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.
- [2026] A Collection of Classic Japanese Ballads with a Jazz Flavor
- Classic swing jazz tunes. Recommended popular songs.
- Introduction! A collection of recommended masterpieces and standard numbers for jazz beginners
- [2026] Discover Today's Jazz! A Roundup of the Latest Spotlight and Popular Tracks
- [Western Jazz] A Special Feature on Standard Numbers You’ve Heard at Least Once
- The Profound Allure of the Saxophone: Iconic Songs Featuring Saxophone [2026]
- Today's Jazz: Tunes for today! A selection of timeless classics and contemporary jazz
- 【2026】A Collection of Masterpieces by Overseas Jazz Bands
- Great for karaoke too! Jazz classics you’ll want to sing at least once
- 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 (51–60)
Someday My Prince Will ComeMiles Davis57rank/position
This is the song “Someday My Prince Will Come,” performed by trumpet player Miles Davis.
Some people might think of the trumpet as a loud instrument, but it can also produce wonderfully romantic tones.
Pay attention to the richly atmospheric main melody, as well as the solos packed with dazzling virtuosity!
Autumn LeavesNat King Cole58rank/position
The legendary jazz vocalist, Nat King Cole.
Even among the many jazz singers, he stands out with an exceptionally warm voice and is beloved by professional musicians as well.
For those well-versed in music, choosing Nat King Cole over Frank Sinatra is a common move, right? (laughs) His “Autumn Leaves” is one of his signature songs, and his warm, rich tone matches perfectly with the title “Autumn Leaves.”
Lonely WomanOrnette Coleman59rank/position
Ornette Coleman, the genius of the jazz alto saxophone.
One of his most iconic—and arguably avant-garde—works is this album released in 1959.
Often cited as a source of free jazz, this new kind of album expanded the possibilities of jazz and music itself by embracing free expression without chordal instruments or conventional structures.
This kind of music is great, too.
God Rest Ye Merry, GentlemenOscar Peterson60rank/position
This piece is an old English Christmas carol published in the 18th century.
It’s quite famous, so many of you have probably heard it.
In Japan, the title is translated as “Yo no Hito Wasuruna.” Oscar Peterson performs a swinging jazz arrangement of this well-known tune.
The way Oscar Peterson transforms any Christmas song as if it were his own is truly captivating.
It’s also interesting to compare his version with the original as performed in churches.
Ranking of Popular Jazz Songs (61–70)
Infant EyesWayne Shorter61rank/position
A fantastical ballad that remains beloved by many as one of Wayne Shorter’s signature works.
Dedicated to his beloved daughter, the piece centers on a theme of deep, warm affection, as if gazing into her pure eyes.
Why not listen to its mysterious, beautiful melody while picturing a fog-wreathed landscape and the flowers blooming within it? This track appears on the classic album Speak No Evil, released in June 1966.
Although it had no commercial tie-ins, the fact that it has been covered by many musicians in later years speaks to its timeless appeal.
It is a masterpiece perfectly suited for moments when you want to immerse yourself in the lyrical world of jazz or savor music on a quiet night.
A Night in TunisiaArt Blakey & The Jazz Messengers62rank/position
A masterpiece that captures the exotic atmosphere of North Africa through innovative jazz rhythms and harmonies.
In August 1960, Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers delivered a performance that opened up new musical territory with a bold fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and bebop.
Anchored by powerful drumming, the sensual melodic lines woven by Lee Morgan’s trumpet and Wayne Shorter’s saxophone shine throughout.
Featured on the classic album “A Night in Tunisia,” this piece captivates with its interplay of exotic ambience and thrilling improvisation.
Perfect for a calm spring evening when you want to relax into the music and feel a breeze from distant lands.
Someday My Prince Will ComeBill Evans63rank/position
Bill Evans, a composer who achieved worldwide popularity with jazz that incorporated the musicality of Impressionism, such as Debussy and Ravel.
For anyone who has dabbled even a little in jazz, he’s a familiar name.
This piece, “Someday My Prince Will Come,” is used as an insert song in Disney’s film Snow White, and is known in Japan by the title “Itsuka Ōjisama ga.” While the original has a fantastical atmosphere, this rendition stands out for its jazzy, warm, and cheerful mood.