Round MidnightThelonious Monk1rank/position

‘Round Midnight

There may be few songs that suit the word “midnight” as perfectly as this one.

So achingly beautiful, its wistful melody seeps into the heart; this work stands as a towering jazz-ballad masterpiece created by modern jazz giant Thelonious Monk.

In the world of its lyrics, it depicts an inescapable loneliness and yearning over lost love.

Monk’s characteristically unexpected harmonies seem to deepen that helpless emotion even further.

You can hear Monk’s own 1947 recording on the album “Genius of Modern Music Vol.

1,” and Miles Davis also featured it on his classic “’Round About Midnight.” It’s also known for the film of the same name released in 1986.

A perfect song for a long autumn night when you want to drift into your thoughts.

Ruby, My DearThelonious Monk2rank/position

Thelonious Monk Quartet – Ruby, My Dear

According to the protagonist, Dai Miyamoto, the person he calls a “genius” is the brilliant pianist Thelonious Monk, renowned both for his unique, improvisation-driven style and for composing standards that remain beloved today.

The work that Dai is presumably listening to in the story is Thelonious Monk with John Coltrane, a collaboration between Monk and his protégé of sorts, the later charismatic saxophonist John Coltrane.

Ruby, My Dear is the celebrated track that opens the album—a romantic ballad composed by Monk himself around 1945.

You can also hear this piece on Monk’s solo piano album Solo Monk, so I highly recommend comparing the two recordings.

Evrything Happens to meThelonious Monk3rank/position

Thelonious Monk – Everything Happens to Me

This is a track from the album “Solomonck.” It appeared in every episode of the NHK drama “Plant Guy” as an in-show piece, so many of you may find it familiar.

The relaxed warmth of this song resonates with the drama, and it makes me think the staff are people who listen closely to music.

At times I sense a bold, powerful image in his playing, but isn’t it actually very well crafted? I don’t think looseness arises without intention.

Blue MonkThelonious Monk4rank/position

Thelonious Monk – Blue Monk: Easy Piano Arrangement

The jazz master Thelonious Monk’s 1954 composition “Blue Monk” has secured its place as a standard in the jazz world.

Its appeal lies in Monk’s distinctive rhythmic, chromatic melody; while it adopts the 12-bar blues form, it skillfully fuses jazz tradition and innovation through its unique harmony and rhythm.

In 1973, Abbey Lincoln added lyrics, giving “Blue Monk” an even deeper dimension.

The lyrics reflect themes of loneliness, introspection, and inner conflict, conveying a message about the blues sensibility in jazz and the act of overcoming struggle.

For beginners, “Blue Monk” is an excellent introduction to jazz.

Technically accessible, it’s ideal for learning the fundamental forms and expressive richness of jazz, and it offers a valuable opportunity to experience Monk’s musical vision.

Lulu’s Back In TownThelonious Monk5rank/position

Lulu’s Back In Town – Thelonious Monk

This is a track from the 1964 album “It’s Monk’s Time” by Thelonious Monk, a jazz pianist from North Carolina, USA.

Thanks to his distinctive improvisation, even standards that might otherwise turn out polished bear his unmistakable stamp.

He is a giant of the jazz world, on par with Miles Davis and John Coltrane.