FORTY AND TIGHT - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"forty and tight" was composed by Count Basie in the late 1930s as a short, energetic swing tune. Its concise melodic phrases and strong rhythmic pulse make it ideal for set openers or transitions.

First recorded by Basie’s orchestra, the tune emphasizes riff-based ensemble sections and offers space for solo improvisation. Its straightforward form makes it a natural crowd-pleaser.

The piece continues to be performed in both small-group and big-band contexts.