17 Best Chill Songs of All Time: Ultimate Chill

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here, from Level Tunes, bringing you something special today.

You know, there’s nothing like a chill song to unwind, whether you’re lounging at home or decompressing after a wild night on the decks.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of the 17 best chill songs of all time – a mix of classic vibes and modern beats that have resonated with me deeply.

I believe music connects us, and these tracks are my way of sharing that serene, soul-soothing experience with you.

So, whether you’re a hardcore DJ or just someone who loves to get lost in the rhythm, this list is crafted with all of you in mind.

Let’s dive into these tunes that have not only defined genres but have also been my personal soundtrack for those much-needed chill moments.

Get ready to experience some timeless melodies that are sure to add a touch of tranquility to your playlist!

Here are the best chill songs of all time that you can check out:

List Of Best Chill Songs of All Time

Best Chill Songs of All Time in a list format:

1. Massive Attack – Teardrop

From the iconic album “Mezzanine” (1998), released under Virgin Records, “Teardrop” is a masterpiece by Massive Attack. This song features the haunting vocals of Elizabeth Fraser and encapsulates a perfect blend of trip-hop and ambient styles. Its ethereal melody and the gentle, pulsating beat make it a timeless chill-out track. I chose it for its ability to transport listeners to a dream-like state, making it a staple in any relaxation playlist.

2. Portishead – Glory Box

“Glory Box,” from the album “Dummy” (1994) under Go! Discs/London, is a testament to Portishead’s influence on the trip-hop genre. Beth Gibbons’ soulful voice, combined with the melancholic guitar riffs, creates a hypnotic atmosphere. This song speaks to the heart with its raw emotion and lingering sense of longing. It’s a go-to for me when I need to feel grounded yet free, a true musical paradox.

3. Air – La Femme d’Argent

The opening track of “Moon Safari” (1998), released by Source and Virgin Records, “La Femme d’Argent” is a sonic journey. French duo Air crafts an instrumental masterpiece with a smooth, flowing bassline and dreamy synth textures. This song epitomizes the chill-out genre and is my pick for its ability to elevate any moment into a serene escape.

4. Bonobo – Noctuary

From the album “Dial ‘M’ for Monkey” (2003) under Ninja Tune, “Noctuary” by Bonobo is a fusion of electronic and world music elements. Simon Green, aka Bonobo, uses a diverse range of instruments and samples to create a rich, layered sound. This track is ideal for late-night introspection or early morning calm, embodying the essence of chill.

5. Zero 7 – In the Waiting Line

Featured on the album “Simple Things” (2001) and released under Ultimate Dilemma, “In the Waiting Line” by Zero 7 is a downtempo delight. With Sia’s mesmerizing vocals and the soothing instrumentals, it’s a track that encapsulates the feeling of peaceful solitude. I always find myself returning to this song for its gentle, comforting embrace.

6. Morcheeba – The Sea

This track from Morcheeba’s album “Big Calm” (1998), released by Indochina and Sire Records, is a smooth blend of trip-hop and blues. Skye Edwards’ soothing vocals, combined with the laid-back grooves, make “The Sea” a perfect song to relax to. Its oceanic vibes and serene melody always bring a sense of calm to my day.

7. Thievery Corporation – Lebanese Blonde

From the album “The Mirror Conspiracy” (2000) under Eighteenth Street Lounge Music, “Lebanese Blonde” is a Thievery Corporation classic. This song, with its fusion of world music influences and chillout beats, takes you on a cultural and musical odyssey. I love it for its ability to transport the listener to a different place and time, embodying the spirit of global exploration.

8. DJ Shadow – Midnight in a Perfect World

Featured on “Endtroducing…..” (1996), released by Mo’ Wax and A&M Records, DJ Shadow’s “Midnight in a Perfect World” is a monumental track in the instrumental hip-hop scene. Its cinematic soundscapes and expert sampling craft an otherworldly experience. This song is a journey through sound, making it a must-listen for any chill session.

9. Moby – Porcelain

From “Play” (1999), released under V2 Records, “Porcelain” by Moby is an emotive and hauntingly beautiful piece. The gentle piano melody, combined with Moby’s soft vocals, creates a sense of melancholic tranquility. It’s a track that resonates with me for its simplicity and emotional depth, perfect for reflective moments.

10. The Cinematic Orchestra – To Build a Home

This song, from the album “Ma Fleur” (2007) released by Ninja Tune, features the soul-stirring vocals of Patrick Watson. “To Build a Home” by The Cinematic Orchestra is a poignant and beautifully orchestrated piece. Its delicate piano and string arrangements build into a powerful crescendo, making it a profound listening experience. I chose this song for its ability to evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and hope.

