Old Forks

“Old Folks” is a jazz standard composed by Willard Robison and first introduced in 1938. Over time, it has become a beloved piece in the jazz repertoire, performed by many jazz musicians. The lyrics, written by Dedette Lee Hill, express understanding and compassion for the elderly.

Known as a medium-tempo ballad, the song is popular among jazz musicians for its delicate and tranquil atmosphere. It follows a typical AABA structure, featuring a lyrical melody and a simple harmonic progression. The song provides a platform for the lead musician to showcase their expressive abilities.

Understanding and conveying the song’s lyrical qualities and emotional depth is essential. The slow tempo and gentle dynamics should be used to enhance the song’s atmosphere. In the solo section, it’s important to capture the nuances of emotion naturally, without overemphasizing them. The rhythm section should maintain the slow tempo and soft ambiance, while interacting with the lead musician to add subtle texture to the piece.