlist.
“Fire and Rain” – James Taylor
For some people, nighttime is the best chance to reflect on the highs and lows of the day. In one of his most popular songs, “Fire and Rain,” James Taylor reflects on aspects of his personal and professional life. A mellow song set at 76 bpm, “Fire and Rain” is a great choice to play in the background of your nightly reflection.
“Ex-Factor” – Lauryn Hill
While bedtime should be the most relaxing part of your day, sometimes it is hard to forget about your stress while falling asleep. An emotional song about a failing relationship, “Ex-Factor” is filled with hip-hop and soul and rests at 80 bpm. By adding this slow jam to your sleep playlist, you might just be able to break out of your stressful thoughts and sleep peacefully.
“I, Carrion (Icarian)” – Hozier
No matter your age, everyone loves a good bedtime story. A reimagining and romanticizing of the Greek myth of Icarus, “I, Carrion (Icarian)” is an emotional tale set at 77 bpm. So next time you have trouble falling asleep, play this song and get ready to listen to an epic musical fairytale.
“To the Mountains” – Lizzy McAlpine
Well-known in the indie scene, Lizzy McAlpine’s music is full of serene pieces to match your nighttime routine. Sitting at 79 bpm, “To the Mountains” is an emotional song played primarily on the guitar. This tune is the perfect choice to get yourself ready for bedtime, enabling your dreams to escape to the mountains.
