BORN TO BE BLUE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"Born to Be Blue" is a jazz ballad composed by Mel Tormé with lyrics by Robert Wells in 1946, appreciated for its lyrical melancholy and expressive phrasing. It has been performed extensively in both vocal and instrumental formats.

Early recordings highlighted the song's emotional depth, with gentle swing rhythms supporting melodic improvisation. Later renditions have emphasized its narrative and reflective qualities.

The piece conveys themes of longing and introspection. Musically, it features smooth melodic lines over a moderate tempo, providing space for expressive interpretation.