MOANIN' - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“Moanin’” is a landmark hard bop composition written by pianist Bobby Timmons and first recorded in 1958 by Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers. Built around a soulful, blues-driven call-and-response theme, the tune draws heavily from gospel and church music, giving it an earthy, deeply expressive character that immediately resonated with audiences.

The original recording features Art Blakey on drums, Lee Morgan on trumpet, Benny Golson on tenor saxophone, Jymie Merritt on bass, and Timmons on piano. Its memorable opening riff, powerful backbeat, and driving swing feel showcase the band’s tight ensemble playing while leaving ample space for fiery improvisation.

As the title track of one of Blue Note’s most iconic albums, “Moanin’” helped define the sound of late-1950s hard bop. Frequently performed and widely recorded ever since, it remains a jazz standard, prized for its accessibility, emotional depth, and enduring influence on modern jazz repertoire.