THAT RHYTHM MAN - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"That Rhythm Man" was written by J. Russel Robinson and Roy Turk and published in 1928. The earliest notable recording was made on December 12, 1929, by Louis Armstrong and His Savoy Ballroom Five in New York, featuring Armstrong’s charismatic vocals and trumpet work.

The song has reappeared in traditional jazz revivals, its humorous lyrics describing a musician whose infectious rhythm captivates listeners. Musically, it features a lively 32-bar format with bluesy inflections and playful phrasing typical of Armstrong’s small-group sessions of the late 1920s. The tune’s upbeat character and rhythmic bounce continue to make it a favorite among early jazz enthusiasts.