NIGHT AND DAY - Free Jazz Leadsheet
“Night and Day” was composed by Cole Porter in 1932 for the musical "Gay Divorce." The song quickly became a popular and jazz standard thanks to its sophisticated harmonic structure and memorable melody.
The first recording was performed by Fred Astaire in 1932, showcasing Porter's characteristic rhythmic complexity and lyric wit. The song follows a 32-bar AABA form with chromatic passing chords, providing fertile ground for instrumental improvisation.
Notable subsequent recordings include those by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Charlie Parker. The lyrics express enduring love and longing, making it both a romantic ballad and an enduring jazz vehicle for interpretation.