I GOTTA RIGHT TO SING THE BLUES - Free Jazz Leadsheet

Composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by Ted Koehler in 1932, "i gotta right to sing the blues" combines melancholy with elegance, expressing personal grief and resilience. Its lyrics articulate sorrow tempered by dignity and reflection.

The first recording, by Ethel Waters in New York, 1932, featured expressive phrasing and deep emotional resonance. Its 32-bar structure allows performers to explore melodic interpretation and dynamic contrast.

Later vocal and instrumental renditions highlighted both its harmonic sophistication and emotional depth, making it a lasting jazz standard.