[2026] Recommended Jazz Tracks to Enjoy in Summer: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics

Brazilian SuiteMICHEL PETRUCCIANI

Michel Petrucciani – Brazilian Suite

Michel Petrucciani, a jazz pianist from France, is hailed as the greatest jazz pianist in his country, and his distinctive phrasing influenced by Bill Evans continues to captivate many fans.

Among his works, “Brazilian Suite,” which closes the 1988 album Michel Plays Petrucciani, is especially striking for its intriguingly unusual feel that literally incorporates elements of Brazilian folk music.

The groovy drumming by Al Foster and the exquisite harmony with Michel’s piano are simply irresistible!

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Yuuki

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MoveMiles Davis

Move

When it comes to jazz you want to listen to in summer, broadly speaking, there are two types: cool performances that make you feel refreshed, and hot performances that let you enjoy the heat to the fullest.

This track is clearly the latter.

Using the so-called ultrafast rhythm changes progression, it’s a tune that fires up both the musicians playing it and the audience listening.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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There’s a Boat That’s Leaving Soon for New YorkMiles Davis

There’s a Boat That’s Leaving Soon for New York (Remastered)

This song, performed in the 1935 production of Porgy and Bess, may not be as famous as the theme song Summertime, but its lively, hopeful character seems perfect for summer.

The lyrics are about a ship departing for New York—inviting someone to come along to New York and enjoy a fun life together.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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LoveNatalie Cole

Natalie Cole- LOVE

It’s a jazz classic by Natalie Cole, where her commanding vocal sensibility and a beautifully luxurious mood wrap around you, making for a smooth and intimate listen.

With its moody finish, this urban piece is also a perfect recommendation for summer.

Carry Me (ft Seun Kuti)Nubiyan Twist

Nubiyan Twist – Carry Me ft Seun Kuti

Let me introduce a perfect track to cool down the hot summer! Featured on the 2024 new album “Find Your Flame” by Nubiyan Twist, the UK’s proudly multinational jazz collective, this supreme number was born from a collaboration with Afrobeat master Seun Kuti.

Sparked by a chance encounter at Glastonbury, the collaboration blends moving lyrics about the hardships and sacrifices of parents with an energetic sound.

Distilling their musical identity where Afrobeat, soul, and jazz intersect, this song is perfect for summer drives or relaxing by the beach.

Give it a listen!

IyawoOmar Sosa

Omar Sosa – Iyawo

Omar Sosa, a native of Camagüey, Cuba, is celebrated as a brilliant pianist.

While he is often discussed in the context of Latin jazz due to his Cuban roots, his genre-defying approach and music that embraces multiple styles have consistently earned high acclaim.

The song Iyawo, introduced here, is a gem from his 2004 album Mulatos.

Its beautiful melody showcases Sosa’s rich lyricism, while the percussion—simple yet imbued with a Latin flavor—and the bass line’s exquisite phrasing feel absolutely sublime.

I also recommend enjoying a luxurious moment on a midsummer night with this track as your background music.

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KOH-1

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Remind MePATRICE RUSHEN

PATRICE RUSHEN REMIND ME

A jazz classic by Patrice Rushen, where a moody yet universally beautiful melodic sensibility pairs perfectly with the rich character of the Rhodes piano to create a floating feel.

Its catchy flavor is renowned as a classic, and it carries a refreshing quality that makes it perfect for summer listening.