[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
The genre of music without vocals—so-called “instrumentals,” also known in Japan by the abbreviation “inst”—covers a wide range of pieces, from film soundtracks and classical music to 15-second commercial jingles.
In this article, we’ve curated a broad selection of recommended instrumental masterpieces, from world-famous soundtrack tunes to fiery guitar instrumentals and soothing lounge music.
We hope it sparks a new realization—“Songs without lyrics might actually be great!”
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[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumental Music: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (81–90)
A taste of honeyThe Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass

The original is a Broadway musical from 1960 (music by Bobby Scott).
It became instantly famous when the Beatles featured it on their 1963 debut album.
This version was included on the classic 1965 album “Bittersweet Samba” and reached No.
7 on the U.S.
singles chart.
Compared to the Beatles’ rendition, aside from the presence or absence of vocals, the light, Latin rhythmic feel is especially pleasing.
Walking with youFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama’s new instrumental piece “Walking with you” is a moving work that stirs the heart.
Released in October 2023 in a Nippon Life web movie and featured in their commercial, the song carries a message of “walking together with someone you cherish.” Warmth and hope.
Its beautiful yet wistful guitar melody will gently find its way into listeners’ hearts.
Among the many facets of Fukuyama’s musicality on display, this piece especially highlights the strength of the melodies he weaves.
It’s perfect for when weekdays are hectic and you want to relax on the weekend, or when you wish to spend a quiet moment thinking of someone special.
You’re sure to discover a new way to appreciate Masaharu Fukuyama’s music!
Theme from Mission: ImpossibleLalo Schifrin

This uniquely tension-filled melody is something almost everyone has heard at least once, regardless of age.
It’s the main theme of the hugely popular spy-action series Mission: Impossible.
While the soundtrack by film-music master Danny Elfman for the 1996 film adaptation starring Tom Cruise is probably the most widely known, this time let’s introduce the original version used in the 1966 TV series.
Composed by Argentine-born master musician and jazz pianist Lalo Schifrin, its sound—woven from a distinctive 5/4 rhythm—is incredibly cool and thrilling.
Many arrangements were released later on.
If you’re not familiar with this original version, be sure to check it out.
Star Wars ThemeMeco

A U.S.
No.
1 hit in 1977.
Riding the wave of the blockbuster success of the film Star Wars, this disco-arranged version became an even bigger hit than John Williams’s original “Star Wars Theme,” which peaked at No.
10 in the U.S.
It’s well known that top-tier musicians like Steve Gadd and Marcus Miller took part in the recording, and the track is exceptionally well crafted.
FootsStuff

A masterful performance by the fusion band Stuff, led by Steve Gadd, arguably the number-one drummer of our time.
From the relaxed intro, you can already feel the soul of fusion, and the piece unfolds with the distinctive melodic sensibility that defines them.
child’s anthemTOTO

This is the song that opens TOTO’s first album.
It’s quite moving to think that this was the starting point for this super band.
Even recently, a cover of this song was used in a TV commercial, so I think many people find it familiar.
TOTO is a well-known group of top-tier technicians, and this track really lets you savor their musicianship.
Jeff Porcaro’s drumming in particular is phenomenal.
[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumental Music: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (91–100)
ChampagnePolyphia

Speaking of Polyphia, they’re well-known in certain circles as a band where every member is handsome—but it’s not just their looks; their music is handsome too.
From the very beginning they use catchy, accessible phrases while effortlessly pulling off high-level techniques.



