Famous Western jazz classics. Recommended popular songs.
Jazz has a longer history than rock or pop and encompasses many subgenres, so it’s no surprise that many people feel it’s a bit intimidating to get into.
Some may have a mental block because of the image they have of jazz, but in fact, there are countless famous jazz tunes you’ve probably heard somewhere—whether as timeless standards loved across generations, or as songs used in commercials and film scores.
In this article, we’ve gathered recommended classics and popular tracks that even jazz beginners can enjoy.
Focusing on vintage jazz numbers while mixing in standout tracks from contemporary jazz artists who’ve been attracting attention in recent years, we present a richly varied selection.
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Classic Western jazz masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks (71–80)
Moonlight in VermontZoot Sims
When it comes to mellow saxophonists, no one surpasses Zoot Sims.
He’s a musician whose playing appeals to connoisseurs, and his song selections are wonderfully diverse.
This rendition of “Moonlight in Vermont” is a masterpiece that showcases the very best of Zoot Sims.
Satin DollOscar Peterson
Oscar Peterson is also a pianist well known in Japan.
He’s considered one of the greats, with no one surpassing him when it comes to playing standards.
“Satin Doll” is a famous standard, too, and it’s easy to listen to.
Golden EarringsRay Bryant
Ray Bryant may not be flashy, but he’s a pianist favored by connoisseurs.
His playing is heavy and sombre, which really resonates with the Japanese sensibility.
Golden Earrings has a nostalgic melody and is a very accessible classic.
Social CallSamara Joy
It’s a tune composed by jazz player Gigi Gryce, to which vocalist Jon Hendricks later added lyrics.
The lyrics basically mean something like, “I dropped by to say hello to a woman I’m a bit interested in.” Even though they were added later, they’re quite stylish, aren’t they? In winter, we often visit acquaintances’ homes for Christmas parties and such, so it’s a perfect song for the situation.
Samara Joy is an American jazz singer who has won a Grammy Award.
I’m excited to see what she does next.
C Jam BluesCharles Mingus
This piece by Duke Ellington is a blues progression that uses only the notes G and C repeatedly, making it popular even among beginner jazz players.
It’s amazing how, in the hands of someone with good taste, just that is enough to make a complete tune.
Because the theme is simple, it’s often used for jam sessions with musicians meeting for the first time.
Now’s the TimeCharlie Parker
There are countless classics in the 12-bar jazz blues tradition, and among the most famous is saxophonist Charlie Parker’s “Now’s the Time.” His distinctive phrases have deeply influenced many jazz musicians, and this piece features quintessential, textbook examples of them.
Although he passed away at the young age of 34, his achievements truly helped shape the very foundations of jazz.
Hat And BeardEric Dolphy
Out to Lunch!, released in 1964, is the album that jazz bass clarinet pioneer Eric Dolphy recorded just before his death.
One of its tracks is Hat and Beard, a piece that showcases his distinctive rhythms and phrasing.
Incidentally, the title “hat and beard” refers to the pianist Thelonious Monk.