SQUATTY ROO - Free Jazz Leadsheet

squatty roo, composed by Johnny Hodges in 1942, is an upbeat swing instrumental featuring playful riffs and blues-infused melody lines. The piece highlights Hodges’ virtuosity on alto saxophone and his signature lyrical phrasing within a swinging ensemble context.

The first recording was made by Johnny Hodges and His Orchestra in New York, showcasing lively ensemble interplay and rhythmic drive. Subsequent renditions by Duke Ellington and other jazz bands reinforced its popularity as a high-energy jazz standard.

Musically, squatty roo employs 12-bar blues form with repeated riff motifs, syncopation, and space for improvisation, reflecting the exuberant and danceable qualities of swing-era jazz.