A gem of a jazz classic that captures the arrival of spring, paired with a heartwarming story

Active club DJKento
Active as a club DJ. Centered on dance music, they mix a wide range of genres including US hip-hop and J-rap, captivating audiences with their unique musical style.
Pop music writer/editorKEI
A style that keeps updating my favorites while loving mainstream and hit songs. I have experience writing articles for outlets like Utaten. Since I discovered music as a student, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. 2000s J-POP and 2010s K-POP were my youth, and I’m also loosely into jazz and R&B. I enjoy good music across genres with a “good is good” mindset. Thanks to my past work environment (and its influence), I listened to a lot of classic rock and kayōkyoku, which may have broadened my tastes. At RAG MUSIC, I mainly cover K-POP. I focus on reviews that emphasize feelings people can relate to, and on editing aligned with local pride and hit potential. Thank you!

With the gentle sunshine of spring, can’t you hear jazz melodies that seep into your heart?

From Nina Simone’s powerful vocals to Bill Evans’s delicate piano touch, here are exquisite jazz numbers that evoke the arrival of spring.

From Saori Yano’s warm tone that accompanies the cherry blossom season to Django Reinhardt’s cheerful melodies, these masterpieces are perfect for the start of a new season.

Along with heartwarming stories, why not find a special song to color your spring?

Gems of Jazz Classics That Herald the Arrival of Spring and Heartwarming Stories (61–70)

Willow Weep For MeDexter Gordon

Dexter Gordon – Willow Weep For Me

Willow Weep For MeDexter Gordon

This is a piece composed by Ann Ronell and dedicated to Gershwin.

Its Japanese title is “Yanagi yo, Naite Okure,” which means “Willow, Please Weep.” In English, a drooping willow is called a “weeping willow,” and across times and cultures, willows seem to carry a somewhat sorrowful, shadowy image.

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Spring Can Really Hang You Up The MostElla Fitzgerald

Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most

Spring Can Really Hang You Up The MostElla Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald is among the most highly acclaimed female jazz vocalists, and she’s extremely popular in Japan as well.

When it comes to spring-themed pieces in her catalog, many people probably think first of “Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most.” While preserving the merits of the original, her uniquely poignant arrangement leaves a strong impression.

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Spring Can Really Hang You Up the MostJane Monheit

Spring Can Really Hang You up the Most

Spring Can Really Hang You Up the MostJane Monheit

Jane Monheit, a jazz vocalist from New York, graduated with top honors from the Manhattan School of Music and has received high acclaim throughout her professional career.

One of her signature songs, Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most, is a spring-themed piece that she released when she was 20 years old.

Despite her young age, she exudes remarkable sensuality—be sure to check it out.

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I Wish You LoveNancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson – I Wish You Love (Capitol Records 1960)

I Wish You LoveNancy Wilson

The original song is the chanson “Que reste-t-il de nos amours” (Japanese title: “Nokosareshi Koi ni wa”), with lyrics by Charles Trenet and music by Léo Chauliac.

The English lyrics are by Albert A.

Beach.

It was used as the theme song for François Truffaut’s 1967 film “Stolen Kisses.”

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It Might As Well Be SpringBrad Mehldau

It Might as Well Be Spring

It Might As Well Be SpringBrad Mehldau

Brad Mehldau, a pianist whose talent was recognized by Jimmy Cobb and Joshua Redman, is known not only as a jazz pianist but also for covering rock songs.

He has covered classic tracks by several famous rock bands, including the Beatles and Radiohead.

His piece themed around spring, It Might As Well Be Spring, is a song from the musical film State Fair, and it gained popularity with its distinctive jazz arrangement.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced a generous selection of exquisite jazz to color the arrival of spring.

These timeless tunes will accompany you gently—whether you’re relaxing in the soft spring sunlight or seeking encouragement for a fresh start.

Why not spend a spring moment that’s yours alone, wrapped in heartwarming melodies? A wonderful encounter with music is sure to make the arrival of spring shine even brighter.