GEORGIA ON MY MIND - Free Jazz Leadsheet

georgia on my mind was composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Stuart Gorrell in 1930. It became widely known for its melodic warmth and lyrical expression, blending elements of jazz, blues, and popular song forms.

The first notable recording was by Hoagy Carmichael himself in New York City in 1930, capturing the song’s tender, reflective character. Structurally, it follows a 32-bar AABA form with flowing melodic lines that emphasize emotional nuance.

Ray Charles’ 1960 recording later popularized the song to a broader audience, cementing it as a standard. Lyrically, the song conveys nostalgia and longing for the American South, offering performers an opportunity for expressive interpretation.