Recommendation of Wa-Jazz: A Masterpiece of Japanese Jazz—One Must-Listen Album
If you’re not particularly interested in jazz as a genre, you might just think of it as music from abroad.
In fact, here in Japan, we’ve produced many world-class players, and countless remarkable classic albums have been released.
This time, we’re presenting a selection of essential “Wa-Jazz” masterpieces by Japanese musicians.
While focusing on timeless classics from the ’60s and ’70s, the lineup also turns its attention to works released in the ’90s and 2000s.
Please enjoy jazz music with a distinctly Japanese flavor—something a little different from overseas jazz!
- Great for karaoke too! Jazz classics you’ll want to sing at least once
- Recommended Japanese jazz bands — from classic legends to rising young groups
- [2026] A Collection of Classic Japanese Ballads with a Jazz Flavor
- Masterpieces of Japanese fusion—From nostalgic classics to recent recommendations—
- Jazz commercial songs. Popular commercial songs.
- Ranking of Popular Jazz Songs
- Jazz Piano Masterpieces: From Classic Essentials to Contemporary Favorites
- [Autumn Jazz] Classic and Popular Jazz Songs to Enjoy in the Fall
- Today's Jazz: Tunes for today! A selection of timeless classics and contemporary jazz
- A roundup of famous jazz standards featured in the hugely popular jazz manga BLUE GIANT
- Start here first! Classic jazz-rock masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks.
- Today's recommended ballads: A carefully curated selection of heartwarming, gem-like masterpieces!
- [Jazz Intro] Classic Jazz Tracks Recommended for First-Time Listeners
Recommendation of Wa-Jazz: One Essential Japanese Jazz Album (91–100)
Babylonia WindSugimoto Kiyoshi
This is a signature piece by Kiyoshi Sugimoto, regarded as the most important jazz guitarist of the 1970s.
He also held a pioneering position as a Japan-inspired jazz artist, and the track itself captures the raw edge that symbolized the jazz scene of that era.
It’s a deeply evocative number that lets you savor a smoky, adult, jet‑black jazz.
I want to eat ramen.Yano Akiko × Uehara Hiromi
Akiko Yano’s classic hit “Ramen Tabetai” in a luxurious version with world-renowned jazz pianist Hiromi Uehara! This is amazing.
And slipping Miles Davis’s “So What” into the intro is such a classy touch!
The Future Projection IIFujimura Maki
Maki Fujimura, who is active mainly in the Kansai area, sings “Mirai Yosouzu II” in a lively bossa nova arrangement with just one guitar, unlike the original ballad.
She’s apparently doing a J-pop live show at the end of the year, so if you’re into Japanese jazz, be sure to check it out!
RomanceSuzuki Akiko
It’s a timeless masterpiece whose beauty still resonates today, letting you truly feel the rich tone of the Rhodes piano.
Sampled widely both in Japan and abroad, its gorgeous Rhodes loop is one of a kind, and the meticulous attention to the drum drop-ins and the airy sax makes it a truly supreme track.
Life’s A FlameYuji Ohno feat. Lileth
This is a swing jazz number by the master Yuji Ohno.
With its bouncy rhythm, tight band, and standout vocals, it’s an exquisite track.
It’s highly glamorous, yet—filtered through a Japanese sensibility—it also conveys the profound depth of Black culture.