Recommended classic jazz songs for men

All of MeFrank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra All of Me

Composed in 1931, “All of Me” is a song famous as a jazz standard.

Here’s the version by Frank Sinatra, a quintessential male jazz vocalist.

As you’d expect from Frank Sinatra, its light yet suave style is simply irresistible!

Night LightsGerry Mulligan

Gerry Mulligan – Night Lights

This is “Night Lights,” a signature work by Gerry Mulligan, a central figure of West Coast jazz and a baritone saxophonist—something rare in the jazz world.

In this piece, he doesn’t play the sax; he plays the piano.

It’s a sophisticated, cool track that perfectly suits urban neon nights.

Maiden VoyageHerbie Hancock

Herbie Hancock – Maiden Voyage

“Maiden Voyage” is a piece composed by Herbie Hancock himself.

Even among Hancock’s often complex works, this one is simple and impactful.

While it’s a calm composition, the way it handles dynamics is excellent, making it a pleasure to listen to.

My Funny Valentinejim hall

Jim Hall “My Funny Valentine”

“My Funny Valentine” performed by the master jazz guitarist Jim Hall.

The song is famous for Miles Davis’s rendition, but it’s a standard composed in 1937.

This video shows a live performance from 2009.

He was 79 at the time, and his guitar playing was as strong as ever—hard to believe his age.

Stolen MomentsOliver Nelson

Oliver Nelson Septet – Stolen Moments

Stolen Moments is a standard composed by Oliver Nelson himself, a saxophonist and clarinetist.

Among jazz tunes, it features simple harmony and a delicate touch, preserving the quintessential jazz mood.

Cool Struttin’Sonny Clark

Sonny Clark – Cool Struttin’

This is Cool Struttin’, a signature piece by jazz pianist Sonny Clark, who was said to be more popular in Japan than in his home country, the United States.

It was reportedly played frequently in Japanese jazz cafés at the time, and the label owner was puzzled by the flood of orders coming from Japan.

You Don’t Know What Love IsSonny Rollins

You don’t know what love is – Sonny Rollins

Even on Sonny Rollins’s signature album Saxophone Colossus, the most famous track is “St.

Thomas.” From the same album, this time I’d like to introduce a cool, understated number I recommend to men.

“You Don’t Know What Love Is” is a standard; it’s a quiet yet thrilling piece where the saxophone playing feels incredibly satisfying.