Famous Western jazz classics. Recommended popular songs.

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.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

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.

Classic jazz songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (91–100)

Over the RainbowJudy Garland

Judy Garland – Over The Rainbow (Subtitiles)

Over the RainbowJudy Garland

This theme song from the musical The Wizard of Oz is Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a classic beloved and covered by many musicians.

It gives you a sense of excitement, as if foreshadowing the adventure to come.

Immerse yourself in the beautiful vocals of the then-young Judy Garland.

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You And The Night And The MusicMal Waldon trio

Mal Waldron Trio – You and the Night and the Music

You And The Night And The MusicMal Waldon trio

It’s a song composed by Arthur Schwartz, with lyrics, that is often performed by jazz vocalists.

Of course, many instrumentalists have featured it as well, so many of you have likely heard it.

As the title suggests, it evokes the atmosphere of a nighttime jazz club.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Classic Western jazz masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks (101–110)

Autumn In New YorkBillie Holiday

Autumn in New York

Autumn In New YorkBillie Holiday

One of the quintessential songs people feel like listening to in autumn is “Autumn Leaves,” but when it comes to hidden gems about the season, some of you might be reminded of this song as well.

Composed by Vernon Duke in 1934, it was also used in the film of the same title released in 2000.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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TenderlySara Vaughan

Tenderly

TenderlySara Vaughan

When it comes to jazz standards, most are songs originally used in musicals or films, but this piece was composed from the outset as a popular song and became a hit when a young Sarah Vaughan sang it.

The music was written by Walter Gross, with lyrics by Jack Lawrence.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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In conclusion

Many famous and popular songs born throughout jazz history have become standards and are often covered across genres, so many of you have probably come across tunes you recognize. It’s also recommended to check out tracks by popular contemporary jazz artists and enjoy experiencing the evolution of jazz as you listen!