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

SummertimeElla Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong

Summertime

When it comes to jazz that evokes summer, many people probably think first of Summertime.

It’s a classic standard in jazz, but in fact… the piece didn’t start out as jazz—it was originally an opera aria.

Released in 1935 as an aria from the opera Porgy and Bess, it has been covered across a wide range of genres, including jazz, rock, and R&B.

The version by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong is especially striking for its arrangement that conjures the quiet depths of a midsummer night.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

My Baby Just Cares For MeNina Simone

nina simone – my baby just cares for me

A jazz classic by Nina Simone, whose artistry—imbued with a smoky, dubby sensibility—delivers a refined and sophisticated listening experience.

Its pleasant vibe makes it a great pick for summer, perfect for lifting your spirits.

A Summer AfternoonStan Getz

A Summer Afternoon

Stan Getz, who was active for many decades starting in the 1940s and beloved as a master of the tenor saxophone.

Many jazz fans have been captivated by his assured technique and performances that showcase his urban coolness and distinctive lyricism.

Here’s a track from his 1962 album Focus—recorded in 1961 in collaboration with arranger Eddie Sauter.

Centered on the saxophone’s rich timbre, it moves from a sparsely scored first half to a later development wrapped in gorgeous strings—truly superb.

Listening to such a refined and beautiful piece on a summer afternoon, just as the title suggests, would be absolutely perfect!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

Begin the BeguineJo Stafford

Jo Stafford – Begin the Beguine

It was composed by Cole Porter for the 1935 musical Jubilee.

At the time, a dance music from Martinique in the Caribbean called the beguine was popular in France.

While staying at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, Porter is said to have seen it and improvised this piece.

A Night In TunisiaDizzy Gillespie

A Night In Tunisia

A modern jazz standard known in Japan under the title “A Night in Tunisia.” Composed in 1942 by trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie in collaboration with pianist Frank Paparelli, the piece features a distinctive, exotic-sounding theme and memorable solo passages for each instrument.

Shortly after its composition, lyrics unrelated to “Tunisia” were added under the title “Interlude,” but later, Jon Hendricks—also a singer—wrote lyrics aligned with the original title.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

HATSUMI

Report a problem

South Of The BorderFrank Sinatra

South Of The Border (Remastered)

There are many different situations that come to mind when we talk about summer.

This piece, “South Of The Border,” is a sparkling work that’s perfect as background music for a daytime drive or an elegant dinner.

Composed in 1939, it features a lively melody that depicts a trip to Mexico, and today it’s cherished as a classic summer jazz standard.

It has been covered by various jazz singers, but this time we’ve picked the especially popular version by Frank Sinatra.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

But BeautifulCarmen McRae

Carmen McRae / But Beautiful

This jazz classic by Carmen McRae—an artist garnering attention for her refined sensibility, rich vocals, and evocative melancholy—stands out for its luxurious texture and versatility that complements any groove.

It’s a perfect pick for the summer season.