There are so many jazz songs out there. When learning jazz, itโs hard to know where to start and which jazz standards are the most important to learn.
Thatโs whyโฆ
Weโve created this list to help you and other beginner jazz musicians filter out the most important jazz standards to help you improve your jazz repertoire, absorb important jazz language, and get a comprehensive look at all the important sub-genres within jazz.
Not only will these jazz songs help you out during a jam session or gig, but they will also strengthen your harmonic knowledge and improvisation skills.
If you donโt know any of these tunes, take advantage of everything Learn Jazz Standards has to offer!
Learn Jazz Standards has spent years and countless hours building up the essential resources to help you learn these important songs.
Plus, if you want one convenient place to learn jazz standards, improve your jazz chops, and network with a bunch of musicians who love learning jazz as much as you do, then you need to check out the Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle.
When you join the Inner Circle, youโll have everything you need to become the best jazz player you can be.
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Table of Contents
Whatโs So Important About Learning Jazz Songs?
There are two main reasons why learning the following 50 jazz standards is crucial for your jazz education and development.
Jazz is a language, and jazz standards contain all the essential phrases, slang, vocabulary, and inflections you need in order to speak it fluently with other jazz musicians all over the world.
Jazz is a Language
Every city or region tends to have a different set of common jazz standards that jazz musicians will call. One cityโs list may differ slightly from another, but there are certain tunes that are the standards among standards and can be called anywhere throughout the world.
The 50 jazz standards weโve compiled are the โstandards among standardsโ that will help you communicate better with other musicians on any gig or jam session.
The Snowball Effect
Are you familiar with the snowball effect?
A snowball starts off small, but as it rolls through the snow, it grows larger and larger. As it grows, its surface area increases, allowing it to pick up more and more snow. The more snow it accumulates, the more snow it accumulates in the future.
Learning jazz standards works in exactly the same way. Many jazz standards are built from the same chord changes and progressions. In a sense, when you learn one jazz song, you are learning the parts of many other jazz songs.
Therefore, the more jazz standards you learn, the easier and easier it becomes for you to learn any jazz song.
The following 50 jazz standards contain many elements that appear in most songs throughout the jazz world. Though the key might change or the time signature may be different, the components of many jazz songs are the same.
Now, letโs dig into the 50 jazz standards every jazz musician needs to know.
50 Popular Jazz Standards All Jazz Musicians Need to Know
In the following list of famous jazz tunes, weโll include some important listening recommendations and other important bits of information jazz fans should know.
For an in-depth dive into these jazz songs, be sure to click through the links below:
1. All of Me
โAll of Meโ โ Written by Gerald Marks and Seymour Simons.
This song became popular during the swing era and, in the mid-20th century, reached the top of the US pop charts thanks to many different recording artists.
Louis Armstrong recorded a famous version that reached the #1 spot on the US charts in 1931. Billie Holiday recorded the most famous version in 1941. Frank Sinatra recorded this same tune various times throughout his career.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
Check out:
- Louis Armstrong โ โHome/All of Meโ (1932)
- Count Basie and His Orchestra โ โFrankly Basie: Count Basie Plays The Hits Of Frank Sinatraโ (1963)
- Ella Fitzgerald โ โElla Swings Gently with Nelson (1993 reissue)โ โ (1961)
Learn how to play All of Me!
2. All The Things You Are
โAll The Things You Areโ โ Written by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II.
When it comes to learning jazz, โAll The Things You Areโ is a signature tune you need to know. Despite being written for a musical in 1939, this song became popular during the Bebop era, when many jazz musicians played the song with a faster tempo than vocal versions.
Check out these recorded versions:
- Art Tatum and Ben Webster Quartet โ All the Things You Are (1956)
- Bill Evans Trio on the album โAt Shellyโs Manne-Holeโ (1963)
- Dave Brubeck on the album โAll the Things We Areโ (1974)
Learn how to play All The Things You Are!
3. Alone Together
โAlone Togetherโ โ Written by Arthur Schwartz and Howard Dietz.
This song, like many jazz standards, was written for a Broadway musical โ Flying Colors (1932). However, many jazz instrumentalists have taken it and made it their own. This song became most popular during the cool jazz era.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
- Dizzy Gillespie and Oscar Peterson โ โAlone Together” (1974)
- Paul Desmond โ โTake Tenโ (1963)
- Bill Evans โ โLive At The Trident Clubโ (1964)
Learn how to play Alone Together!
