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 (41–50)
It’s Only A Paper MoonNat King Cole
It’s a song that became a hit for Nat King Cole.
Originally, it was a number from the play “The Great Magoo.” The lyrics were written by Billy Rose and E.
Y.
Harburg, and the music was composed by Harold Arlen.
Its original title was “If You Believed in Me,” which came from the song’s final phrase.
Western jazz masterpieces. Recommended popular songs (51–60)
Stolen MomentsOliver Nelson
One of Oliver Nelson’s signature pieces, he was not only a saxophonist but also active as a composer and conductor.
It’s said that he was inspired to pursue composition after hearing the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra while in Japan with the Marine Corps band, making him, perhaps unexpectedly, a musician with ties to Japan.
This piece is his final work, featuring a calm, steady bass line over which trumpets, saxophones, flutes, and other wind instruments perform as if in a graceful dance.
Sakura StampYano Saori
A charming work that heralds the arrival of spring was released in March 2005.
Characterized by Saori Yano’s warm tone, this album is perfect for spring drives and picnics.
Collaborations with powerhouse musicians like Nicholas Payton and Eric Alexander also shine.
Yano’s fresh, vibrant playing seems to symbolize springtime in Japan and is sure to make your heart dance.
It’s a must-listen not only for jazz fans but also for anyone who wants to feel the changing of the seasons.
You’ll surely be captivated by Yano’s mature expressiveness, which stands in striking contrast to her youth.
SomosBuika
Buika is famous for incorporating a variety of genres—such as jazz and R&B—based on flamenco.
Above all, her greatest appeal is undoubtedly her exceptional vocal ability.
Among the many artists out there, she definitely ranks in the top five for her extraordinary singing.
“Somos” is one of her jazz numbers.
With strong flamenco elements mixed in, it has a distinctly different vibe from the jazz you might usually listen to.
Be sure to check it out.
SpiritsAlbert Ayler
Albert Ayler, a musician indispensable to any discussion of 1960s free jazz, undertook numerous avant-garde experiments.
This track, too, conveys a passionate, aggressive impression.
Needless to say, the saxophone’s fluid melodic lines, as if rampaging wildly, are superb.
Be sure to also focus on the rhythm section—the drums and bass—that keep driving a hot beat throughout!
All of MeBillie Holiday
This is Billie Holiday’s “All Of Me.” Alongside Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, she’s sometimes counted among the top three female jazz vocalists.
She led a tumultuous life, and the one-of-a-kind voice that poured from her lips is truly first-rate.
She seems laid-back, yet there’s a certain melancholy in her aura.
Her distinctive vocals may be an acquired taste, but before you know it, you’ll be utterly captivated.
I’m In The Mood For LoveJames Moody
It’s the theme song from the 1935 musical film “Every Night at Eight,” with lyrics by Dorothy Fields and music by Jimmy McHugh.
James Moody was a saxophonist and a giant of jazz.
His performance of this tune became famous, and it also drew attention when Eddie Jefferson put lyrics to Moody’s improvised phrases.