Relaxing Jazz Music to Add to Your Playlist in 2023

6. Merlon Devine - Air I Breathe​

Expert Saxophonist Merlon Devine begins our list with the wonderful "Air I Breathe”. I picked this track to start because Merlon's flute work fully embodies the definition of relaxing. The song is driven by a smooth and airy melody that within seconds takes listeners on a metaphorical stroll the park.

Around the 3 minute mark, the song picks a bit more with expressive percussion that provides a triumph and invigorating finish to the song. What’s special about Merlon Devine is his ability to stay true to the roots of Jazz while giving the "Watercolors" fanbase something to cherish. Air I Breathe is the perfect track to unwind at the end of the day which is why it starts off our list of relaxing jazz music.

We interviewed Merlon Devine in 2023 regarding Soul Jazz and more. Check it out!

5. Freddie Fox - Smooth​

For Number 5, we increase the tempo a bit with Smooth, an amazing cut from Jazz guitarist Freddie Fox. Smooth is the perfect morning soundtrack as the melody soothes the senses while the the drummer’s hi hat work is the cup of coffee that says “it’s time to get the day started”. One of the things I like most about Smooth is that it sets the tone in the beginning and sticks to it throughout the duration of the song.

What this means is that you will not be distracted with random drum fills, key changes, time signature changes, etc. The stability of the track makes it very versatile and can be played while you relax while you study, or wherever else you may require a smooth backdrop. Smooth is a great track for any relaxing playlist.

4. Kendrick Scott Oracle - View From Above​

Number 4 on the list is a change of pace as we move from the non-offensive Smooth Jazz to the very layered and “opinionated” traditional jazz of Kendrick Scott Oracle. View From Above can be described with one word, BEAUTIFUL. It is an aural roller coaster that takes you to exciting new heights at 1:10 and then plunges you down to very thoughtful, expressive, and ominous lows as noticeable at the 2 minute mark.

View From Above is relaxful in a sophisticated and textured manner and may be an acquired taste for some. Unlike the previous two entries on the list, you may not find "View From Above" as versatile. While relaxful, you may find it competing for your focus during work or study, especially in the more expressive moments.

3. Jeanette Harris - Summer Rain ft. Joel Bowers​

Number 3 is a palate cleanser of sorts by bringing us back to the smoother side of Jazz. Summer Rain by Jeanette Harris is the romantic tale of a man who meets the love of his life during inclement weather. It is the perfect relaxing song for the “on the go” type of personality.

It’s quick tempo’d, vibrant and with drums that make you want to get up and two-step. We recommend you listen to this song with a significant other as it evokes feeling of love and romance. Jeanette Harris also has a version of this song without the vocals that pairs well with chocolate cover strawberries. Fellas, let me know how it goes!

2. John Coltrane - My Favorite Things​

Number 2 on the list is by the one, the only, and the magnificent John Coltrane. Much like Number 4 on this list, My Favorite Things is relaxful in a pensive sense. It’s colorful, varied, and driven by amazing piano work and Jazz drumming. In many ways, the piano in My Favorite Things takes listeners on a stroll to meet Mr. Coltrane who then serenades them with his skillful saxophone play.

What is fascinating about this song is how at many points, it’s controlled chaos. Coltrane is going in one direction, the piano is going in another, and it’s all held together by the drummer showing absolute loyalty to the beat. Once again this song is less versatile than others and may not pair well in engagements that require your focus.

1. Norman Brown - Paradise​

Number 1 on our list is by the one of the greatest Smooth Jazz guitarists of all time, Norman Brown. Paradise is appropriately named as the song sounds like a peaceful day at a tropical resort. What makes this track number 1 on our list of relaxing jazz is how expertly crafted it is from start to finish.

What makes this song so special is how Norman shares the lead with a very crisp and brassy muted trumpet. For most of the song the two play in unison but during the third verse they have the coolest back and forth conversation that takes you to…Paradise! We chose this as our number 1 because it gives you the smoothness you desire while staying true to the rhythm that is a signature quality of Black American music.

These 6 Are Just The Beginning of Our Journey into Jazz​

We hope that this list gave you some good options to start off your search for relaxing jazz music. For more options tap into our thread where posters highlight their favor relaxing jazz songs. This is the beginning of a series of content where we will release every monday. Share this article with friends and family and make sure you let us know some of your favorites. For additional information check out our thread.