My Favorite ThingsJohn Coltrane1rank/position

My Favorite Things – John Coltrane [FULL VERSION] HQ

People say Rodgers & Hammerstein have few famous songs.

That’s true, but there is one standard that became an enormous hit: “My Favorite Things.” It’s used frequently in Japanese commercials, so you’ve probably heard it at least once even before knowing BLUE GIANT.

There are major differences in the arrangement between the original Rodgers & Hammerstein version and the modern standard version of “My Favorite Things,” so if you want to enjoy this work more deeply, be sure to listen to both and compare.

A Love Supreme, Pt. I – AcknowledgementJohn Coltrane2rank/position

A Love Supreme, Pt. I – Acknowledgement

This track is performed with the mature, seductive groove of the legendary John Coltrane, a saxophonist who represents America and whose name you may have heard even if you’re not a jazz fan.

It is a masterpiece of complex and artistic ensemble work that expresses the depth of jazz and the freedom inherent in music.

In a Sentimental MoodDuke Ellington & John Coltrane3rank/position

In a Sentimental Mood

A dream collaboration by two giants of the jazz world: pianist Duke Ellington and saxophonist John Coltrane.

This work carries a deeply romantic theme, portraying the happiness of being embraced by a loved one and how that warmth heals past loneliness.

Ellington’s sophisticated piano melts beautifully into Coltrane’s astonishingly gentle and mellifluous tenor saxophone—truly exquisite.

This version was recorded in September 1962 for the historic masterpiece “Duke Ellington & John Coltrane,” and it also appeared on the soundtrack of the 2005 film “Prime.” It’s a piece perfectly crafted for an autumn night of reflection, ideal for listening in a slightly sentimental mood.

Blue TrainJohn Coltrane4rank/position

Blue Train (Remastered 2003/Rudy Van Gelder Edition)

“Blue Train,” which also became the title of John Coltrane’s 1957 album, is a celebrated classic in Blue Note’s popular 1500 series and a track where you can truly experience the essence of jazz.

Centered on the groove laid down by bassist Paul Chambers and drummer Philly Joe Jones—who played with Coltrane in the Miles Davis band—the superb interplay between the horns of John Coltrane and Lee Morgan is a major highlight.

CountdownJohn Coltrane5rank/position

John Coltrane – Countdown

Known as a jazz standard, this piece is characterized by its complex chord progression and fast tempo.

Included on the album “Giant Steps,” released in May 1960, it had a profound impact on the jazz world.

Showcasing John Coltrane’s exceptional improvisational skills to the fullest, the work remains a staple of the jazz repertoire and is beloved by many musicians today.

It is also an important work for students studying jazz theory and improvisation.

Highly recommended for those interested in jazz or looking to explore new music, this track offers a full taste of the tenor saxophone’s appeal and provides a compelling entry point into the world of jazz.

Giant StepsJohn Coltrane6rank/position

John Coltrane – Giant Steps (2020 Remaster) [Official Audio]

Known as a milestone of modern jazz, this piece is characterized by its complex harmonies and rapidly shifting chord progressions.

It was included on the 1960 Atlantic Records album “Giant Steps,” and it was the first project John Coltrane produced as a leader after signing with the label.

Drawing on Coltrane’s 1957 collaboration with Thelonious Monk, the piece broke new ground in jazz and stands as an innovative work.

It’s highly recommended for those deeply interested in jazz history and for musicians seeking a technical challenge.

Moment’s NoticeJohn Coltrane7rank/position

John Coltrane – Moment’s Notice

I got asked about my favorite music genre, got overly excited and started passionately explaining, only to have the other person back away… If you’re a music lover, that’s a pretty relatable experience, right? In BLUE GIANT, when the protagonist Dai Miyamoto is told by a coworker at his gas station job, “Jazz is difficult music, isn’t it?” he pushes back.

But when the coworker responds, “Then sing something famous,” Dai hums John Coltrane’s classic Moment’s Notice.

Coltrane—one of the true giants of jazz and a historic saxophonist—released the masterpiece Blue Train in 1957, and Moment’s Notice is included on that album, composed by Coltrane himself.

It’s a brisk, up-tempo number with very clear, memorable lines—including the main riff—so even jazz beginners can easily appreciate how cool the saxophone sounds.

Dai hums the famous intro phrase, but unfortunately gets dismissed with a “Don’t get it.” By the way, this piece appears in other scenes in the original manga as well, so if you’re interested, definitely check out the source material!