WHEN MY SUGAR WALKS DOWN THE STREET - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“when my sugar walks down the street” was composed by Gene Austin, Jimmy McHugh, and Irving Mills in 1924. It became a hit in the early jazz age and has been embraced by both popular and jazz musicians.

Early recordings were made by dance bands and novelty performers, but the tune was also taken up by jazz groups during the swing era. Its evolution into a jazz standard saw numerous instrumental and vocal versions over the decades, though pinpointing the absolute first jazz take is challenging.

The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, describing the delight of watching a loved one pass by. Musically, the song has a catchy, marching‑swing feel, with a strong melody and harmony suited to both big-band and small-combo improvisation.