The best Jazz albums
of the 1960s.
Where to start with 1960–1969 jazz — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1960s — jazz
Top picks from 1960–1969, ranked by where we would start.
John Coltrane
Kulu Sé Mama
A transcendent exploration of spiritual themes through expansive improvisation and intricate rhythms, forging new paths in jazz.
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John Coltrane
The Last Trane
A meditative exploration of modal harmonies and improvisational freedom that embodies Coltrane's spiritual journey in jazz.
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Stevie Wonder
With a Song in My Heart
A vibrant blend of jazz standards and pop-infused melodies that showcases youthful exuberance and emotional depth.
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Stevie Wonder
Up Tight
A vibrant blend of soul and pop, marked by infectious melodies and rhythmic grooves that showcase Wonder's early musical genius.
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Randy Brecker
Score
A vibrant exploration of jazz fusion that blends intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity, showcasing Brecker's virtuosic trumpet work.
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Barbra Streisand
My Name Is Barbra, Two…
A lush blend of traditional pop and jazz, showcasing Streisand's powerful vocals through poignant storytelling.
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Barbra Streisand
The Barbra Streisand Album
A blend of jazz-inflected pop and traditional balladry, showcasing Streisand's powerful and emotive vocal delivery.
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Frank Sinatra
All the Way
Orchestral arrangements blend with Sinatra's smooth vocals to create an intimate and romantic listening experience.
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Frank Sinatra
Strangers in the Night
A lush orchestral backdrop intertwines with Sinatra's smooth vocals to create an intimate atmosphere of romance and nostalgia.
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Bob Dylan
Bringing It All Back Home
A groundbreaking fusion of folk and rock, marked by vivid storytelling and a raw, electric energy.
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Bob Dylan
John Wesley Harding
A return to stripped-down storytelling, where folk melodies intertwine with vivid narratives and characters from American folklore.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Sings the Johnny Mercer Songbook
A lush blend of jazz standards, imbued with Fitzgerald's velvety vocals and heartfelt interpretations of Mercer’s evocative lyrics.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Swings Brightly with Nelson
Ella Fitzgerald's rich vocals glide over lush orchestral arrangements, creating a vibrant and sophisticated swing atmosphere.
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Charles Aznavour
Charles Aznavour
A lush tapestry of romantic melodies intertwined with poignant storytelling and Aznavour's distinctive emotive vocal delivery.
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Charles Aznavour
Charles Aznavour
Melodic storytelling intertwines with rich orchestration, creating an intimate atmosphere that captures the essence of French chanson.
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Louis Armstrong
Disney Songs the Satchmo Way
A playful blend of jazz and whimsy transforms beloved Disney classics into a vibrant celebration of Louis Armstrong's distinct vocal charm.
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Louis Armstrong
I've Got the World on a String
A sophisticated blend of heartfelt ballads and swinging jazz that showcases Armstrong's rich, raspy voice and masterful trumpet playing.
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Miles Davis
Filles de Kilimanjaro
A vibrant fusion of jazz styles, blending electric instrumentation with intricate melodies and improvisational flair.
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Miles Davis
In Europe
A dynamic interplay of improvisation and melody, showcasing the essence of jazz in a live European setting.
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Bing Crosby
Return to Paradise Islands
A sun-drenched blend of lush melodies and gentle rhythms evokes the tranquil beauty of Hawaiian paradise.
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Bing Crosby
I Wish You a Merry Christmas
Warm, nostalgic arrangements meld with Crosby's smooth vocals, creating a timeless holiday atmosphere that feels both intimate and celebratory.
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Chet Atkins
The Most Popular Guitar
A seamless blend of classical guitar and soft jazz melodies creates an inviting, nostalgic atmosphere throughout the album.
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Chet Atkins
The Guitar Genius
A dazzling blend of intricate guitar work and melodic charm that showcases Chet Atkins' virtuosic talent across genres.
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Paul Bley
Footloose!
A vibrant exploration of jazz that intertwines intricate melodies with a playful, avant-garde spirit throughout its improvisational passages.
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