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

Night and DayCole Porter

Night And Day – Cole Porter

Fred Astaire sang it in the 1932 musical The Gay Divorce.

It is said that Cole Porter composed it to repeat with modulations within a deliberately narrow vocal range, taking into account Astaire singing while dancing.

The song also became the theme for Porter’s 1946 biopic, Night and Day.

Stella By StarlightVictor Young

Victor Young – STELLA BY STARLIGHT

Stella by Starlight is a standard number that I’m drawn to every summer when the night sky is beautiful.

The renowned composer Victor Young wrote it for the 1944 horror film The Uninvited.

It’s astonishing how beautiful and majestic the melody is—so much so that you’d hardly believe it comes from a horror movie.

Even today, it may be one of the most frequently performed and recorded pieces by jazz artists and enthusiasts alike.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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.

The Summer KnowsArt Pepper

The Summer Knows ART PEPPER

It is the theme song from the 1971 American film “Summer of ’42” (released in Japan as “Omoide no Natsu”).

The music was composed by Michel Legrand, and at that time it had no lyrics.

Later, lyrics were added by the Bergman couple, and it became a standard as a vocal song as well.

Bli BlipNew York Voices

Bli Blip

Here’s a track by New York Voices, a five-member mixed-gender vocal group that turns scat sounds into a song.

Built on the often-played rhythm changes progression, it’s a piece that highlights each member’s ad-lib scat technique.

Their urbane, sophisticated, and beautiful harmonies feel like a cool breeze threading through the sweltering canyons of New York’s skyscrapers—truly refreshing.

They might be one of the must-listen vocal groups for summer.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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

When The Morning ComesThe Moments

The Moments – When The Morning Comes

A classic jazz piece by Moments, an act that has garnered tremendous support for their artistry in captivatingly evoking the deep textures of the oldies.

With a familiar, easy-to-listen flavor, it offers a comfortable vibe that’s perfect for summer and lifts your spirits.