The best Jazz albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 jazz — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — jazz
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Prince
Prince
A vibrant blend of funk, pop, and R&B that showcases Prince's signature sound and charismatic songwriting.
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Prince
For You
A vibrant blend of funk, soul, and pop that showcases Prince's early musical genius and distinctive vocal style.
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John Coltrane
The Africa/Brass Sessions, Volume 2
A sprawling tapestry of sound that intertwines rich spiritual themes with avant-garde improvisation and complex rhythms.
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John Coltrane
Gold Coast
A sprawling exploration of African rhythms and modal improvisation that captures Coltrane's restless spirit.
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Stevie Wonder
Songs in the Key of Life
A vibrant blend of soul, funk, and jazz that celebrates love, life, and social consciousness through intricate melodies and lush instrumentation.
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Stevie Wonder
Talking Book
A vibrant fusion of soul, funk, and pop that showcases Wonder's innovative use of synthesizers and heartfelt lyricism.
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Barbra Streisand
Live Concert at the Forum
A vibrant showcase blending traditional pop with jazz-inflected arrangements, buoyed by Barbra Streisand's powerful vocals.
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Barbra Streisand
Stoney End
A rich blend of folk, pop, and orchestral arrangements showcases Streisand's powerful vocals against poignant lyrical themes.
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Frank Sinatra
Sinatra & Company
A smooth blend of bossa nova rhythms and Sinatra's iconic vocals creates an inviting, romantic atmosphere throughout the album.
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Frank Sinatra
Watertown
A melancholic journey through orchestral pop, blending narrative lyrics with lush arrangements and Sinatra's poignant vocal delivery.
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Bob Dylan
Planet Waves
A blend of heartfelt storytelling and musical simplicity, capturing the essence of American folk with a touch of rock.
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Bob Dylan
Slow Train Coming
Gospel-infused rock intertwines with Dylan's distinct storytelling, creating a profound exploration of faith and redemption.
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Diana Ross
Diana Ross
A blend of lush orchestration and disco grooves, showcasing Ross's powerful vocals in a vibrant celebration of love.
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Diana Ross
Last Time I Saw Him
Smooth melodies intertwine with lush orchestration, showcasing Ross's vocal elegance against a backdrop of soulful rhythms.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Montreux '75
A dazzling live showcase where Ella Fitzgerald's voice effortlessly dances through jazz standards with unmatched elegance.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald and Pass... Again
Ella Fitzgerald's warm, timeless voice weaves through classic standards with effortless elegance and emotional depth.
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Charles Aznavour
Je n'ai pas vu le temps passer…
A rich tapestry of heartfelt melodies adorned with Aznavour's poignant storytelling and lush orchestral arrangements.
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Miles Davis
In Concert (Miles Davis album)
A vibrant fusion of hard bop and jazz rock, pulsating with electric energy and improvisational fervor.
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Miles Davis
Pangaea
A sprawling exploration of jazz fusion that melds intricate rhythms with atmospheric soundscapes and electronic textures.
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Bing Crosby
Bing 'n' Basie
A lush blend of jazz-infused folk melodies and traditional pop harmonies, showcasing Crosby's smooth vocals against Basie's swinging arrangements.
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Bing Crosby
Feels Good, Feels Right
A smooth blend of traditional pop and jazz-inflected balladry, showcasing Crosby's timeless vocal charm.
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Chet Atkins
Picks on the Hits
A collection of smooth, melodic interpretations that blend country, pop, and jazz into a seamless acoustic tapestry.
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Chet Atkins
The Night Atlanta Burned
A masterful blend of classical, country, and jazz influences woven through intricate guitar arrangements.
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Paul Bley
Quiet Song
A meditative exploration of sound, where whispers of melody intertwine with minimalistic jazz expression.
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