How long has this been going on – Free Jazz Lead Sheet
G Major – George and Ira Gershwin 1928
How Long Has This Been Going on by George and Ira Gershwin (1928) is a swing-era jazz standard in G Major. The tune became a favorite for dance orchestras, with its swinging rhythm and accessible melodic lines. The arrangement features the tight rhythmic interplay and Polished ensemble work characteristic of the big band era.
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"how long has this been going on," written by George and Ira Gershwin in 1928, reflects the wonder and surprise of discovering love. Its lyrics explore themes of romantic awakening and intimate reflection.
The first recording was made by Leo Reisman and His Orchestra with vocals in New York, 1928. The song's lyrical phrasing and AABA 32-bar structure provide ample space for interpretive nuance and expressive timing.
Subsequent recordings by artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan highlighted its versatility, demonstrating how the melody accommodates both swing arrangements and slower, more introspective interpretations.
About the composer: George and Ira Gershwin
George Gershwin (1898–1937) was a renowned American composer and lyricist, best known for his work on the 1927 musical *Funny Face*, including the song "How Long Has This Been Going On."
