Who composed Charleston?

Charleston was composed by James P. Johnson in 1923.

When was Charleston composed?

Charleston was composed in 1923 by James P. Johnson.

Is the Charleston lead sheet free to view?

This jazz lead sheet can be viewed online for free for study, performance practice, and educational use.

In which key is Charleston?

The lead sheet for Charleston is in the key of Bb Major.

Charleston – Free Jazz Lead Sheet

Q: What jazz tunes are similar to Charleston?

Jazz tunes similar to Charleston include: If I Could Be With You, Angry, Ballin The Jack, Billie Boy, Breezin Along With The Breeze, Casey Jones, Chloe, Come On And Stomp, Darling Nelly Gray, Davenport Blues. These are often performed as part of the same jazz repertoire and study collections.

Bb Major – James P. Johnson 1923

Charleston by James Price Johnson (1923) is a lively jazz composition in Bb Major. The tune's energetic character and rhythmic vitality make it ideal for dance bands and small combo performances. James Price Johnson brought a dynamic energy to this piece, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the jazz age. The arrangement features driving rhythms and spirited ensemble work that capture the excitement of early jazz.

Free Jazz Leadsheet for charleston, Bb Major ,courtesy of The Jungle Jazz Band

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About this song:

Charleston, composed in 1923 by James P. Johnson with lyrics by Cecil Mack, became one of the defining tunes of the Jazz Age. This free online lead sheet features its iconic syncopated rhythm, driving riff, and energetic structure, perfect for traditional jazz bands and lively ensemble performance.

View this lead sheet online to capture its unmistakable groove, rhythmic accents, and improvisational potential.

About the composer: James P. Johnson

James Price Johnson (1894–1955) was an American pianist and composer, a pioneer of stride piano and a key figure in the transition from ragtime to jazz. His early recordings, including "The Charleston," helped shape the early jazz piano sound.

Musical strucutre and form

Performed as an AABA form, leading in with the verse. This song is emblematic of the rhythm which gave birth to the famous Charleston dance.

You might also like:

→ If i could be with you
→ Angry
→ Ballin the jack
→ Billie boy
→ Breezin along with the breeze
→ Casey jones
→ Chloe
→ Come on and stomp
→ Darling nelly gray
→ Davenport blues

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