Famous Western jazz classics. Recommended popular songs.

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

Jazz has a longer history than rock or pop and encompasses many subgenres, so it’s no surprise that many people feel it’s a bit intimidating to get into.

Some may have a mental block because of the image they have of jazz, but in fact, there are countless famous jazz tunes you’ve probably heard somewhere—whether as timeless standards loved across generations, or as songs used in commercials and film scores.

In this article, we’ve gathered recommended classics and popular tracks that even jazz beginners can enjoy.

Focusing on vintage jazz numbers while mixing in standout tracks from contemporary jazz artists who’ve been attracting attention in recent years, we present a richly varied selection.

Classic jazz songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (91–100)

Blue MonkThelonious Monk

Blue Monk, Thelonius Monk

Blue MonkThelonious Monk

This is a blues progression piece composed by the uniquely individual pianist Thelonious Monk, and it’s often played at jam sessions.

The theme, which blends humor and the avant-garde, unmistakably feels like one of his creations.

In jazz, the thematic phrases often influence the subsequent solo sections, so that’s another key point to listen for.

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Autumn In New YorkBillie Holiday

Billie Holiday – Autumn in New York

Autumn In New YorkBillie Holiday

One of the quintessential songs people feel like listening to in autumn is “Autumn Leaves,” but when it comes to hidden gems about the season, some of you might be reminded of this song as well.

Composed by Vernon Duke in 1934, it was also used in the film of the same title released in 2000.

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Classic Western jazz masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks (101–110)

TenderlySara Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan – Tenderly (Live from Sweden) Mercury Records 1958

TenderlySara Vaughan

When it comes to jazz standards, most are songs originally used in musicals or films, but this piece was composed from the outset as a popular song and became a hit when a young Sarah Vaughan sang it.

The music was written by Walter Gross, with lyrics by Jack Lawrence.

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AlfieSonny Rollins

Sonny Rollins “Alfie”

AlfieSonny Rollins

Sonny Rollins is still an active giant in the jazz world.

He has many famous tunes, but Alfie became popular as the theme song for a British film.

With its very memorable melody, it’s a classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.

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In conclusion

Many famous and popular songs born throughout jazz history have become standards and are often covered across genres, so many of you have probably come across tunes you recognize.

It’s also recommended to check out tracks by popular contemporary jazz artists and enjoy experiencing the evolution of jazz as you listen!