4. Autumn Leaves
โAutumn Leavesโ โ Music by Joseph Kosma and lyrics by Jacques Prรฉvert (French) and Johnny Mercer (English).
As far as jazz songs are concerned, Autumn Leaves may be the most famous tune on this list. This song joined the ranks of popular tunes in the Hard Bop era and was originally a French song: โLes Feuilles Mortes.โ
Listen to these great recorded versions:
- Ahmad Jamal โ โThe Ahmad Jamal Trioโ (1955)
- Cannonball Adderley โ Somthin Else (1958)
- Sarah Vaughan โ โCrazy And Mixed Upโ (1982)
Learn how to play Autumn Leaves!
5. Billieโs Bounce
โBillieโs Bounceโ โ Written by Charlie Parker.
Every jazz musician needs to know several blues heads, and Billieโs Bounce is a great tune to start practicing the jazz blues.
- Charlie Parker โ โThe Complete Savoy Sessionsโ (1945)
- Dizzy Gillespie โ โTo Bird with Loveโ (1992)
- George Benson โ โGiblet Gravyโ (1968)
Learn how to play Billies Bounce and other jam blues tunes!
6. Black Orpheus (Manhรฃ de Carnaval)
โBlack Orpheusโ โ Music by Luiz Bonfรก and lyrics by Antรดnio Maria
This list includes several Latin jazz tunes, and no list is complete without a few Latin or Bossa Nova tunes. As jazz songs go, โBlack Orpheusโ is a unique blend of South American and Ancient Greek folklore and Cool Jazz.
- Wayne Shorter โ โWayning Momentsโ (1961)
- Astrud Gilberto โ โThe Shadow of Your Smileโ (1965)
- Paul Desmond โ โTake Tenโ (1963)
Learn how to play Black Orpheus and learn more about Bossa Nova Chord Progressions.
7. Blue Bossa
โBlue Bossaโ โ Written by Kenny Dorham.
Blue Bossa is another common jam session tune that is usually played fast with a Latin feel.
There are many great recordings of Blue Bossa, but a few notable ones are listed below.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
- Joe Henderson โ โPage Oneโ (1963)
- Dexter Gordon โ โBiting the Appleโ (1976)
- Pat Martino โ โExitโ (1976)
Learn how to play Blue Bossa!
8. Body and Soul
โBody and Soulโ โ Written by Johnny Green, Edward Heyman, Robert Sour, and Frank Eyton.
This jazz song is a staple among ballads in the jazz tradition. The rich and intricate harmonic structure of โBody and Soulโ offers an expansive landscape for improvisation. Itโs certainly a favorite among many great players, from Coleman Hawkins to John Coltrane.
Be sure to check out:
- Coleman Hawkins โ โBody and Soulโ (1939)
- Billie Holiday โ โBody and Soulโ (1940)
- John Coltrane โ โColtraneโs Soundโ (1960)
Learn how to play Body and Soul!
9. But Not For Me
โBut Not For Meโ โ Written by Ira and George Gershwin.
This George and Ira Gershwin tune is a classic enshrined in the Great American Songbook. The swinging rhythm and witty yet melancholic lyrics evoke a bittersweet quality thatโs typical of the Gershwinsโ many jazz songs.
Be sure to check out:
- Chet Baker โ โChet Baker Singsโ (1954)
- Ella Fitzgerald โ โElla Fitzgerald Sings the George and Ira Gershwin Songbookโ (1959)
- Ahmad Jamal โ โAt the Pershing: But Not for Meโ (1958)
Learn how to play But Not For Me!
10. Bye Bye Blackbird
โBye Bye Blackbirdโ โ Written by Ray Henderson and Mort Dixon
One of the emblematic songs from the Tin Pan Alley era, โBye Bye Blackbird,โ should be on your tune list. Its uplifting melody and simple harmonic structure offer an ideal foundation for improvisation.
Be sure to check out:
- Miles Davis โ โโRound About Midnightโ (1957)
- John Coltrane โ โBye Bye Blackbirdโ (recorded 1962, released 1981)
- Etta Jones โ โDonโt Go to Strangersโ (1960)
Learn how to play Bye Bye Blackbird!
