Essential 1960s big band music

The best Big Band Music albums of the 1960s.

Where to start with 1960–1969 big band music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 1960s — big band music

Top picks from 1960–1969, ranked by where we would start.

Latin for Lovers

Doris Day

Latin for Lovers

Smooth Latin rhythms intertwine with Doris Day's warm vocals, creating a romantic soundscape perfect for candlelit evenings.

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Bright and Shiny

Doris Day

Bright and Shiny

A vibrant collection of traditional pop tunes infused with Doris Day's effervescent charm and melodic elegance.

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Dino: Italian Love Songs

Dean Martin

Dino: Italian Love Songs

A romantic blend of lush orchestration and smooth crooning that captures the essence of Italian love ballads.

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The Dean Martin TV Show

Dean Martin

The Dean Martin TV Show

A warm blend of classic standards that effortlessly drapes Dean Martin's smooth vocals over lush orchestral arrangements.

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When the Feeling Hits You!

Sammy Davis Jr.

When the Feeling Hits You!

A vibrant blend of jazz standards and emotional ballads showcasing Davis's dynamic vocal prowess and charismatic stage presence.

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I Gotta Right to Swing

Sammy Davis Jr.

I Gotta Right to Swing

A vibrant blend of swing, jazz, and blues that showcases Davis's charismatic vocal delivery and effortless charm.

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Sinatra–Basie – An Historic Musical First

Frank Sinatra

Sinatra–Basie – An Historic Musical First

Swinging big band arrangements meld with Sinatra's velvet vocals, creating an effortless dance between rhythm and melody.

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It Might as Well Be Swing

Frank Sinatra

It Might as Well Be Swing

A vibrant collection of swinging melodies and smooth vocals that captures the essence of classic jazz standards.

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The Gerry Mulligan Quartet

Gerry Mulligan

The Gerry Mulligan Quartet

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Night Lights

Gerry Mulligan

Night Lights

A lush blend of cool jazz textures with intricate arrangements that evoke late-night introspection and dreamy nostalgia.

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Love Tide

Nelson Riddle

Love Tide

Lush orchestral arrangements embrace smooth jazz melodies, creating an intimate soundscape that evokes romantic nostalgia.

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Love Is a Game of Poker

Nelson Riddle

Love Is a Game of Poker

A sophisticated blend of lush orchestration and smooth vocals, evoking the glamour of early '60s lounge culture.

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Cookin' the Blues

James Moody

Cookin' the Blues

A vibrant fusion of jazz and big band elements, showcasing intricate melodies and lively rhythms throughout each track.

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Don't Look Away Now!

James Moody

Don't Look Away Now!

A vibrant blend of jazz and big band elements, infused with playful energy and intricate arrangements that invite listeners to dance.

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Basie Meets Bond

Count Basie Orchestra

Basie Meets Bond

A vibrant fusion of classic jazz and cinematic flair, bringing the excitement of Bond to life through swinging big band arrangements.

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That Happy Feeling

Bert Kaempfert

That Happy Feeling

A vibrant blend of orchestral arrangements and light jazz, evoking a carefree sense of joy and nostalgia.

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A Swingin' Safari

Bert Kaempfert

A Swingin' Safari

Bright orchestral arrangements meet playful melodies in a lively celebration of global rhythms and carefree vibes.

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Wives and Lovers

Jack Jones

Wives and Lovers

Smooth orchestral arrangements blend with Jack Jones' rich vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere that captures the essence of early '60s pop standards.

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The New Don Ellis Band Goes Underground

Don Ellis

The New Don Ellis Band Goes Underground

A vibrant fusion of jazz and big band sounds, blending experimental arrangements with infectious grooves and brass-driven melodies.

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New Ideas

Don Ellis

New Ideas

A vibrant fusion of intricate arrangements and daring improvisation that pushes the boundaries of big band jazz.

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