Essential 2010s smooth jazz

The best Smooth Jazz albums of the 2010s.

Where to start with 2010–2019 smooth jazz — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2010s — smooth jazz

Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.

Inspiration: A Tribute to Nat King Cole

George Benson

Inspiration: A Tribute to Nat King Cole

Smooth jazz interpretations blend with heartfelt vocals, honoring the timeless elegance of Nat King Cole's classics.

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Guitar Man

George Benson

Guitar Man

Smooth jazz melodies intertwine with pop sensibilities, showcasing Benson's virtuosic guitar skills and soothing vocals.

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The Beat

Boney James

The Beat

A vibrant fusion of smooth jazz rhythms and soulful melodies that invites both relaxation and upliftment.

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Contact

Boney James

Contact

A smooth blend of jazz and R&B textures that invites listeners into a warm, melodic soundscape.

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A Foreign Affair

Spyro Gyra

A Foreign Affair

A vibrant fusion of smooth jazz and world music influences creates a rich, textured sonic landscape throughout the album.

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Heart and Soul

Kenny G

Heart and Soul

Smooth melodies intertwine with lush instrumentation, creating a serene soundscape that invites relaxation and introspection.

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Brazilian Nights

Kenny G

Brazilian Nights

A lush blend of smooth jazz and bossa nova, evoking the vibrant atmosphere of a Brazilian night.

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Little Broken Hearts

Norah Jones

Little Broken Hearts

A haunting blend of jazz-inflected melodies and introspective lyrics that explore heartache and resilience.

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Day Breaks

Norah Jones

Day Breaks

A rich tapestry of jazz and soul, blending introspective lyrics with lush instrumentation and Norah Jones' signature smooth vocals.

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Take Your Pick

Larry Carlton

Take Your Pick

A smooth blend of jazz-infused melodies and intricate guitar work creates an inviting sonic landscape.

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Wallflower

Diana Krall

Wallflower

A lush, introspective collection of covers that blends jazz with classic soft rock sensibilities.

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Soldier of Love

Sade

Soldier of Love

Smooth melodies blend with poignant lyrics, enveloping listeners in Sade's signature soulful warmth and introspective themes.

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Renaissance

Marcus Miller

Renaissance

A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, seamlessly blending intricate grooves with soulful melodies and rich instrumentation.

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Afrodeezia

Marcus Miller

Afrodeezia

Afrodeezia encapsulates Marcus Miller’s ability to merge funk, jazz, and world influences, offering a vibrant introduction to his artistry. It balances accessibility with depth, making it for new listeners exploring his diverse sound.

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Glad Rag Doll

Diana Krall

Glad Rag Doll

A blend of vintage jazz and contemporary sophistication, wrapped in lush instrumentation and Krall's sultry vocals.

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Dai Hakken

Tokyo Jihen

Dai Hakken

A kaleidoscopic blend of pop, rock, and jazz influences creating a vibrant sonic landscape full of eclectic energy.

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Color Bars (EP)

Tokyo Jihen

Color Bars (EP)

A vibrant fusion of pop and jazz, weaving intricate melodies with a playful yet sophisticated flair.

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Two Fabulous Fools

Winterplay

Two Fabulous Fools

A breezy blend of smooth jazz harmonies and playful pop melodies that invites listeners to unwind and savor each note.

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Touché Mon Amour

Winterplay

Touché Mon Amour

A lush blend of smooth jazz and soft pop, enveloping listeners in warm melodies and intricate arrangements.

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