11. Cherokee
โCherokeeโ โ Written by Ray Noble.
With its rapid-fire chord changes and lively tempo, โCherokeeโ by Ray Noble is a rite of passage for any musician. Itโs a high-octane challenge, demanding technical proficiency, improvisational agility, and a deep sense of swing.
As the tune that inspired Charlie Parker to develop his bebop language, โCherokeeโ stands as a milestone in the evolution of the genre, marking the shift from swing to bebop.
- Johnny Smith โ โMoonlight in Vermontโ (1952)
- Clifford Brown and Max Roach โ โStudy in Brownโ (1955)
- Kamasi Washington โ โThe Epicโ (2015)
Learn how to play Cherokee!
12. Confirmation
โConfirmationโ โ Written by Charlie Parker
Charlie Parkerโs โConfirmationโ is a prime example of the intricate melodic lines and complex harmonies that characterize the bebop era. Its challenging chord changes and infectious swing feel have made it a favorite among musicians.
While it is one of the more challenging songs on this list, it offers endless opportunities for creative improvisation and is a must-know. Check out:
- Barry Harris and Kenny Barron โ โConfirmationโ (1992)
- Art Blakey โ โA Night at Birdland Vol. 2โ (1954)
- Dexter Gordon โ โDaddy Plays the Hornโ (1955)
Learn how to play Confirmation!
13. Days of Wine and Roses
โDays of Wine and Rosesโ โ Written by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer.
This gem from Henry Mancini is known for its delicate, lyrical melody and subtle harmonic complexity. The tune was written for the 1962 film of the same name and is an example of how cinematic music can be transformed into a jazz standard.
Be sure to check out:
- Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass โ โEasy Livingโ (1986)
- Bill Evans and Tony Bennet โ โDays Of Wine And Rosesโ (1975)
- Oscar Peterson โ โWe Get Requestsโ (1964)
Learn how to play Days of Wine and Roses!
14. Doxy
โDoxyโ โ Written by Sonny Rollins.
โDoxyโ is a playful, melodic journey through simple blues changes. This tune stands out for its catchy riff-based melody, a testament to Rollinsโ fun and quirky style.
Be sure to check out:
- Sonny Rollins and Miles Davis โ โMiles Davis with Sonny Rollinsโ (1954)
- Miles Davis โ โBagโs Grooveโ (1954)
- John Coltrane โ โLike Sonnyโ (1960)
Learn how to play Doxy.
15. Fly Me To The Moon
โFly Me To The Moonโ โ Written by Bart Howard.
This song made it onto the pop charts several times with many popular artists over the years.
This song embodies the charisma and elegance of jazz. Its memorable melody, romantic lyricism, and accessible harmonic progression have made it a beloved standard in jazz and other music circles.
Be sure to check out:
- Frank Sinatra โ โIt Might As Well Be Swingโ (1964)
- Joe Henderson โ โStraight, No Chaserโ (1968)
- Oscar Peterson โ โWe Get Requestsโ (1964)
Learn how to play Fly Me To The Moon and check out our article on the Fly Me To The Moon chords.
16. Footprints
โFootprintsโ โ Written by Wayne Shorter.
Wayne Shorterโs โFootprintsโ is a masterclass in jazz composition. With its haunting melody 6/4 time signature, and unique minor blues form, it pushes boundaries and invites a profound exploration of modal jazz.
Be sure to check out:
- Miles Davis โ โMiles Smilesโ (1966)
- Wayne Shorter โ โAdamโs Appleโ (1966)
- Pat Martino โ โThe Visitโ (1972)
Learn how to play Footprints.
17. Four
โFourโ โ Written by Miles Davis.
This tune is a prime example of his knack for composing tunes that are as engaging as they are straightforward. The playful melody and fast tempo exemplify Davisโs cool and accessible approach to bebop.
โFourโ offers an enjoyable challenge for musicians while serving as a solid introduction to jazz harmony.
Be sure to check out:
- Red Garland โ โRed Garland Revisited!โ (1969)
- Dexter Gordon โ โBouncinโ with Dexโ (1976)
- Maynard Ferguson โ โMaynard โ62โ (1962)
Learn how to play Four.
18. Have You Met Miss Jones
โHave You Met Miss Jonesโ โ Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart.
