Recommended classic jazz songs for men
There are so many music genres, even when we just say “music lovers.” If you’re the one who’s been listening to the same kind of songs all the time and starting to feel like it’s losing its freshness—this is for you! This time, we’re introducing a collection of classic jazz tracks recommended for men.
A new door is sure to open.
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Jazz classics recommended for men (21–30)
You Don’t Know What Love IsSonny Rollins
Even on Sonny Rollins’s signature album Saxophone Colossus, the most famous track is “St.
Thomas.” From the same album, this time I’d like to introduce a cool, understated number I recommend to men.
“You Don’t Know What Love Is” is a standard; it’s a quiet yet thrilling piece where the saxophone playing feels incredibly satisfying.
Autumn LeavesStan Getz
Known by the title “Autumn Leaves,” this jazz standard was originally a classic French chanson.
There are countless great performances, but this time I’d like to introduce a more subdued rendition by saxophonist Stan Getz.
Black OrpheusWayne Shorter
It is the theme song from the 1959 film Black Orpheus, composed by Brazilian musician Luíz Bonfá.
A bossa nova classic, it is also used as a jazz standard.
The performance I’m introducing here is by tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter, who also played with The Jazz Messengers.
Round MidnightWes Montgomery
A masterful performance of ‘Round Midnight’ by jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery.
This piece is a jazz standard composed by Thelonious Monk.
As you can see in the video, Wes Montgomery is known for his unique playing style of using just his thumb.
Festive MinorGerry Mulligan & Chet Baker
“Festive Minor” is a very bluesy piece that truly exemplifies cool jazz.
It was composed by Gerry Mulligan himself, and there are several recordings beyond this performance.
Among them, I’ll introduce the version performed in collaboration with Chet Baker.
My Favorite ThingsGrant Green
This is a masterful performance by the jazz guitar virtuoso Grant Green, who excelled in a wide range of styles from orthodox jazz to jazz-funk.
John Coltrane’s rendition is also famous and excellent, but Grant Green’s performance is every bit as good.
What A Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong
“What A Wonderful World,” sung by Louis Armstrong, known by the nickname “Satchmo.” He was one of the leading jazz musicians of the 20th century—a trumpeter who was also a great singer.
He is also famous for being the first to introduce scat singing into jazz.