Essential easy listening listening

The albums that define easy listening.

Our picks for where to start with easy listening — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The easy listening essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Holiday Inn

Bing Crosby

Holiday Inn

A rich tapestry of orchestrated melodies and smooth vocal delivery that defines the golden age of American pop music.

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Selections from the Paramount Production Going My Way

Bing Crosby

Selections from the Paramount Production Going My Way

A warm blend of traditional pop and jazz, filled with heartfelt melodies and Bing's signature soothing voice.

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Esco di rado e parlo ancora meno

Adriano Celentano

Esco di rado e parlo ancora meno

A blend of melodic pop and introspective lyrics that reflects Celentano's enduring artistry and cultural resonance.

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Carpenters

The Carpenters

Carpenters

Melodic harmonies and lush orchestrations create a warm, introspective soundscape that defines The Carpenters' signature style.

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At This Time

Burt Bacharach

At This Time

A lush orchestral landscape woven with introspective lyrics and Bacharach's signature melodic flair.

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Merry Christmas

Andy Williams

Merry Christmas

A warm blend of orchestral arrangements and smooth vocals that evoke the spirit of Christmas nostalgia.

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Close Enough for Love

Andy Williams

Close Enough for Love

A lush collection of standards that melds smooth jazz with sentimental pop, highlighting Williams' iconic vocal warmth.

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Forever Cool

Dean Martin

Forever Cool

Smooth vocals and lush arrangements blend classic standards with a timeless charm that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

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Dino: Italian Love Songs

Dean Martin

Dino: Italian Love Songs

A lush orchestral backdrop enhances Dean Martin's smooth croon, enveloping listeners in a romantic Italian ambiance.

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Unica

Ornella Vanoni

Unica

A tender blend of orchestral pop and intimate balladry that showcases Vanoni's emotive vocal delivery.

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La voglia la pazzia l'incoscienza l'allegria

Ornella Vanoni

La voglia la pazzia l'incoscienza l'allegria

A vibrant blend of traditional Italian melodies and contemporary pop sensibilities, imbued with emotional depth.

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That's What Friends Are For

Johnny Mathis

That's What Friends Are For

Soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics weave together in a lush, romantic tapestry of easy listening.

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Johnny Mathis Sings the Great New American Songbook

Johnny Mathis

Johnny Mathis Sings the Great New American Songbook

A soothing collection of contemporary ballads infused with Mathis's signature romantic touch.

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Songs from St. Somewhere

Jimmy Buffett

Songs from St. Somewhere

A sun-soaked blend of easygoing melodies and reflective lyrics that evoke a laid-back coastal lifestyle.

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Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads

Jimmy Buffett

Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads

A sun-soaked blend of tropical rock melodies and laid-back storytelling that invites escapism.

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