This charming piece by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart from the Swing Era is beloved for its catchy melody and unexpected harmonic complexity. The bridgeโs sequence of key changes is a challenging exercise for jazz players.
Be sure to check out:
- Oscar Peterson โ โWe Get Requestsโ (1964)
- Benny Goodman โ โCamel Caravanโ (1937)
- Art Tatum โ โThe Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces Vol. 1โ (1953)
Learn how to play Have You Met Miss Jones.
19. How High The Moon
โHow High The Moonโ โ Written by Morgan Lewis and Nancy Hamilton.
โHow High The Moonโ has become a must-know tune for modern musicians. The tune is often played at a brisk tempo. Charlie Parkerโs famous bebop composition, โOrnithology,โ is basically a new melody with the same changes (known as a contrafact).
Be sure to check out:
- Keely Smith โ โIโm in Love Againโ (1985)
- Bing Crosby โ โEl Seรฑor Bingโ (1960)
- Abbey Lincoln โ โThe World Is Falling Downโ (1991)
Learn how to play How High The Moon.
20. I Hear a Rhapsody
โI Hear a Rhapsodyโ โ Written by George Fragos, Jack Baker, and Dick Gasparre.
This tune has rich harmonies and a lyrical melody. Its intricate chord changes and structure embody the essence of 1940s pop music. This jazz song is a challenge to play at fast tempos due to the parallel minor seventh chords that move in minor thirds at the end of the A sections.
Check out:
- Chick Corea, Miroslav Vitous, and Roy Haynes โ โTrio Music โ Live in Europeโ (1986)
- John Coltrane โ โLush Lifeโ (1961)
- Art Blakey โ โArt Blakey!!!!! Jazz Messengers!!!!!โ (1961)
Learn how to play I Hear A Rhapsody.
21. I Love You
โI Love Youโ โ Written by Cole Porter.
This Cole Porter tune is a delight for both musicians and listeners. Originally written for a 1944 Broadway musical, it has since become a bona fide standard, often played at a brisk tempo.
โI Love Youโ offers a gratifying challenge to improvisers with its mixture of classic Broadway charm and harmonic complexity.
Be sure to check out:
- Mike Stern โ โGive And Takeโ (1997)
- Oscar Peterson โ โI Love You / Daahoudโ (1962)
- Bill Evans โ โNew Jazz Conceptionsโ (1956)
Learn how to play I Love You.
22. I Remember You
โI Remember Youโ โ Written by Victor Schertzinger and Johnny Mercer.
With its tender, catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this jazz song is often interpreted as a nostalgic ballad.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
Be sure to check out:
- Bjรถrk โ โVenus As A Boyโ (1993)
- Chet Baker โ โChet Baker Sings and Plays With Bud Shank, Russ Freeman, and Stringsโ (1955)
- Sarah Vaughan โ โI Remember Youโ (2003)
Learn how to play I Remember You!
23. Iโll Remember April
โIโll Remember Aprilโ โ Written by Gene de Paul, Patricia Johnston, and Don Raye.
โIโll Remember Aprilโ is known for its bright melody and lively harmonic progression. Often played at a brisk tempo, it is a staple in the bebop and mainstream repertoire and is a great vehicle for improvisation.
- Grant Green โ โStandardsโ (1961)
- Jim Hall and Ron Carter โ โAlone Togetherโ (1973)
- Erroll Garner โ โConcert by the Seaโ (1955)
Learn how to play I’ll Remember April.
24. Iโm Old Fashioned
โIโm Old Fashionedโ โ Written by Jerome Kern and Johnny Mercer.
This Jerome Kern and Johnny Mercer jazz song stands out as a quintessential ballad. Its lyrical melody, romantic lyrics, and elegant harmony invite musicians to take their time exploring its depths.
Be sure to check out:
- John Coltrane โ โBlue Trainโ (1957)
- Paul Desmond โ โPure Desmondโ (1975)
- Eileen Farrell โ โIโve Got a Right to Sing the Bluesโ (1960)
Learn how to play I’m Old Fashioned.
25. If I Should Lose You
โIf I Should Lose Youโ โ Written by Ralph Rainger and Leo Robin.
