I WONDER - Free Jazz Leadsheet
Composed by Cecil Gant in 1944, "i wonder" was first recorded by Gant himself and quickly became popular for its reflective lyrics and soulful melody. The song bridges blues and jazz traditions, appealing to both vocalists and instrumentalists.
The lyrics explore introspection and emotional questioning in love, delivered with expressive phrasing. Harmonically, it uses subtle chord changes that support melodic improvisation and nuanced vocal interpretation.
Subsequent recordings by Sarah Vaughan, Nat King Cole, and other jazz artists have helped preserve its contemplative character, making it a lasting standard.