[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.

Crimson Sun (Sippin’ ‘n’ Chippin’)T-Bones

Crimson Sun / T-Bones (The T-Bones – Sippin’ n Chippin’)

Released in 1966.

It didn’t make the U.S.

Top 40, but it became a hit in Japan after being used as a radio program theme.

Because of that, it still gets occasional airplay even now—proof of its enduring popularity.

It’s a classic guitar instrumental, but perhaps its catchy melody and simple arrangement worked in its favor.

When the drum solo in the intro kicks in, it really lifts your spirits.

It even ends with female chorus vocals and wraps up with organ—very skillfully arranged.

JessicaThe Allman Brothers Band

The Allman Brothers Band – Jessica | Live at University Of Florida Bandshell (1982)

Music from the American South has a distinctive earthy grit.

Because of this, rock from the South is sometimes categorized and referred to as “Southern rock.” Among the Allman Brothers Band’s instrumental tracks—the quintessential Southern rock group—the especially famous one is “Jessica.”

Cissy StrutThe Meters

The Meters – Cissy Strut

The Meters are an instrumental R&B band that produced a sound similar to Booker T.

Their music was called ‘New Orleans funk.’ ‘Cissy Strut’ is a special number for New Orleans funk, serving as the first track on their debut album.

Theme of Hanzawa Naoki ~Main Title~Takayuki Hattori

Theme of Hanzawa Naoki ~Main Title~

It’s a masterpiece, memorable for the harpsichord taking the lead melody, intertwining with a rich orchestral sound to create a distinctive sense of tension! It’s the main theme of the TBS TV drama Hanzawa Naoki, which aired in 2013 and became a huge hit—many people are sure to recall the show as soon as they hear this piece.

The composer is the genius Takayuki Hattori, who has created music for countless classic dramas, TV programs, and films.

The Hattori family is also known for producing many renowned musicians.

This main theme has a heroic quality that stirs the fighting spirit just by listening, and when you’re facing hardship or frustration, why not play this track and rouse yourself with a spirited “I’ll pay you back double!”

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Avenue AABC

Avenue A

The opening track of the 1987 album Alphabet City.

“Alphabet City” is the name of a neighborhood in Manhattan, New York, organized by streets called Avenues A through D.

The song title is likely a play on that.

ABC had become a duo by this point, and from this album they released their biggest U.S.

hit, “When Smokey Sings.” You could say this track serves as an intro leading into “When Smokey Sings.” It’s built from sound effects of street noise and bodiless, mist-like synth tones, but the moment the intro to “When…” emerges from the haze is truly remarkable.

Incidentally, the album closes with a track called “Avenue Z.”