โIf I Should Lose Youโ is a deeply emotive jazz standard. Composed by Ralph Rainger and Leo Robin, it is usually played as a melancholic ballad and serves as a perfect platform for heartfelt improvisation.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
Be sure to check out:
- Sonny Stitt โ โSonny Stitt Playsโ (1955)
- Shirley Horn โ โEmbers and Ashesโ (1959)
- Chick Corea and Stefano Bollani โ โOrvietoโ (2010)
Learn how to play If I Should Lose You.
BEFORE YOU CONTINUE...
If you struggle to learn jazz standards by ear, memorize them, and not get lost in the song form, then our free guide will completely change the way you learn tunes forever.
26. If I Were A Bell
โIf I Were A Bellโ โ Written by Frank Loesser.
This Frank Loesser tune is a delightful romp with a playful melody and cheery lyrics. Its rhythmic buoyancy and standard harmonic structure make it an excellent vehicle for jazz improvisation.
Be sure to check out:
- Dinah Washington โ โIn the Land of Hi-Fiโ (1956)
- Ella Fitzgerald โ โElla Swings Lightlyโ (1958)
- Miles Davis โ โRelaxinโ with the Miles Davis Quintetโ (1956)
Learn how to play If I Were A Bell.
27. In A Mellow Tone
โIn A Mellow Toneโ โ Written by Duke Ellington and Milt Gabler.
This song became popular during the Swing era with a recording by Duke Ellington and his famous orchestra. โIn A Mellow Toneโ exhibits Ellingtonโs ability to meld sophisticated harmonies with an approachable and enjoyable melody.
- Count Basie โ โBreakfast Dance and Barbecueโ (1959)
- Joe Pass โ โPortraits of Duke Ellingtonโ (1975)
- Sonny Stitt โ โSonny Stitt with Strings: A Tribute to Duke Ellingtonโ (1977)
Learn how to play In A Mellow Tone.
28. In A Sentimental Mood
โIn A Sentimental Moodโ โ Written by Duke Ellington and Irving Mills.
This tune is an evocative ballad known for its deeply emotional melody and harmonic richness. The tune invites musicians to delve into its poignant narrative, often resulting in expressive and introspective performances. Check out:
- Michael Brecker โ โMagneticโ (1986)
- Michel Petrucciani, Jim Hall, and Wayne Shorter โ โPower of Threeโ (1987)
- Johnny Mathis โ โIn a Sentimental Mood: Mathis Sings Ellingtonโ (1990)
Learn how to play In A Sentimental Mood.
29. It Could Happen To You
โIt Could Happen To Youโ โ Written by Jimmy Van Heusen and Johnny Burke.
With its bright melody and uplifting lyrics, the song provides a buoyant backdrop for improvisation. Be sure to check out:
- Sonny Rollins โ โSound of Sonnyโ ( 1957)
- Bud Powell โ โThe Amazing Bud Powell, Vol. 1โ (1951)
- Miles Davis โ โRelaxinโ with the Miles Davis Quintetโ โ (1956)
Learn how to play It Could Happen You.
30. Just Friends
โJust Friendsโ โ Written by John Klenner and Sam M. Lewis.
A favorite among jazz instrumentalists, this tune by John Klenner and Sam M. Lewis is known for its strong, memorable melody and exciting chord changes. Be sure to check out:
- Pat Martino โ โEl Hombreโ (1967)
- Dizzy Gillespie โ โThe Trumpet Summit Meets the Oscar Peterson Big 4โ (1980)
- Sun Ra & His Arkestra โ โJust Friendsโ (1983)
Learn how to play Just Friends!
31. Misty
โMistyโ โ Written by Erroll Garner and Johnny Burke.
Misty is a beautiful ballad that has many amazing versions you should check out. This is one of the songs youโll most likely play with a vocalist at some point. The chord progression and slow tempo allow young improvisers plenty of space to try new ideas while soloing.
Be sure to check out:
- Charles Mingus โ โJazz Club Presents Charles Mingus, Lionel Hampton, Earl โFathaโ Hinesโ (2017)
- Count Basie โ โDance Along with Basieโ (1959)
- Aretha Franklin โ โYeah!!!โ (1965)
Learn how to play Misty!
32. My Funny Valentine
โMy Funny Valentineโ โ Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart.
