Best Jazz Playlist for Your Valentine’s Date

Songs about love and affection dominate almost every genre of music. However, none comes quite as close to the soul, as a sweet jazzy ballad. So, with Valentine’s Day almost a week away, here is a jazz playlist that will help set the mood for that special someone. 

The Look of Love – Dusty Springfield 

Dusty Springfield made a name for herself with a soulful voice and minimalist use of instruments. And this song is Dusty at her best, as her vocals touch your soul the slow drums in the background set the mood for your night perfectly. I chose it first because it’s a great way to start your Valentine’s date. I also covered this song through a medley, mixing in the smooth jazz with a light dash of pop! 

Ella Fitzgerald – Love Is Here to Stay

Let’s face it; this wouldn’t be a playlist of jazz love songs without the queen, Ella Fitzgerald, and her famous song, Love Is Here to Stay. The song starts with a soothing trumpet followed by light drums, which all stop and give way to Ella’s heavenly voice. The song has a nice smooth tone that remains the same throughout the song, making it a great transition from the first song. 

Ben Webster – When I Fall in Love 

Many remember Ben Webster for his masculine and breathy tone that would give a unique tune to his saxophone. But what very few know about Big Ben was that he had a heart for slow ballads. His rendition of Nat King Cole’s “When I Fall in Love” is deep, heartfelt, and shows Ben Webster’s soulful approach to jazz. 

Oscar Peterson – My One and Only Love

Oscar Peterson was no vocalist, not by a long shot. But he was a good pianist. And with his rendition of Robert Mellin and Guy Wood’s most famous song, “My One and Only Love,” he shows that you don’t have to be a vocalist to pass on the song's romantic essence. While many singers like the legendary Frank Sinatra and Rod Stewart have covered this song as well, Oscar Peterson’s piano cover is completely unique. 

Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald - The Nearness of You 

Frank Sinatra is easily one of, if not the best, jazz musician to ever live. Although he didn’t make any love songs of his own, he certainly did team up with Ella Fitzgerald for an amazing duet. The nearness of you carries on from the piano of the previous track, except it was a lot softer. It leads the way for Ella Fitzgerald’s beautiful voice to touch your heart, while Louis Armstrong gives hints of his trumpets in the back. Two minutes into the song, Frank Sinatra’s legendary voice start to come through.  

Valentine’s Day is always special, as you get the chance to show that special someone in your life how much you care. And with this playlist, you are sure to set the mood for a very romantic night.

Be sure to plan your music playlist for the night in advance. Order a copy of my album, "Yesterday Once More," which features my renditions of some of the most romantic songs of all time.

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