11. Norah Jones – Come Away With Me

“Come Away With Me” is the title track from Norah Jones’s debut album (2002) released by Blue Note Records. This song, with Norah’s silky, smooth voice and the gentle piano accompaniment, is the epitome of relaxation. It’s a track that has always resonated with me for its simple, heartfelt melody and soothing rhythm. It’s like a warm, comforting embrace in musical form.

12. Sigur Rós – Sæglópur

From their album “Takk…” (2005), released by Geffen Records, Sigur Rós’s “Sæglópur” is an ethereal journey. The Icelandic band is known for their unique, ambient soundscapes, and this track is no exception. Its build-up from a serene piano to a powerful, full-band crescendo is truly mesmerizing. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners to a different world, one filled with beauty and emotion.

13. Sade – No Ordinary Love

Featured on the album “Love Deluxe” (1992) and released under Epic Records, “No Ordinary Love” is a classic by Sade. Her smooth, sultry voice, coupled with the slow, steady rhythm of the music, creates a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. This song has always been a go-to for me when I need a touch of elegance and calm in my life.

14. Beach House – Space Song

From the album “Depression Cherry” (2015), released by Sub Pop, “Space Song” by Beach House embodies the dream-pop genre. The track’s ethereal synths and Victoria Legrand’s haunting vocals create a dreamy, almost otherworldly sound. It’s a track that I find incredibly calming, perfect for drifting into a daydream or getting lost in thought.

15. Enigma – Return to Innocence

This track from Enigma’s album “The Cross of Changes” (1993), released by Virgin Records, blends new-age sounds with world music influences. “Return to Innocence” is known for its distinctive chant and ethereal vibe. It’s a song that always brings me a sense of peace and a reminder of the purity of the human spirit.

16. The xx – Intro

Featured on their debut album “xx” (2009), released by Young Turks, “Intro” by The xx is a minimalist, yet powerful instrumental track. The interplay of guitar and bass, along with the subtle electronic beats, creates a mesmerizing rhythm. This song is my pick for its simplicity and ability to set a calm, introspective mood.

17. Coldplay – Yellow

From their album “Parachutes” (2000), released by Parlophone, “Yellow” by Coldplay is a song that combines melodic guitar riffs with Chris Martin’s distinctive vocals. It’s a track that, despite its popularity, maintains a sense of intimacy and warmth. I’ve always appreciated “Yellow” for its uplifting melody and heartfelt lyrics, making it a perfect conclusion to this chill playlist.

Fun Facts: Best Chill Songs of All Time

1. Massive Attack – Teardrop

• Fact: The song’s famous harpsichord melody was actually a happy accident. Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja, also known as 3D, was trying out a new keyboard when he stumbled upon the riff that would become the backbone of “Teardrop.”

2. Portishead – Glory Box

• Fact: “Glory Box” samples “Ike’s Rap II” by Isaac Hayes, a practice common in the trip-hop genre. The use of this sample creates the song’s distinctively smooth and soulful sound.

3. Air – La Femme d’Argent

• Fact: The title “La Femme d’Argent” translates to “The Silver Woman.” The band never officially explained the meaning behind the title, adding an air of mystery to this already enigmatic track.

4. Bonobo – Noctuary

• Fact: Simon Green, the man behind Bonobo, named the track “Noctuary” from the word ‘nocturnal’, reflecting the song’s dreamy, night-time vibe.

5. Zero 7 – In the Waiting Line

• Fact: The song gained widespread recognition after being featured in the 2004 movie “Garden State,” which had a soundtrack that won a Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media.

6. Morcheeba – The Sea

• Fact: “The Sea” is often praised for its nostalgic feel. Morcheeba’s Skye Edwards described it as a song about remembering the simplicity and the joy of being a child.

7. Thievery Corporation – Lebanese Blonde

• Fact: The song title “Lebanese Blonde” refers to a strain of cannabis from Lebanon. The band is known for infusing their music with subtle references to cannabis culture.

8. DJ Shadow – Midnight in a Perfect World

• Fact: DJ Shadow, known for his skill in sampling, used several obscure samples to create this track, including “The Human Abstract” by David Axelrod and “Releasing Hypnotical Gases” by Organized Konfusion.

9. Moby – Porcelain

• Fact: Moby has said that “Porcelain” was the last track to be included on “Play.” He almost left it off the album because he thought it was too mellow. Today, it’s one of his most beloved tracks.

10. The Cinematic Orchestra – To Build a Home

• Fact: The song features Canadian singer-songwriter Patrick Watson. It has been widely used in film and television, known for its emotional depth and cinematic quality.

And there you have it, friends – a journey through the timeless vibes of the 17 best chill songs ever. Each track holds a story, a moment of serenity, and a touch of magic. So, grab your headphones, find your spot, and let the music take you away. Peace out!

Thanks for reading.

TBone