Makin' whoopee – Free Jazz Lead Sheet
F Major – Walter Donaldson 1928
Makin Whoopee by Walter Donaldson (1928) is a swing-era jazz standard in F Major. Its swinging rhythm and melodic inventiveness make it a highlight of the swing repertoire. Walter Donaldson was a composer and songwriter whose contributions helped define the sound of the swing era. The arrangement features the tight rhythmic interplay and Polished ensemble work characteristic of the big band era.
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“Makin' Whoopee,” composed by Walter Donaldson with lyrics by Gus Kahn in 1928, is a jazz and pop standard known for its playful treatment of marriage and domestic life. It mixes humor with a swinging, rhythmic charm.
The first recordings were made by Eddie Cantor, and the tune has been adapted by numerous jazz vocalists and instrumentalists. Its 32-bar AABA form and syncopated melody make it a versatile piece for both comedic performance and instrumental improvisation.
About the composer: Walter Donaldson
Walter Donaldson (1893–1947) was an American songwriter who significantly influenced early 20th-century music. His most notable works, "The Blue Room" (1926) and "The Gypsy" (1927), are celebrated for their lyrical storytelling and melodic innovation, shaping the sound of the era.