Known for its tender melody and humourous lyrics, this jazz song is a fun playground for instrumentalists and vocalists alike. Check out some of these renditions (yes, even Chaka Khan did a version).
- Keith Jarrett โ โStill Liveโ (1988)
- Chet Baker โ โChet Baker Sings (1956 reissue)โ โ (1956)
- Chaka Khan โ โWaiting to Exhale (Soundtrack)โ (1995)
Learn how to play My Funny Valentine!
33. Night and Day
โNight and Dayโ โ Written by Cole Porter.
The tuneโs hypnotic melody and clever harmonic progressions invite musicians to explore its complex structure. This tune is a great vehicle for practicing transposing ideas in minor thirds.
Be sure to check out:
- Ella Fitzgerald โ โElla Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Song Bookโ (1956)
- Bill Evans โ โEverybody Digs Bill Evansโ (1959)
- Morten Haxholm โ โEquilibriumโ (2019)
Learn how to play Night and Day!
34. Oleo
โOleoโ โ Written by Sonny Rollins.
Learning a rhythm changes tune is essential for playing at jam sessions! If you learn the changes to one rhythm changes tune, you (basically) learn the changes to all of them. Oleo is a great rhythm change head to learn because the melody isnโt too difficult.
Be sure to check out:
- Sonny Rollins and Miles Davis โ โMiles Davis with Sonny Rollinsโ (1954)
- Pat Martino โ โDesperadoโ (1970)
- Eric Dolphy โ โEric Dolphy In Europe, Vol. 1โ (1989)
Learn how to play Oleo!
35. On Green Dolphin Street
โOn Green Dolphin Streetโ โ Written by Bronisลaw Kaper and Ned Washington.
This is a jazz standard known for its unique structure and catchy, swinging melody. Itโs especially noted for its harmonic shifts between major and minor, providing a fun vehicle for improvisation.
Check out:
- Barney Kessel โ โThe Poll Winnersโ (1957)
- Chick Corea and Return to Forever โ โLiveโ (1977)
- Grant Green โ โGoodenโs Cornerโ (1961)
Learn how to play On Green Dolphin Street.
36. Recorda Me
โRecorda Meโ โ Written by Joe Henderson.
This tuneโs contagious Latin groove, coupled with its strong melody and modern harmonic structure, offers musicians a gratifying challenge. Its fusion of jazz harmony with Afro-Cuban rhythms makes it a unique entry on this list.
Check out:
- Steps Ahead โ โSmokinโ in the Pitโ (1980)
- McCoy Tyner โ โNew York Reunionโ (1991)
- Art Farmer โ โSoul Eyesโ (1991)
Learn how to play Recorda Me!
37. Satin Doll
โSatin Dollโ โ Written by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, lyrics by Johnny Mercer.
Often performed with a relaxed swing feel, the tune is a great exercise for musicians to stretch out and practice their jazz chops.
Notable versions include:
- Dr. John โ โDuke Elegantโ (1999)
- Hank Jones โ โSomeday My Prince Will Comeโ (2002)
- McCoy Tyner โ โNights of Ballads & Bluesโ (1963)
Learn how to play Satin Doll.
38. Stella By Starlight
โStella By Starlightโ โ Written by Victor Young and Ned Washington.
Known for its hauntingly beautiful melody and complex harmonic progression, โStella By Starlightโ is one of the most revered standards in the jazz repertoire. Its rich harmonic language leads to creative and emotive improvisations.
Be sure to explore:
- Robert Glasper โ โCoveredโ (2015)
- Ray Charles โ โDedicated to Youโ (1961)
- Vic Juris โ โVic Plays Victor Youngโ (2016)
Learn how to play Stella By Starlight!
39. Scrapple From The Apple
โScrapple From The Appleโ โ Written by Charlie Parker.
This tune is a quintessential bebop composition. Known for its fast-paced melody and rhythmic complexity, โScrapple From The Appleโ is a challenging yet stimulating playground for improvisation.
Check out:
- Curtis Fuller โ โJazz Conference Abroadโ (1962)
- Dexter Gordon โ โOur Man in Parisโ (1963)
- Jim Hall โ โJim Hall Live!โ (1975)
Learn how to play Scrapple From The Apple.
40. So What
โSo Whatโ โ Written by Miles Davis.
