Classic lullabies, and a gentler way to play them

Why classic lullabies last

Classic lullabies are short, slow and easy to remember. They repeat a small tune, use soft words and can be sung by anyone, with no instrument at all. That is why “Rock-a-Bye Baby” and “Hush, Little Baby” have been passed from person to person for generations.

The same ingredients work without words. A slow pulse, a simple melody and soft sounds are what makes an instrumental song feel like a lullaby, and that is what this site is built from. See the lullaby songs guide for the details.

Six famous lullabies

1. Rock-a-Bye Baby

   A traditional English nursery rhyme, with early printings from the 1700s.

   Slow, rocking and simple. Try the Wind-Down or Storybook playlist.

2. Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

   The words come from “The Star”, a poem by Jane Taylor published in 1806. The tune is an older French melody, “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman”.

   Soft and starry. Try Twinkling Star Lullabies.

3. Brahms’ Lullaby (Wiegenlied)

   Johannes Brahms published it in 1868 as his Op. 49 No. 4. The title means “cradle song”.

   A slow rocking waltz feel. Try Deep Sleep Lullabies or Storybook Lullabies.

4. Hush, Little Baby

   An American folk lullaby, passed down by singing, with many versions.

   Gentle and repetitive. Try Cloud Nap Lullabies.

5. All Through the Night

   Based on the Welsh melody “Ar Hyd y Nos”, which is more than 200 years old.

   A flowing, quiet tune. Try Rainy Night Lullabies.

6. Frère Jacques

   A traditional French song, often sung as a round.

   Light and simple. Try Cloud Nap Lullabies.

Dates and origins are summarised from general sources, and many of these songs exist in several versions. This site does not play or sing these songs. It has original instrumentals by Purrple Cat only.

Browse the eight lullaby playlists Bedtime Routine mix

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