OL' MAN MOSE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“Ol' Man Mose” was composed by Louis Armstrong and Zilner Randolph in 1927. The tune became popular in the early jazz scene for its storytelling lyrics and upbeat, swinging accompaniment.

Armstrong’s 1927 recording with his Hot Five ensemble in Chicago featured trumpet improvisation, piano, and clarinet, capturing the humorous, engaging character of the song. Its structure is generally AABA, with room for instrumental solos and vocal embellishments.

Subsequent renditions by Cab Calloway and later swing bands helped preserve its popularity, emphasizing playful vocal expression, rhythmic vitality, and Armstrong’s signature melodic inventiveness.