As the opening track of Miles Davisโs revolutionary album โKind of Blue,โ โSo Whatโ is a pillar of modal jazz. The tune, known for its sparse melodic theme and modal harmonic structure, encourages musicians to explore beyond traditional chord-scale relationships.
Check out:
- Miles Davis โ Kind of Blue (1959)
- Miles Davis โ โFourโ & More: Recorded Live in Concertโ (1964)
- Miles Davis and John Coltrane โ โMiles Davis & John Coltrane The Final Tourโ (2018)
Learn how to play So What!
41. Solar
โSolarโ โ Written by Miles Davis.
โSolarโ showcases Milesโs knack for composing tunes that are as engaging as they are straightforward. Its catchy theme and unique chord changes have made it a favorite of music lovers.
image source: Wikipedia Commons
Check out:
- Miles Davis โ โMiles Davis Quintetโ (1954)
- Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Roy Haynes โ โQuestion And Answerโ (1990)
- Bill Evans โ โSunday At The Village Vanguardโ (1961)
Learn how to play Solar.
42. St. Thomas
โSt. Thomasโ โ Written by Sonny Rollins.
This tune is one of the most famous examples of the fusion between jazz and Caribbean rhythms. With its catchy, calypso-inspired melody and straightforward chord changes, โSt. Thomasโ provides a lively and refreshing platform for improvisation.
Check out:
- Sonny Rollins โ โSaxophone Colossusโ (1956)
- Ron Carter and Jim Hall โ โAlone Togetherโ (1972)
- Dallas Original Jazz Orchestra โ โWhere Thereโs Smokeโ (2009)
Learn how to play St. Thomas.
43. Sweet Georgia Brown
โSweet Georgia Brownโ โ Written by Ben Bernie, Maceo Pinkard, and Kenneth Casey.
Whether itโs interpreted in a traditional Dixieland style or given a modern twist, โSweet Georgia Brownโ always brings an invigorating burst of energy to any performance.
Check out:
- Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli โ โDjango Reinhardt and Stรฉphane Grappelliโ (2005)
- Art Tatum โ โGod is in the Houseโ (1973)
- Charlie Parker, Lester Young, and Dizzy Gillespie โ โEarly Modern: 1946 Concert Recordingsโ (1971)
Learn how to play Sweet Georgia Brown.
44. Take The A Train
โTake The A Trainโ โ Billy Strayhorn
โTake The A Trainโ is a jazz music staple! Billy Strayhornโs clever songwriting and harmonically sophisticated style are evident in this jazz songโs catchy melody and distinctive rhythmic motif. It perfectly captures the essence of the Duke Ellington Orchestraโs sound.
Listen to:
- Clifford Brown with Max Roach โ โStudy in Brownโ (1955)
- Ella Fitzgerald โ โElla Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Song Bookโ (1957)
- Anita OโDay โ โAnita OโDay Sings the Winnersโ (1958)
Learn how to play Take The A Train.
45. The Girl From Ipanema
โThe Girl From Ipanemaโ โ Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes, English lyrics by Norman Gimbel.
Composed by Antonio Carlos Jobim, this bossa nova classic helped popularize Brazilian music in the US in the 1960s. Its sensual melody, laid-back groove, and evocative lyrics have made it one of the more beloved jazz songs worldwide.
Listen to:
- Stan Getz and Joรฃo Gilberto โ โGetz/Gilbertoโ (1964)
- Frank Sinatra and Carlos Antonio Jobim โ โFrancis Albert Sinatra and Carlos Antonio Jobimโ (1967)
- Oscar Peterson โ โWe Get Requestsโ (1964)
Learn how to play The Girl From Ipanema.
46. There Is No Greater Love
โThere Is No Greater Loveโ โ Written by Isham Jones and Marty Symes.
This Isham Jones and Marty Symes tune showcases the romantic side of the jazz tradition. Known for its sweet melody and simple yet effective chord changes, it provides a platform for both lyrical and up-tempo improvisation.
Check out:
- Ahmad Jamal โ โAt the Pershing: But Not for Meโ (1958)
- Amy Winehouse โ โFrankโ (2003)
- Nat King Cole โ โThe Very Thought of Youโ (1958)
Learn how to play There Is No Greater Love.
47. There Will Never Be Another You
โThere Will Never Be Another Youโ โ Written by Harry Warren and Mack Gordon.
