Recommended classic jazz songs for men

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.

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.

Festive MinorGerry Mulligan & Chet Baker

Festive Minor

“Festive Minor” is a very bluesy piece that truly exemplifies cool jazz.

It was composed by Gerry Mulligan himself, and there are several recordings beyond this performance.

Among them, I’ll introduce the version performed in collaboration with Chet Baker.

My Favorite ThingsGrant Green

My Favorite Things

This is a masterful performance by the jazz guitar virtuoso Grant Green, who excelled in a wide range of styles from orthodox jazz to jazz-funk.

John Coltrane’s rendition is also famous and excellent, but Grant Green’s performance is every bit as good.