Ranking of Popular Jazz Songs

FIRST NOTEUehara Hiromi50rank/position

FIRST NOTE

This piece performed by the trio JASS in the film BLUE GIANT is a masterpiece with a dynamic structure that weaves together passionate saxophone, powerful drums, and Hiromi Uehara’s outstanding piano performance over a substantial runtime of about 7 minutes and 50 seconds.

While rooted in jazz, it fully showcases Uehara’s signature musicality through a fusion of diverse genres such as classical, rock, and fusion, delivering expressive power that deeply moves listeners even without lyrics.

Included on the film’s original soundtrack released in February 2023, it stands out as one of the most striking works among the 30-plus new compositions Uehara wrote for the project.

It’s great as background music for studying or working, and is also recommended for those who want to feel the depth of jazz or immerse themselves in the film’s world.

Work SongCannonball Adderley Quintet51rank/position

Work Song (Remastered 2000)

Composed by Nat Adderley and released in 1960, this piece may be familiar to many in Japan, as it was also used in a commercial for an energy drink.

In terms of jazz subgenres, it is classified as funky jazz, and lyrics were later added.

The lyrics depict a prisoner lamenting the hardships of a severe prison sentence.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Fly Me To The MoonBart Howard52rank/position

"Fly Me To The Moon" Jazz Arrangement [How to Play Piano—Absolutely Playable Even for Beginners] Level ☆☆

Known as a jazz standard, Fly Me To The Moon is a classic that continues to be performed in a variety of arrangements, from Frank Sinatra’s vocal version to instrumental covers by jazz artists.

It was also used as the ending theme for Neon Genesis Evangelion, so many people first discovered the song through Eva.

The chord progression itself isn’t particularly complex and is largely repetitive, making it a good choice for beginners.

If you actually try playing the melody and chords on the piano, you’ll notice how stylish and sophisticated it sounds.

The secret to that stylish feel lies in the sound of seventh chords used throughout the piece.

Even just sticking to the basics—melody in the right hand and chords in the left—lets you enjoy that chic vibe.

So if you’re a beginner who wants to play something stylish on the piano or try a jazz-like tune, definitely give it a shot!

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KOH-1

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I Never Knew (I Could Love Anybody Like I’m Loving You)Benny Goodman53rank/position

I Never Knew I Could Love Anybody (Like I m Loving You)

Here is a piece performed by the Benny Goodman Orchestra, led by clarinetist Benny Goodman—renowned as a leading figure of swing jazz and known for “Sing, Sing, Sing.” It was originally a song with lyrics, and Judy Garland’s version is also famous, so you might enjoy comparing the two.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Take the “A” TrainBilly Strayhorn54rank/position

Duke Ellington and His Famous Orchestra – Take the “A” Train (Audio)

Set in the New York City subway, this piece has continued to be loved worldwide as a jazz standard.

Composed by Billy Strayhorn in 1939 and recorded by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in February 1941, it became the ensemble’s signature theme.

There’s also a well-known anecdote that the title came from a note showing directions to Ellington’s home.

In Japan, it was featured in the film “Swing Girls,” and its lively swing feel has captivated many listeners.

When you take on performing it, it’s important to have a firm grasp of the basic AABA form.

Start by playing the simple melody as if you’re singing it, and try to feel the distinctive rhythms of jazz.

In the MoodGlenn Miller55rank/position

In the Mood

Glenn Miller, an artist known as a giant of swing jazz, passed away at the young age of 40, yet he released numerous classics during his short career.

The piece “In the Mood,” composed by Joe Garland, gained worldwide popularity through Glenn Miller’s performance.

For those who love classic swing jazz, this is an irresistible track.

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Ryo

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Maiden VoyageHerbie Hancock56rank/position

Herbie Hancock – Maiden Voyage

Also known in Japan by the title “Shojo Kōkai,” Maiden Voyage is the title track of the 1965 album of the same name by Herbie Hancock—an artist whose ideas and talent extend beyond standard jazz, who has produced many innovative works and compositions, and who continues to perform actively even in the 2020s well into his eighties.

It is a masterpiece that stands in the history of jazz and remains a beloved standard number today, and in the story it is the memorable piece for which Dai Miyamoto earned his first fee for his own performance.

The fact that he expressed this piece using only a single saxophone is remarkable in itself—one can’t help but wonder what that performance was like.

Why not listen to the original track and imagine it?

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KOH-1

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