Known for its upbeat melody and harmonically satisfying progression, itโs a blast to improvise over. This is another must-know tune.
Be sure to listen to:
- Chet Baker โ โChet Baker Sings (1956 reissue)โ โ (1956)
- Nat King Cole โ โNat King Cole Sings for Two in Loveโ (1955)
- Wynton Kelly Trio โ โPiano Interpretationsโ (1951)
Learn how to play There Will Never Be Another You.
48. Up Jumped Spring
โUp Jumped Springโ โ Written by Freddie Hubbard.
This Freddie Hubbard composition stands as a testament to his talent not only as a trumpeter but also as a composer. With its buoyant melody and unique harmonic structure, it offers a delightful challenge for improvisation, highlighting the more playful and imaginative side of the genre.
- Curtis Fuller โ โUp Jumped Springโ (2003)
- Benny Golson โ โUp Jumped Bennyโ (1997)
- Freddie Hubbard โ โBacklashโ (1967)
Learn how to play Up Jumped Spring.
49. What Is This Thing Called Love
โWhat Is This Thing Called Loveโ โ Written by Cole Porter.
This tune is another staple of jam sessions. Its catchy melody and sophisticated harmonic changes have made it a beloved standard for jam sessions, often performed way up.
Check out:
- Joe Henderson โ โStraight, No Chaserโ (1968)
- Cannonball Adderley โ โAt the Lighthouseโ (1960)
- Bobby McFerrin and Herbie Hancock โ โThe Other Side of โRound Midnightโ (1986)
Learn how to play What Is This Thing Called Love.
50. Yesterdays
โYesterdaysโ โ Written by Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach.
โYesterdaysโ is an evocative ballad performed in a minor key. Its haunting melody and complex harmonic structure provide a compelling platform for heartfelt improvisation.
Check out:
- Buddy Rich and Max Roach โ โRich vs. Roachโ (1959)
- Clifford Brown โ โClifford Brown with Stringsโ (1955)
- Stephane Grappelli and Yehudi Menuhin โ โTea for Twoโ (1977)
Learn how to play Yesterdays.
Are These Commonly Played Jazz Songs The Best Jazz Songs?
No! There are so many incredible jazz songs out there. Trimming the list to a modest fifty means ignoring so many great jazz songs. From John Coltraneโs โGiant Stepsโ to Louis Armstrongโs version of โWhat A Wonderful Worldโ and beyond, many incredible jazz songs were not included on this listโฆ
โฆAnd itโs not because they arenโt great!
To truly expose yourself to all the best jazz songs, you should listen to all the albums listed under each entry. That will give you a greater picture of all the best jazz songs out there.
Letโs do the math: 50 jazz songs X three suggested albums for each jazz song = 150 albums!
There are simply too many types of jazz music to create a simple โbest jazz songsโ list.
At a certain level, the โbest jazz songsโ comes down to personal preference. Thatโs why you should go make your own 50 best jazz songs list and compare it to this one!
Your list might include the Horace Silver tune โSong For My Fatherโ or the Lee Morgan tune โThe Sidewinder.โ You might prefer more Jaco Pistorious and less Frank Sinatra. Your list will depend on your personal jazz music preferences.
Your โbest jazz songsโ list might include soul jazz, smooth jazz, or other subgenres instead of bebop or hard bop, and it wouldnโt be wrong.
How Many of These Jazz Standards Do You Know?
This list contains everything you need to learn jazz standards. If you memorize the chord changes and new melodies of these great American songbook classics, youโll be well on your way to understanding jazz harmony, jazz music theory, and improvisational language.
Already know every popular jazz standard on this list? Have you already battle-tested these songs at your last local jam session?
Your journey is not overโvisit our index to view an even larger list of songs.
Master Jazz Standards And Become the Best Jazz Musician You Can BeโJoin The Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle
If you are ready to get serious about learning jazz standards (and want to have a blast doing so), then you need to check out the Inner Circle.
When you join the Inner Circle, youโll get instant access to years and years of jazz resources LJS has developed, as well as a deep dive into a new jazz standard every month. The Inner Circle is perfect for players who want to take their jazz chops, tune repertoire, and music theory knowledge to the next level.
Improve in 30 days or less. Join the Inner Circle.