"What is This Thing Called Love?" is a timeless jazz standard, captivating audiences for generations with its melancholic melody and sophisticated harmonic structure. This iconic tune, composed by Cole Porter in 1929, has become a staple in the jazz repertoire, inspiring countless interpretations by renowned musicians. This guide will delve into the song's history, musical characteristics, and its enduring appeal, providing everything you need to understand this beloved lead sheet.
What Makes "What is This Thing Called Love?" Unique?
The song's enduring popularity stems from several key factors. First, the melody is instantly memorable and emotionally resonant. It's a beautifully crafted tune that effortlessly blends melancholy and longing. Second, Porter's masterful harmonic progression creates a sophisticated and intriguing soundscape. The use of unexpected chord changes and chromaticism adds depth and complexity, making it a rewarding experience for both performers and listeners. Third, the lyrical content is both universal and deeply personal, exploring the complex and often confusing nature of romantic love. This relatable theme resonates with audiences across decades and cultural backgrounds.
What Key is the Lead Sheet Usually in?
While arrangements vary, you'll commonly find "What is This Thing Called Love?" lead sheets in C minor. However, the song's sophisticated harmony lends itself well to transposition, making it adaptable to different keys and vocal ranges. Many jazz musicians choose a key based on the instrument's capabilities or the overall feel they want to create.
What are the Main Chords in the Lead Sheet?
The core harmony of "What is This Thing Called Love?" centers around the C minor scale. Expect to see common chords like Cm, F7, Bbmaj7, Ebmaj7, Abmaj7, and G7, although variations and substitutions are frequent in jazz interpretations. The beauty lies in the interplay between these chords and the unexpected chromatic movement that characterizes the song's harmonic language. These sophisticated harmonic shifts are what make the song so compelling for skilled musicians.
What are Some Common Variations and Improvisational Approaches?
Jazz musicians have explored countless improvisational approaches to "What is This Thing Called Love?" Because of the song's complex chord structure, it provides a fertile ground for exploring various melodic and harmonic ideas. Common variations include:
- Altered dominants: Jazz musicians often replace the standard dominant chords with altered dominants, adding chromatic notes to create a more dissonant and exciting sound.
- Passing chords: Adding passing chords between the main chords can enhance the harmonic richness and create a more fluid transition between sections.
- Modal interchange: Borrowing chords from parallel modes (e.g., using chords from the parallel major or Dorian mode) can add a unique color and character to the improvisation.
Where Can I Find a Lead Sheet for "What is This Thing Called Love?"?
Numerous resources offer lead sheets for "What is This Thing Called Love." Many online music stores and websites dedicated to jazz standards will have the song available in various arrangements. You may also find it in collections of Cole Porter's works.
Conclusion
"What is This Thing Called Love?" remains a cornerstone of the jazz repertoire due to its captivating melody, intricate harmonic structure, and universally appealing lyrical themes. The lead sheet provides a springboard for countless creative interpretations, allowing musicians to express their individual styles and explore the depths of this timeless classic. Whether you're a seasoned jazz musician or a budding enthusiast, understanding the song's musical nuances will undoubtedly enrich your appreciation and enjoyment of this enduring masterpiece.
