BEAUTIFUL LOVE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"Beautiful Love" was written in 1931 by Wayne King, Victor Young, Egbert Van Alstyne, and Haven Gillespie. First introduced in the film King of Jazz, the song quickly entered the jazz and pop standards repertoire for its haunting melody and rich harmonic design.

The first notable recording came in 1931 by Wayne King and His Orchestra, followed soon after by versions from Bing Crosby and The Casa Loma Orchestra. Later renditions by Bill Evans, Tony Bennett, and Chet Baker showcased its versatility across ballad and medium swing tempos.

Structured in a 32-bar AABA form, the tune’s harmonic movement offers both tension and resolution, inviting expressive improvisation. The lyrics evoke romantic yearning and idealized beauty, making it a favorite for both vocalists and instrumentalists. Its timeless quality continues to inspire reinterpretation in modern jazz settings.