BACK IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"Back in Your Own Backyard" was written in 1928 by Al Jolson, Billy Rose, and Dave Dreyer. The song carries a timeless message: that happiness and fulfillment are often found close to home, not in faraway pursuits. Its optimistic lyrics and gentle swing feel have made it a staple in both jazz and popular repertoires.

The first recording was made by Al Jolson himself in 1928, released on Brunswick Records. Jolson’s version captured the sentimentality and warmth that later performers would emulate. Notable interpretations include those by Billie Holiday in 1938 and Peggy Lee in the 1950s, each bringing personal inflection and phrasing to the melody.

Musically, the song follows a 32-bar AABA form typical of the Great American Songbook. Its melody flows naturally with conversational phrasing, making it ideal for vocalists and instrumentalists who favor lyrical improvisation. The tune remains a favorite for its blend of sincerity, swing, and subtle sophistication.