soft rock
music genre derived from popular and rock music
Soft rock envelops you in a warm, melodic embrace, where gentle guitar strums and lush harmonies create a soothing soundscape. The genre thrives on emotional narratives, combining heartfelt lyrics with smooth instrumentation that can range from lilting piano melodies to soft percussion. Imagine driving down a sunlit highway with the windows down, as songs that feel both intimate and expansive provide the perfect soundtrack to life’s quieter moments.
Emerging in the late 1960s and flourishing through the 1970s, soft rock developed as a counterbalance to the louder, more aggressive sounds of hard rock and psychedelic music. Artists like Bread brought tender ballads to the forefront, while Carole King’s “Tapestry” showcased the power of vulnerable storytelling. The genre found its peak in this era, marked by classics from the likes of Simon & Garfunkel and James Taylor, who encapsulated the spirit of disillusionment and introspection that resonated deeply with listeners.
For newcomers looking to dive into soft rock, start with Carole King’s "Tapestry"—a masterclass in melody and emotion that remains timeless. Next, explore James Taylor's "Sweet Baby James,” which marries simplicity with profound lyrical depth. Don’t miss Fleetwood Mac’s "Rumours," an album that perfectly captures the complexity of relationships over serene melodies. Finally, give a listen to Pablo Cruise’s "A Place in the Sun" for a sunny, feel-good vibe. Once you’ve soaked in these foundational works, consider venturing into adjacent genres like singer-songwriter or adult contemporary for even more sonic delights.
217 artists in the catalog.
Guides for soft rock artists
Top soft rock albums
See essentials
All soft rock artists
The Doobie Brothers
blue-eyed soul, pop music
Kim Carnes
country music, folk music
Jack Johnson
pop rock
Randy Newman
alternative country, blues
Stevie Nicks
country rock, pop rock
Air Supply
Casting Crowns
Christian rock, contemporary Christian music
Harry Nilsson
Brill Building, baroque pop
James Blunt
blues, rock music
Alla Pugacheva
Russian pop, blues
Carole King
Brill Building, adult contemporary music
Sheena Easton
adult contemporary music, contemporary R&B
John Farnham
adult contemporary music, pop rock
The Pointer Sisters
country music, gospel music
Gilbert O'Sullivan
pop music
Babyface
hip-hop soul, new jack swing
About soft rock
What is soft rock?
music genre derived from popular and rock music
Where should I start with soft rock?
Start with "Graceland" by Paul Simon. It captures what makes soft rock worth exploring.
What are the best soft rock albums?
The soft rock albums worth hearing first: "Graceland" by Paul Simon, "Let's Talk About Love" by Céline Dion, "Live over Europe 2007" by Genesis, "From Genesis to Revelation" by Genesis and "Three Sides Live" by Genesis.
How many soft rock artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 217 soft rock artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.