Many chill songs have risen to fame not only for their relaxing vibes but also for earning major awards or earning critical recognition. These tracks blend serene melodies and emotional resonance, making them staples for soothing playlists worldwide.
Songs That Chilled and Won Awards
“Moon River” by Andy Williams stands out as one of the most iconic chill songs, originally featured in the film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1961. This song’s mellow arrangement and dreamy lyrics have made it a timeless favorite for anyone seeking comfort and nostalgia.
Another celebrated chill anthem is Sade’s “By Your Side,” released in 2000. While it might not have clinched a Grammy for this particular track, Sade’s influence on smooth, soulful downtempo music remains immense. The song’s calm, romantic energy keeps it prominent in both popular and critical chillout playlists.
Adele’s emotionally rich “Easy On Me,” from her 2021 album, became a global hit and won multiple Grammy awards. It’s a soft piano ballad that brings a gentle, introspective mood, making it ideal for relaxing or unwinding at the end of a hectic day.
Jack Johnson’s “Upside Down,” originally part of the “Curious George” soundtrack, received a Grammy nomination and introduced a playful, breezy style that defines feel-good chillpop. Johnson’s easy-going delivery and acoustic guitar work make this a perennial playlist choice.
Critically Recognized Chill Classics
Leon Bridges’ “River,” although not a Grammy winner, earned significant critical acclaim and is often cited among the best modern chill tracks. Its gospel-inflected soul and gentle tempo have made it a staple for stress relief and quiet reflection.
Radiohead’s “Separator,” from their album “The King of Limbs,” may not immediately scream “mainstream,” but it’s been praised for its serene, hypnotic qualities and received strong critical attention for its innovative sound. Similarly, Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek” won acclaim and is notable for her pioneering use of the vocoder, giving the song an ethereal, tranquil edge.
Kacey Musgraves’s “Oh, What a World” not only elevates country-pop to new heights but also received Grammy attention as part of her award-winning “Golden Hour” album. The track’s laid-back groove and dreamy lyrics transport listeners into a realm of easy wonder.
From Critic Acclaim to Playlists
Whether looking to unwind or curate a mellow evening, these songs have earned their reputation through awards, nominations, and continuing influence:
- “Moon River” – Andy Williams
- “By Your Side” – Sade
- “Easy On Me” – Adele
- “Upside Down” – Jack Johnson
- “River” – Leon Bridges
- “Separator” – Radiohead
- “Hide and Seek” – Imogen Heap
- “Oh, What a World” – Kacey Musgraves
When in doubt about what chill songs to reach for, look to the ones that have been loved, awarded, or praised for years—their calm is tried, tested, and truly recognized.
Every week I publish a new playlist of some of the best chill songs I’ve found. I call this Neural Flow and all of my playlist can be found at: https://linktr.ee/neural_flow