A classic jazz ballad from Western music. A world-famous masterpiece and popular song.

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!

With the spread of social media in recent years, even younger generations now have more opportunities to encounter jazz.

As people explore jazz, many of you may find yourselves drawn to sweet, slow-tempo jazz.

With that in mind, we’ve picked out a selection of classic jazz ballads.

From hidden gems known to aficionados to standard jazz tunes everyone has heard at least once, we’ve assembled a wide range of masterpieces, making this an article that both jazz enthusiasts and newcomers can enjoy.

We also explain the background and details of the production process, so if you’re looking to start learning about jazz, be sure to check out the review as well.

Classic jazz ballads in Western music. World-famous masterpieces and popular songs (21–30)

In a sentimental moodDuke Ellington & John Coltrane

Duke Ellington & John Coltrane – In a sentimental mood

In a sentimental moodDuke Ellington & John Coltrane

A beautiful collaboration from 1962 between Duke Ellington, a towering figure in American jazz, and the innovative saxophonist John Coltrane.

With a poetic vision that likens feelings for a loved one to a starry sky, the sublime harmony woven by Ellington’s elegant piano and Coltrane’s gentle saxophone sinks deeply into the heart.

The origin story from 1935 is also fascinating: a melody improvised to ease a quarrel between friends has since become a shining classic in jazz history.

It was memorably used in the 2005 film “Prime,” and it’s a piece you’ll want to listen to quietly in a café on a calm spring afternoon.

It offers a healing moment that warms the soul.

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It Might As Well Be SpringFrank Sinatra

It Might As Well Be Spring

It Might As Well Be SpringFrank Sinatra

A masterpiece that brilliantly portrays the longing for the arrival of spring.

The protagonist, who feels springlike emotions even though it isn’t spring, is sung with rich expressiveness.

Composed for the 1945 musical film “State Fair,” it has been included on several Frank Sinatra albums.

You can hear it on albums such as “Sinatra and Strings” (1962) and “It Might as Well Be Swing” (1964).

This is a song you’ll want to listen to on a long spring night.

Try playing it when you’re tired or unsettled to find some comfort.

Enjoy a track packed with the charm of Frank Sinatra.

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In conclusion

This time, we introduced not only standard jazz but also contemporary jazz—did you find any favorites? Personally, I think jazz has developed remarkably in places like Italy and Cuba, so if you want to dive deeper, I recommend exploring jazz from a worldwide perspective.

Ragu Music also has other articles featuring jazz, so be sure to check those out as well.