“Sweet Lullaby” is a dreamy, ethereal world music song by Deep Forest, released in March 1992 with “Forest Hymn” on the B-side as a single from their self-titled debut album. The track became an international hit, known for its blend of electronic ambient sounds and traditional folk influences, creating a hypnotic and soothing atmosphere.
The song is built around a sampled vocal melody from a traditional Baegu lullaby from the Solomon Islands, originally recorded by ethnomusicologist Hugo Zemp in the 1970s. The lyrics, sung in the native Baegu language, express a gentle, comforting lullaby that has been passed down through generations.
Musically, Sweet Lullaby features soft synth textures, tribal percussion, and an enchanting melody, blending new age, electronic, and world music elements. The song’s serene, meditative quality made it a favorite in chillout and relaxation playlists.
The song was a commercial success, charting in multiple countries, including France, the UK, and the U.S., and helping establish Deep Forest as pioneers of the “ethno-electronic” genre.