CHINATOWN - Free Jazz Leadsheet
“chinatown,” formally titled “chinatown, my chinatown,” was written in 1910 by Jean Schwartz with lyrics by William Jerome. Early recordings by vaudeville performers and dance orchestras helped the song gain prominence well before the jazz age took full shape.
The tune eventually became a jazz favorite thanks to its lively ragtime-influenced melody and strong rhythmic profile. Its simple harmonic movement allows for playful embellishment, making it a common feature in traditional jazz and Dixieland sets.