The albums that define
big band music.
Our picks for where to start with big band music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top big band music artists
Start with one of these.
The big band music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Frank Sinatra
Moonlight Sinatra
A serene collection of romantic ballads, blending lush orchestration with Sinatra's velvet voice and intimate storytelling.
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Frank Sinatra
Sinatra and Strings
Lush orchestral arrangements envelop Sinatra's voice, blending romanticism with jazz elegance across timeless standards.
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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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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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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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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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Ringo Sheena
Hi Izuru Tokoro
A kaleidoscopic blend of genres where jazz-infused melodies intertwine with pop sensibilities and experimental rock textures.
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Ringo Sheena
Carnival
A vibrant fusion of alternative rock and traditional Japanese sounds creates a rich tapestry of rhythmic exploration and lyrical depth.
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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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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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Gerry Mulligan
Jazz Giants '58
A smooth interplay of cool jazz harmonies and intricate arrangements that invite both introspection and joy.
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Gerry Mulligan
Gerry Mulligan Bob Brookmeyer Play Phil Sunkel's Jazz Concerto Grosso
A lush blend of intricate arrangements and smooth improvisation that defines the cool jazz era.
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Nelson Riddle
Sea of Dreams
'Sea of Dreams' showcases Riddle's masterful arrangements that define his contribution to orchestral pop and big band music. Its flowing structure and emotive sound will draw you into the world of Riddle, highlighting his unique ability to enhance storytelling through music.
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Nelson Riddle
Love Tide
Lush orchestral arrangements embrace smooth jazz melodies, creating an intimate soundscape that evokes romantic nostalgia.
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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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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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Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman Today
A vibrant blend of classic swing and jazz elements, showcasing Benny Goodman's enduring virtuosity and charisma.
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Fred Astaire
The Astaire Story
A vibrant collection of classic standards showcasing Astaire's smooth vocal charm and timeless swing rhythms.
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Count Basie Orchestra
A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas!
Joyful arrangements blend classic holiday melodies with the vibrant energy of big band swing.
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Count Basie Orchestra
All About That Basie
A vibrant celebration of jazz standards delivered through rich orchestration and the Count Basie Orchestra's signature swing style.
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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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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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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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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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By decade
Where big band music landed in each era.