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

More More AmorWes Montgomery

More More Amor

Wes Montgomery is such a famous guitarist that anyone who dabbles in jazz guitar is sure to know his name.

He’s especially well known for his frequent use of the octave technique, in which he layers a note an octave above the original.

Among his works, “More More Amor” is a classic that’s been widely covered not only by guitarists but also by artists like Akiko Yano.

The melodious phrases that flow from his beautiful, free-roaming fingerwork across the fretboard are very accessible, making this a great recommendation for jazz beginners.

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Yuuki

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CaravanUehara Hiromi

Hiromi Uehara – Caravan

Composed by Duke Ellington in 1937, it was originally an instrumental piece.

Irving Mills of the Ellington Orchestra later added lyrics.

The song is also known for being used in films such as Chocolat and Ocean’s Thirteen.

Surf RideArt Pepper

Surf Ride

An album cover featuring a woman in a swimsuit enjoying surfing—now that’s full-on summer! Today I’d like to introduce the title track from Surf Ride, the first leader album released in 1956 by Art Pepper, a saxophonist who represents the West Coast jazz scene and enjoys great popularity here in Japan.

It’s an original number by Pepper, and its snappy rhythm and stylish alto sax tone have a cooling effect that seems to take the edge off the midsummer heat, creating an irresistible mood for a perfect night.

Although he himself fit the archetype of the self-destructive jazz musician, the sound packed into this track conveys to listeners the pure joy of jazz.

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KOH-1

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Mas Que NadaAl Jarreau

AL JARREAU – Mas Que Nada – Jazz (Smooth)

This song was performed by the group Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66, which Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes formed in 1966 with two female vocalists, and it became a worldwide hit.

The original version of the song was the 1963 hit of the same name by Jorge Ben.

Sweet Love Of MineJackie Mclean

Sweet Love Of Mine (Remastered 2006/Rudy Van Gelder Edition)

Trumpeter Woody Shaw, who gained popularity for his skillful performances.

He may not be widely known, but the masterpieces he left behind are still cherished by devoted fans today.

One of his classics is “Sweet Love of Mine.” It’s a passionate melody that also conveys a sense of melancholy and darkness.

Picture a summer midnight: sipping a gimlet, playing this tune, and reading a hard-boiled novel.

It’s the perfect song for that kind of scene.

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Ryo

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When You’re SmilingMichael Bublé

Michael Bublé – When You’re Smiling [Official Audio]

When people think of jazz standards, many probably picture classic singers like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole.

For those folks, I recommend Michael Bublé’s rendition of “When You’re Smiling.” It’s a piece by one of the most famous contemporary interpreters of jazz standards, Michael Bublé, and it’s wrapped in an exceptionally cheerful and glamorous melody.

Its brightness perfectly suits the summer vibe, so be sure to give it a listen.

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Ryo

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Agua De BeberSophie Milman

Sophie Milman – Agua De Beber

This is a bossa nova piece released by Antônio Carlos Jobim in 1961, known in Japanese as “Oishii Mizu” (“Delicious Water”).

Jobim’s friend, the diplomat Vinicius de Moraes, wrote the original Portuguese lyrics.

A few years later, English lyrics by Norman Gimbel were created, and the Sérgio Mendes version became a big hit.