[2026] Jazz BGM: A collection of recommended classics for work and study

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

What kind of music do you play when you want to focus on work or studying? Many people may find that pop or kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs) can be distracting—yet complete silence makes it hard to concentrate.

That’s why I recommend jazz as background music.

The pleasant melodies of the piano and the rich tones of the saxophone add a stylish atmosphere without getting in the way of your tasks.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected classic jazz tracks that are perfect for working and studying.

In the first half, we focus on songs from the 2010s to the 2020s, and in the second half, we introduce timeless standards that have been loved across generations.

We hope you’ll find a new favorite track!

[2026] Jazz BGM: A curated collection of classic tracks recommended for work and study (41–50)

Days of Wine and RosesJulie London

Days of Wine and Roses [with Japanese translation] - Julie London

Days of Wine and RosesJulie London

You can really feel the tender, adult affection of looking back on a wonderful love through her languid, husky singing.

Booze, roses, and romance suit Julie London so perfectly.

It’s the very essence of a voice that paints a picture and carries true conviction.

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Over the RainbowModern Jazz Quartet

Over The Rainbow by the Modern Jazz Quartet

Over the RainbowModern Jazz Quartet

As background music, how pleasantly the melody flows.

It matches the song’s calmness, and the unpretentious performance soothes the heart.

I feel entranced—before I know it, I might just drift off to sleep (in a good way).

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caravanNew York Jazz Trio

New York Jazz Trio – Caravan (29/05/2010)

caravanNew York Jazz Trio

Each instrument was featured, allowing us to fully savor its unique character.

Caravan is a familiar tune, but hearing it presented so luxuriantly makes even wandering feel right, leaving you with a rich, contented feeling.

The performers are all clearly enjoying the music as well.

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Work SongNina Simone

Nina Simone- “Work Song” Live (Merv Griffin Show 1966)

Work SongNina Simone

It’s a song that feels distinctly American, and you can sense the era, the city, and the movement of its people.

Things don’t go the way you want, but there’s a toughness that says you’ll climb back up someday.

The powerful vocals never turn dark or give in; it’s too polished to be called a dream, yet it still comes across as forward-looking.

It’s what I want to listen to when I need a boost.

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Lover, come back to me.Sam Taylor

Sam Taylor / Lover, Come Back to Me

Lover, come back to me.Sam Taylor

I’ve heard this song performed by several singers in Japan, and it didn’t feel out of place—perhaps the feel of the song suits Japanese sensibilities.

Here, I was able to fully savor the subtle charm of the saxophone performance.

The saxophone was played as if speaking, as though touching a precious treasure.

The imagery of the piece broadened for me.

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