Chill beats for rainy days and late-night thoughts. 70–90 BPM.
Lo Fi, short for low fidelity, is a music genre characterized by its relaxed, downtempo beats and intentionally imperfect sound quality. Originating in Japan around 2013, it typically features BPMs between 70 and 90, with instruments like samplers, vinyl crackle, piano, and guitar. It's widely used for studying, working, or unwinding.
The defining artists of Lo-fi — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Lo-fi.
Lo Fi music is characterized by its relaxed, downtempo beats, typically between 70-90 BPM. The sound often includes sampled loops, vinyl crackle, and subtle imperfections like tape hiss or slight pitch variations. Instruments like piano, guitar, and soft synths create a warm, mellow atmosphere.
Rhythmically, Lo Fi uses simple, swung drum patterns with a laid-back feel. The production emphasizes a 'dusty' aesthetic, with low-pass filters and gentle compression. The result is a comforting, nostalgic sound that feels both intimate and familiar.
Lo Fi, short for low fidelity, originated in Japan around 2013 as a subgenre of hip hop and electronic music. It emerged from the chillwave and vaporwave scenes, with producers like Nujabes and J Dilla influencing its aesthetic.
Over time, Lo Fi evolved into a global phenomenon, especially through YouTube livestreams like 'lofi hip hop radio - beats to relax/study to'. Its lo-fi production values, including vinyl crackle and tape hiss, became a signature sound.
Culturally, Lo Fi is associated with relaxation, focus, and nostalgia. It's often used as background music for studying, working, or chilling, and has spawned a community of producers and listeners who value its calming, unpretentious vibe.
How Lo-fi is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
For drum patterns, use a simple kick-snare-hi-hat loop with swing (around 55-65% swing) to create a relaxed groove. Keep the BPM between 70-90, focusing on a slow, head-nodding feel. Layer vinyl crackle and tape hiss over the beat for authenticity.
Typical samples include jazz, soul, and funk records, often pitched down or chopped. Use a sampler to create loops, and add piano or guitar melodies for harmony. The key is to keep the production slightly imperfect—don't over-polish. Use low-pass filters to muffle highs and add warmth. Mix at low levels to preserve the lo-fi character.
Hand-picked, updated weekly. Best for Studying, Working, Relaxing.
Every playlist on Dropo is hand-picked by real musicians, not algorithm-generated. We listen, we pick, we keep it fresh. About Dropo →