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 jazz songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (21–30)
I Never Knew (I Could Love Anybody Like I’m Loving You)Benny Goodman
This is clarinetist Benny Goodman’s “I Never Knew (I Could Love Anybody Like I’m Loving You).” It’s an urban, romantic tune that feels just like a Tom and Jerry soundtrack! Benny Goodman was one of the most prominent players in the genre known as swing jazz, which is very popular among Japanese listeners.
Swing jazz is, in familiar terms, somewhat like a school concert band.
If you watch the movie “Swing Girls,” you’ll gain a deeper understanding of swing jazz!
In The MoodGlenn Miller
It’s a piece composed by Joe Garland, but it became a huge hit through the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s performance and is now one of their signature numbers.
It’s also known as a quintessential big band tune, and many people have probably heard it since it was featured in the Japanese film Swing Girls.
It’s a familiar tune from commercials as well.
Classic Western jazz masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks (31–40)
St.ThomasSonny Rollins
This is a famous tune by saxophonist Sonny Rollins that opens with a distinctive drum intro by Max Roach.
It appears as the first track on the 1956 album Saxophone Colossus, and its bright mood makes it a perfect opener for the record.
Characterized by its use of the calypso rhythm from Caribbean music, it has become a classic jazz standard that continues to be performed by many jazz musicians.
On the Sunny Side of the StreetThe Manhattan Transfer
It was used as a commercial song for Nestlé’s “Home Café Series” and Asahi Beer’s “Clear Asahi,” among others.
The song was released in 1930 for a Broadway musical, with lyrics by Dorothy Fields and music by Jimmy McHugh.
Later, it was performed by a stellar lineup of jazz musicians, including Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey, and Count Basie, and became a jazz standard.
Someday My Prince Will ComeDave Brubeck
This song became famous as an insert song in the 1937 American animated feature film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Dave Brubeck was the first to cover it in 1957.
Since then, it has been performed by renowned jazz musicians and has become a jazz standard.
RivedertiMario Biondi
Mario Biondi is a soul singer from Italy.
Though labeled a soul singer, he’s an artist who masterfully performs a wide range of genres, from jazz to funk.
His greatest appeal is, above all, his uniquely rich, resonant low voice—truly unlike any other.
The bass tones that emanate from his over-two-meter frame are nothing short of breathtaking.
Rivederti is one of his jazz numbers, enveloped in an exceptionally mature atmosphere.
It’s a world-renowned song that he also performed at the Sanremo Music Festival.
Cleopatra’s DreamBud Powell
This song is among the top five most requested numbers at jazz clubs in Japan.
Composed by the great pianist Bud Powell, it opens his 1959 album The Scene Changes.
Its minor-key, melancholy mood may resonate with Japanese listeners.
It sounds simple, but the original version is also known for being played in a notoriously difficult key.