WHAT AM I HERE FOR - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“what am i here for” is a jazz composition by Duke Ellington, written in 1942. Though originally instrumental, lyrics were later added by Frankie Laine, adding a reflective emotional dimension to the piece.

The first recording was made by Ellington’s orchestra in 1942, though it was released a bit later in 1944 on RCA Victor. Over time, the tune has been interpreted by a number of jazz musicians, including Ben Webster, Marian McPartland, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and others.

Lyrically, the song poses a question of purpose and belonging, asking why one is present in life and what role they play in a larger moral or spiritual sense. On the musical side, it’s typically performed at a moderate tempo, featuring Ellington’s signature harmonic sophistication, smooth melodic lines, and room for soulful solos.