Recommended classic jazz songs for men

Speak LowWalter Bishop Jr.

Speak Low

Walter Bishop Jr.

was a jazz pianist who also wore the hats of music teacher and music theorist, and he even wrote papers on improvisation.

This piece, “Speak Low,” is a standard number, but it has also become one of his signature tunes.

Autumn LeavesStan Getz

Stan Getz (Autumn Leaves)

Known by the title “Autumn Leaves,” this jazz standard was originally a classic French chanson.

There are countless great performances, but this time I’d like to introduce a more subdued rendition by saxophonist Stan Getz.

Black OrpheusWayne Shorter

Black Orpheus

It is the theme song from the 1959 film Black Orpheus, composed by Brazilian musician Luíz Bonfá.

A bossa nova classic, it is also used as a jazz standard.

The performance I’m introducing here is by tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter, who also played with The Jazz Messengers.

Round MidnightWes Montgomery

Wes Montgomery – Round Midnight

A masterful performance of ‘Round Midnight’ by jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery.

This piece is a jazz standard composed by Thelonious Monk.

As you can see in the video, Wes Montgomery is known for his unique playing style of using just his thumb.

Moanin’Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers

Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers – Moanin’

This is “Moanin’,” the 1958 signature work by the Jazz Messengers led by jazz drummer Art Blakey.

The intro, influenced by gospel-style call and response, is striking—and many listeners will recognize it.

It’s often cited as a quintessential example of the “funky jazz” genre.

All The Things You AreCharlie Parker

Charlie Parker – All the things you are

This is a famous performance by alto saxophonist Charlie Parker, who, together with trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, helped create bebop—the prototype of modern jazz.

The performance is restrained yet thrilling, drawing you in.

Blue MoonMel Tormé

Mel Tormé-Blue Moon

A serene and graceful melody, shining like the moon in a deep night sky, seeps into the heart.

Mel Tormé, the American master affectionately known as “The Velvet Fog” for his luscious baritone voice, delivers it superbly.

Released by Capitol Records in April 1949, this work became a major hit, reaching No.

20 on the U.S.

charts.

Tormé brings warmth and emotional depth to a romantic story of a lonely protagonist who finds love through a miraculous encounter.

The arrangement deftly weaves in jazz elements, and his storytelling-like expressiveness is breathtaking.

Featured as well in MGM’s 1948 film Words and Music, it’s a gem of a ballad for adults—perfect for a quiet night with a glass in hand.