new age music
genre of popular music
New age music envelops you in a soothing soundscape that feels like a gentle embrace. It's characterized by lush synthesizers, ethereal melodies, and organic textures, creating an atmosphere that invites relaxation and introspection. You might find shimmering chimes or soft flutes intertwining with ambient pads, evoking a sense of peacefulness that encourages the mind to wander. The emotional register varies from tranquil serenity to deep reflection, making it a perfect backdrop for meditation or simply unwinding after a long day.
Emerging in the late 1970s and reaching its peak in the 1980s, new age music grew as a response to the chaotic sounds of popular rock and electronic music of the time. Artists were influenced by Eastern spiritual traditions and environmental themes, combining technology with natural instrumentation. Pioneers like Enya, whose haunting vocals on "Watermark" captured hearts worldwide, and Vangelis with his cinematic compositions in "Blade Runner," shaped the genre’s identity. Meanwhile, George Winston's piano-centric works brought an intimate touch to the broader new age landscape, inviting listeners into serene landscapes painted through sound.
For those curious to dive in, start with Enya’s "Watermark" for its mesmerizing harmonies and rich textures. George Winston’s "December" offers beautifully simple piano pieces that evoke seasonal imagery. Don’t miss Lisa Gerrard’s contribution on the "Gladiator" soundtrack; her otherworldly voice opens up deep emotional channels. Lastly, check out "Ambient 1: Music for Airports" by Brian Eno for a foundational experience in ambient sound. As you explore further, keep an ear open for adjacent styles like chill-out and ambient music; they share that same ethereal quality while broadening your listening palette.
181 artists in the catalog.
Guides for new age music artists
Top new age music albums
See essentials
All new age music artists
Mike Oldfield
Celtic fusion, ambient music
Enya
Celtic music, operatic pop
Sting
blue-eyed soul, jazz
Rick Wakeman
Christian music, ambient music
Clannad
Jack DeJohnette
free jazz, jazz
Vangelis
ambient music, electronic music
Vanessa Paradis
indie pop, pop music
Kitarō
ambient music, electronica
George Winston
Yanni
instrumental music
Moya Brennan
David Arkenstone
Emilie Autumn
classical music, dark cabaret
Gregorian
Gregorian chant, crossover
Deep Forest
ambient music, electronic music
About new age music
What is new age music?
genre of popular music
Where should I start with new age music?
Start with "The Seven Wonders of the World" by Rick Wakeman. It captures what makes new age music worth exploring.
What are the best new age music albums?
The new age music albums worth hearing first: "The Seven Wonders of the World" by Rick Wakeman, "El Greco" by Vangelis, "Shepherd Moons" by Enya, "Paint the Sky with Stars" by Enya and "Only Time: The Collection" by Enya.
How many new age music artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 181 new age music artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.