WEARY BLUES - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“weary blues” is a jazz composition by Artie Matthews, first published in 1915. Though called a 'blues,' its structure is closer to multi-strain ragtime than a traditional 12-bar blues.

The earliest known recordings were by the Louisiana Five around 1919. Subsequent performances by the New Orleans Rhythm Kings, Louis Armstrong’s Hot Seven, and Sidney Bechet reinforced its status as a jazz standard.

The piece features a driving ragtime rhythm, contrasting melodic strains, and room for improvisation. It is valued for its energetic and expressive early jazz style.