OLEO - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“Oleo” was composed by Sonny Rollins in 1954 and has become a foundational bebop and hard bop standard. Built on the chord changes of "I Got Rhythm," it exemplifies the 32-bar AABA jazz form adapted for improvisation.

The first recording was by the Miles Davis Quintet in New York, featuring Rollins on tenor saxophone. Its rhythmically driving melody and flexible harmonic structure provide ample room for improvisation.

Subsequent performances by artists such as Lee Konitz, Grant Green, and modern jazz combos highlight the tune’s technical demands and melodic inventiveness. Its upbeat, energetic character makes it a staple in jam sessions and live performance repertoires.