Song of the islands – Free Jazz Lead Sheet
F Major – Charles E. King 1915
Song of the Islands by Charles Edward King (1915) is a romantic jazz standard in F Major. Its elegant melody and nostalgic character make it suitable for both intimate and orchestral jazz settings. The composer crafted a melody that captures the essence of romantic sentiment in early twentieth-century music. The tune's lyrical phrasing and warm harmonic movement continue to inspire jazz vocalists and instrumentalists.
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Support the projectAbout this song:
song of the islands, composed by Charles E. King in 1915, is a tropical-themed song inspired by Hawaiian melodies. Its lilting melody and gentle rhythms have made it a favorite in both popular and jazz arrangements, conveying a sense of serenity and escapism.
The earliest recording was by Helen Clark in 1915, capturing the song’s relaxed, lyrical style. Later versions by artists such as Bing Crosby and jazz instrumentalists further popularized the tune in different musical contexts.
The lyrics describe idyllic island life and romantic imagery, while the music typically employs a simple verse-chorus structure with flowing, melodic lines conducive to improvisation and harmonic elaboration.
About the composer: Charles E. King
Charles Edward King (1874–1950) was a Hawaiian-born American composer and educator renowned for his contributions to Hawaiian music, particularly his song "Ke Kali Nei Au," now known as the Hawaiian Wedding Song.
