Ranking of Popular Jazz Songs
Jazz is a genre of music born in America in the 19th century.
Blending traditional African music with Western music, jazz captivates with its distinctive groove and passionate performances rooted in Black music.
From there, it has influenced a wide range of musical styles, and today its spirit can be felt in countless settings.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic jazz tunes in a ranked list.
In Japan, jazz is often considered “grown-up music,” but I hope the songs featured here inspire many people to fall in love with jazz.
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- 【2026】A Collection of Masterpieces by Overseas Jazz Bands
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- Jazz commercial songs. Popular commercial songs.
- The Royal Road of Jazz: Classic modern jazz masterpieces. Popular tracks you should listen to at least once.
- [Autumn Jazz] Classic and Popular Jazz Songs to Enjoy in the Fall
- Jacques Ibert Popular Song Ranking [2026]
Ranking of Popular Jazz Songs (1–10)
My Funny ValentineChet Baker8rank/position
The gemlike ballad by Chet Baker—affectionately known as the “Prince of Cool”—is an extraordinarily famous work and a true jazz classic.
Its lyrics portray a paradoxical kind of love that cherishes everything about a slightly unusual lover—their looks and quirks alike—and this worldview harmonizes beautifully with his wistful, delicate singing voice.
The piece appears on his landmark 1954 album “Chet Baker Sings,” the first to fully capture his vocals.
It was later featured on the soundtrack of the film “Sharky’s Machine.” This is a deeply affecting performance, perfect for a quiet night when you want to immerse yourself in music alone.
My Favorite ThingsJohn Coltrane9rank/position
People say Rodgers & Hammerstein have few famous songs.
That’s true, but there is one standard that became an enormous hit: “My Favorite Things.” It’s used frequently in Japanese commercials, so you’ve probably heard it at least once even before knowing BLUE GIANT.
There are major differences in the arrangement between the original Rodgers & Hammerstein version and the modern standard version of “My Favorite Things,” so if you want to enjoy this work more deeply, be sure to listen to both and compare.
You’d Be So Nice To Come Home ToHelen Merrill10rank/position
Here’s a song composed by the master Cole Porter as an insert song for a film released in 1942.
It’s a quintessential winter song about how wonderful it would be if you were waiting for me in front of the fireplace on a cold winter’s day.
It’s a popular jazz standard performed by many artists.
In Japan, the version sung by Helen Merrill was even used in a commercial, wasn’t it? It’s the kind of song you can’t help humming on your way home from work to a warm house where someone is waiting for you.
Jazz Popular Song Rankings (11–20)
St. ThomasSonny Rollins11rank/position
A captivating piece born from the fusion of calypso rhythms and jazz.
Based on a lullaby that Sonny Rollins’s mother sang to him in his childhood, this tune beautifully blends the cheerful atmosphere of the Caribbean with the freedom of improvisation.
Recorded on June 22, 1956, in New Jersey, it was included on the album “Saxophone Colossus” and secured its place as a jazz standard.
Its light, catchy melody and powerful saxophone tone lift listeners’ spirits and set their hearts dancing.
Perfect for relieving stress, refreshing your mood, or rediscovering the charm of jazz.
Moonlight SerenadeGLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA12rank/position
Composed in 1939 by trombonist Glenn Miller, this piece is well known as his band’s theme song.
It’s also popular in Japan and has been used in many commercials.
There are lyrics as well, and it is often performed in a sung version.
Sing Sing SingBenny Goodman13rank/position
Composed in 1936 by trumpeter Louis Prima, affectionately known as the “King of the Swingers,” the classic Sing, Sing, Sing is celebrated as a landmark of swing jazz and continues to be remade today, including through electro swing.
This time, we’re spotlighting the version by Benny Goodman, one of America’s most iconic jazz clarinetists.
It’s a recommended piece for anyone looking to delve deeper into swing jazz.
Cleopatra’s DreamBud Powell14rank/position
Cleopatra’s Dream, released in 1959 by jazz pianist Bud Powell.
In Japan, it’s known by the title “Kureopatora no Yume,” and its mysterious atmosphere and sheer intensity are irresistible! It’s performed in C-flat major, a key with seven flats, and the main phrase enters on the off-beat of the eighth note, giving it a distinctive rhythm.
The melody unfolds with a sensibility most people would never think of, and it becomes addictively compelling as you listen! This piece is especially popular in Japan.
Next time you step into a jazz café, why not perk up your ears to see if it’s playing?
