THE CURSE OF AN ACHING HEART - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"The Curse of an Aching Heart" was composed by Al Piantadosi with lyrics by Henry Fink, published in 1913. The first recording appeared the same year by the American Quartet in New York, helping the song become a popular sentimental hit of the pre-jazz era.

The tune later resurfaced in recordings by Fats Waller and cabaret singers who favored its melodramatic portrayal of heartbreak. Musically, it follows an early Tin Pan Alley ballad form with expressive melodic leaps and a verse-chorus structure. Its nostalgic emotional style continues to attract performers interested in early American popular song.