BEGIN THE BEGUINE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"Begin the Beguine" was composed by Cole Porter in 1935 while traveling through the South Pacific. The song takes its title from the Beguine, a dance similar to the rumba that originated in the Caribbean. It was introduced in the Broadway musical *Jubilee* the same year and first recorded by Xavier Cugat’s orchestra. However, it achieved massive popularity in 1938 when Artie Shaw released his iconic swing arrangement, which became one of the best-selling records of the era.

Musically, the song departs from the standard 32-bar form, instead featuring an unusually long 108-bar structure that blends Latin rhythm with American popular harmony. Its lyrics evoke a nostalgic longing for romance rekindled through dance, expressed with Porter’s signature sophistication and wordplay. The combination of exotic rhythm, lush melody, and emotional restraint made it a favorite for both singers and instrumentalists across genres.