The 10 Sexiest Jazz Songs to Spice Up Your Date

I’ve been a jazz singer since my twenties, with torch songs and ballads among my favourite songs to perform. Most of my relatives on my mother’s side are musicians—it’s even rumoured that the american saxophonist Stan Getz is a distant cousin!

My mother sang on the radio as a child, and I grew up surrounded by the sounds of jazz legends like Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Anita O’Day. When I hit my twenties, I ran an underground jazz dance club for three years on Euston Road, in London, where I expanded my repertoire to include the likes of Betty Carter, Mark Murphy, and Julie London.

Although, over the last five years, I’ve carved out a niche performing dirty blues songs laden with sexual innuendo, I’ll never be able to resist songs that speak of love—whether it’s lost or newly found.

The Top Ten Jazz Playlist To Help You Set The Mood

There’s nothing like a jazz standard to express emotions that tell your loved one exactly how you feel. Whether it’s a sultry number like Angel Eyes by Frank Sinatra or the more upbeat Fly Me to the Moon sung by Ella Fitzgerald, jazz has a way of saying it all.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, here’s my top ten jazz playlist to help you set the mood for a sizzling start to the day.

• My Funny Valentine – Chet Baker

This song has been covered by every household name, from Sinatra to Seal, but for me, it’s Chet Baker’s mournful and soothing version that hits the spot every time. If you’re waking up with your loved one this Valentine’s Day, this is the song I’d start with. Its lulling melody will send you straight back into your lover’s arms.

• Alone Too Long – Mark Murphy

I discovered this gem while performing a show about lyricist Dorothy Fields, who also wrote classics like The Way You Look Tonight and On the Sunny Side of the Street. This tender, sweet ballad is perfect for anyone who’s been out of a relationship for a while and is now seeking reassurance from a new partner. Mark Murphy’s vulnerability in this version is simply captivating.

• I Can’t Give You Anything but Love – Diana Krall

I love Diana Krall’s upbeat take on this classic, performed alongside guitarist Russell Malone. Written in 1928, this song feels entirely modern in her hands. The lyrics, penned by Dorothy Fields, were inspired when Fields overheard a couple window-shopping at Tiffany’s. Upon gazing at the dazzling jewellery, the man turned to his partner and said, “I can’t give you anything but love.” If you’re in a relationship where finances are tight, this playful tune is just the ticket.

• Blue Moon – Billie Holiday

No list of romantic jazz songs is complete without Billie Holiday, affectionately known as Lady Day. This classic holds a special place in my heart—it was sung at my parents’ wedding, and five years ago, I performed it at their 60th anniversary celebration. It’s the perfect song for falling in love, especially if you thought love had passed you by.

• Ain’t Misbehavin’ – Fats Waller

The original and still the best, Fats Waller’s version from the film Stormy Weather is pure magic. Together with his main writing partner Andy Razaf, they created this timeless classic which I have incorporated into my own musical repertoire as it’s guaranteed to have members of the audience singing along. With his cheeky charm, Fats sings, “…saving my love for you. And you. And you. And you.” It’s playful, flirty, and utterly irresistible.

• It Had to Be You – Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s phrasing on this song is impeccable—it always feels like he’s speaking directly to me. The simple yet elegant piano backing by Ralph Sharon enhances the intimacy of this classic tune, which celebrates finding that one special person who “could make me be true, could make me be blue.” If you want to tell your partner just how much they mean to you this Valentine’s Day, this song is the perfect choice.

• Satin Doll – Joe Williams

Joe Williams delivers a swinging, alternative version of this classic that’s as sexy as it gets, complete with an unexpected scat solo by this blues legend. Packed with the playful slang of its 1953 origins, the song exudes a cool, retro vibe that never fails to make me want to get up and dance. I adore the flirtatious lyrics and Joe Williams’ laid-back delivery—it’s a super cool, sultry melody that’s perfect for grabbing your partner’s hand and twirling the night away!

• Our Love Is Here to Stay – Frank Sinatra

From Frank Sinatra’s iconic album Songs for Swingin’ Lovers, this timeless tune is perfect for those in long-term relationships. With lyrics like “The Rockies may crumble, Gibraltar may tumble… our love is here to stay,” it’s a heartfelt declaration of enduring love. Frank’s effortless delivery and the swinging arrangement make it perfect for a cosy Valentine’s evening at home. Picture yourself in a baby doll negligee, holding a martini, and letting Sinatra’s smooth voice set the mood for a romantic night in.

• Night and Day – Ella Fitzgerald

No playlist of the sexiest songs for Valentine’s Day would be complete without a track by Ella Fitzgerald. This version, from her iconic Cole Porter Songbook, perfectly captures the energy of a first date—when your mind is consumed with thoughts of a new partner and the irresistible longing to be with them all the time. If you’ve recently started a relationship and find yourself overwhelmed by desire and yearning for that special someone, this song will resonate with every beat of your heart.

• You’re my Thrill – Joni Mitchell

There are so many more sexy songs I could have chosen, but this haunting version of You’re My Thrill by Joni Mitchell holds a special place in my heart. Recorded when she was 56, Joni’s interpretation feels deeply moving and prescient. With its lush orchestral backing, this song of longing and desire takes on a profound emotional depth in her voice, reminding us that when it comes to love, it’s never too late to be swept away by unfamiliar and exhilarating feelings.

Like this post? Support Us or Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox!