27 Best Songs Featuring Saxophone: A Soulful Playlist

The saxophone's sultry wail and vibrant tone have graced countless iconic tracks, weaving themselves into the fabric of popular music history. This isn't just a list of songs; it's a journey through the emotional range and technical brilliance the saxophone offers. From soulful ballads that tug at the heartstrings to upbeat tunes that ignite the dance floor, the instrument's versatility is unparalleled. We're celebrating the enduring power of the saxophone by showcasing a collection of songs that exemplify its expressive capabilities, highlighting the artistry behind those unforgettable melodies and rhythms. Think of the smooth, almost whispered intimacy of some tracks, the raw power and emotion in others – a truly remarkable spectrum of musical expression.

This curated list aims to introduce both seasoned music lovers and new listeners to the magic of the saxophone, showcasing its impact across diverse genres. Whether you're familiar with the iconic sounds of soul divas or the more modern soundscapes of electronic music, this collection promises a diverse and unforgettable listening experience. Prepare to be captivated by the haunting beauty and irresistible groove of some of music's most beloved saxophone-driven tracks, a testament to the instrument's enduring appeal and its ability to transcend generations. You'll rediscover old favorites and discover new gems, each demonstrating the saxophone's extraordinary ability to evoke emotion and create lasting musical memories.

  • Thrift Shop
    1

    Thrift Shop

    Macklemore & Ryan Lewis,Macklemore,Ryan Lewis,Wanz

    2013

    The Heist

  • I Will Always Love You
    2

    I Will Always Love You

    Whitney Houston

    1993

    The Bodyguard - Original Soundtrack Album

  • Careless Whisper
    3

    Careless Whisper

    George Michael

    1984

  • Midnight City
    4

    Midnight City

    M83

    2011

    Hurry Up, We're Dreaming

  • Rivers of Babylon
    5

    Rivers of Babylon

    Boney M.

    1978

  • Superstition
    6

    Superstition

    Stevie Wonder

    1972

    Talking Book

  • Smooth Operator
    7

    Smooth Operator

    Sade

    1984

  • Super Trouper
    8

    Super Trouper

    ABBA

    1980

  • Take Five
    9

    Take Five

    Dave Brubeck Quartet

    1959

  • Born to Run
    10

    Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen

    1975

    Born To Run

  • The Girl From Ipanema
    11

    The Girl From Ipanema

    Frank Sinatra,Antônio Carlos Jobim

    1963

    Sinatra/Jobim: The Complete Reprise Recordings

  • Urgent
    12

    Urgent

    Foreigner

    1981

    4 (Expanded)

  • Baker Street
    13

    Baker Street

    Gerry Rafferty

    1978

    City to City

  • Ain't No Sunshine
    14

    Ain't No Sunshine

    Bill Withers

    1971

    Just As I Am

  • Moanin'
    15

    Moanin'

    Charles Mingus

    1959

  • Strawberry Letter 23
    16

    Strawberry Letter 23

    The Brothers Johnson

    1977

    Right On Time

  • Breezin'
    17

    Breezin'

    George Benson

    1976

  • Moondance
    18

    Moondance

    Van Morrison

    1970

  • Brown Sugar
    19

    Brown Sugar

    The Rolling Stones

    1971

    Sticky Fingers (Remastered)

  • Young Americans
    20

    Young Americans

    David Bowie

    1975

    Young Americans (2016 Remaster)

  • Soul Bossa Nova
    21

    Soul Bossa Nova

    Quincy Jones

    1962

  • Back in Time
    22

    Back in Time

    Huey Lewis and the News

    1985

  • The Pink Panther Theme
    23

    The Pink Panther Theme

    Henry Mancini

    1963

  • Misty
    24

    Misty

    Johnny Mathis

    1959

  • Watermelon Man
    25

    Watermelon Man

    Herbie Hancock

    1962

  • Donna Lee
    26

    Donna Lee

    Charlie Parker

    1947

  • Satin Doll
    27

    Satin Doll

    Duke Ellington

    1953

    Jazz Profile: Duke Ellington