THE SHADOW OF YOUR SMILE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"The Shadow of Your Smile" was composed by Johnny Mandel with lyrics by Paul Francis Webster for the 1965 film "The Sandpiper." The song was introduced in the movie’s soundtrack and quickly gained attention, earning the Academy Award for Best Original Song the following year.

Notable early recordings include versions by Tony Bennett and Astrud Gilberto, both released in 1965 and helping propel the tune into mainstream popularity. Its gentle harmonic movement and graceful melodic arcs lend themselves naturally to ballad interpretation.

The tune soon found a steady place in the jazz repertoire due to its expressive phrasing and adaptable form. Its enduring popularity reflects the song’s combination of cinematic lyricism and a structure that allows for warm, reflective improvisation.