I'LL GET BY - Free Jazz Leadsheet

Composed by Fred E. Ahlert with lyrics by Roy Turk in 1928, "i'll get by" was first recorded by Ruth Etting. Its theme of resilience in love and its straightforward melodic line quickly made it a popular standard in both jazz and pop contexts.

The lyrics express hope and perseverance after romantic loss, matched with a simple but memorable melody. Its musical structure allows clear phrasing and offers room for improvisational interpretation.

Later recordings by Billie Holiday, Harry James, and contemporary jazz artists helped ensure its continued presence in performance repertoires, celebrated for its emotional accessibility.