OPEN THE DOOR RICHARD - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“Open the Door, Richard” was written in 1947 by Count Basie, Dusty Fletcher, and others, originating as a comic vaudeville song and becoming a jazz hit.

Fletcher’s stage performance introduced the character and humorous lyrics. Jazz orchestras adapted the tune, emphasizing swing rhythms and call-and-response sections, making it popular for improvisation.

Its 32-bar structure and comedic phrasing allowed musicians to inject creativity while preserving its playful character.