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Louis Armstrong once said, "If you have to ask what jazz is, you'll never know," and the man was right. Getting to know jazz is much more about listening and experiencing than defining the genre and all its subgenres. These 20 jazz albums were handpicked from only the very best to get you get acquainted to jazz. From classic to acid, and avant garde to Latin, it's all here!

Handful of Keys by is considered an . Waller is a forerunner of modern jazz, writing some of the most famous jazz standards of all time. is a compendium of his best live performances.

, a renowned musician and bandleader, is considered one of the fathers of modern jazz and is always . His talented band accompanied the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Sarah Vaughan. offers a glimpse of the master at work.

was the first of three albums that beautifully merged the vocal charms of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. This offers gorgeous ballads sung by two of the most influential jazz artists and vocalists of all time.

is considered Miles Davis' masterpiece, and it is one of the l and of all time. This album, is rich in melodious improvisation and a delightful testament of musical genius at work.

by John Coltrane is one of the ever, and it is also considered Coltrane's masterpiece. delivers a taste of avant garde and free jazz while remaining melodious and highly enjoyable.

by Duke Ellington was recorded live at the . Ellington's band played a combination of old and new with a touch of improvisation that drove the crowd wild, earning this performance a place in every

by Thelonious Monk was the first album to include his compositions. It considered the epitome of modern jazz and in any jazz collection. complex compositions are a testament of Monk's genius.

is considered one of the of all time. Stan Getz, Joao Gilberto, and Antonio Carlos Jobim concocted a delightful album that perfectly combined jazz and bossa nova. This album was both critically acclaimed and a commercial success.

Sarah Vaughan is considered one of the of all time. In , she offers wonderful renditions of Henry Mancini's fabulous compositions. It's a treat for the ears and the soul.

has had a prolific music career writing unforgettable film scores. by Henry Mancini is a timeless Grammy award-winning score that offers orchestra jazz at its finest.

offers the very best of neo classic jazz with revisiting the greatest jazz standards of all time. This offers magnificent execution and very enjoyable way to get acquainted with jazz.

Grammy award winner is one of the very best contemporary jazz vocalists. With , the songstress has created a truly riveting homage to Billie Holiday.

has won multiple Grammy awards for his fabulous vocal jazz renditions. McFerrin's music is a must for those interested in contemporary vocal jazz. Try Grammy award-winning , or the to get started.

Although avant garde or free jazz might not be for everyone, if you want a taste, try the best. by Eric Dolphy is widely acclaimed as the best in this subgenre. Included in all kinds of , Out to Lunch! showcases great musical dexterity and unparalleled creative genius.

is also hailed as albums of free jazz. Pushing boundaries in all aspects, this album was recorded by two quartets improvising for more than 40 minutes. It's a first in history.

Tito Puente, also known as "The King of Latin Music" and "The Musical Pope," had a successful career spanning over 50 years composing and playing and music. is considered one of Latin jazz .

vast work is rich in Latin and Afro-Cuban flavor. He is considered one of the most successful non-latino, Latin musician. His is an all time , ideal for adding a little spice to your jazz collection.

has played with greats like Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff. His and significative musical career has earned him an accolade of awards. by Ernest Ranglin offers flavourful reggae jazz with a touch of rhythm and blues.

by Jaga Jazzist is future jazz party for the ears. Offering a fusion of progressive rock with jazz, this album is constantly . It is an album rich in flavors, that while innovative, maintains a strong jazz identity.

Although Jamiroquai may be more recently known for funky disco beats, their first few albums were decidedly . Their album tops the best in . Just one listen, and it's clear to see why: it features cool acid jazz beats with fabulous funk flavors.

The jazz albums listed here offer a comprehensive journey from the beginnings of jazz to the most current exponents, with ample variety, and all top ranking among jazz enthusiasts. If you want to know more about jazz, take the time and offer them a listen. You might end up with a favorite album... or two!