Ida sweet as apple cider – Free Jazz Lead Sheet
Eb Major – Eddie Leonard 1916
Ida Sweet As Apple Cider by Eddie Leonard (1903) is a swing-era jazz standard in Eb Major. Its swinging rhythm and melodic inventiveness make it a highlight of the swing repertoire. Eddie Leonard was a film whose contributions helped define the sound of the swing era. The arrangement features the tight rhythmic interplay and Polished ensemble work characteristic of the big band era.
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Support the projectAbout this song:
Written by Eddie Leonard in 1903, 'ida sweet as apple cider' is an early 20th-century popular song with a lively, playful melody. Its humorous lyrics and simple structure made it a favorite in vaudeville performances and early recordings.
The first recording was by Billy Murray in New York in 1904, capturing the song’s cheerful and accessible character. Later revivals by jazz bands and vocalists during the 1920s and 1930s showcased its versatility in swing and jazz arrangements.
The lyrics depict humorous romantic affection, while the music uses a simple verse-chorus structure with accessible harmonies, providing performers freedom to add rhythmic flair and expressive delivery.
About the composer: Eddie Leonard
Eddie Leonard (1870–1941) was a prominent American minstrel and vaudeville performer known for his ragtime style and songs like 'Ida, Sweet As Apple Cider'. He was a key figure in early 20th-century entertainment, contributing to the minstrel tradition and leaving a lasting impact on American cultural history.
