Jazz lead sheet · Beginner
C Jam Blues
A two-note riff blues by Duke Ellington: three chords that everyone can join.
- Composer
- Duke Ellington
- Form
- 12-bar blues
- Key
- C major
- Style
- Blues
- Length
- 12 bars
BluesC major
I7C Mixolydian
IV7F Mixolydian
I7C Mixolydian
I7C Mixolydian
IV7F Mixolydian
IV7F Mixolydian
I7C Mixolydian
I7C Mixolydian
V7G Mixolydian
IV7F Mixolydian
I7C Mixolydian
V7G Mixolydian
For students
What to notice
- Only I7, IV7 and V7 (C7, F7, G7) appear; the interest is in the rhythm and phrasing.
- Because the changes are so plain, it is the ideal tune for a first solo and for counting form.
- The V chord (G7) arrives in bar 9, the classic turning point of the blues.
Practice plan
Three steps to improvising
- Count the 12 bars out loud while the backing plays.
- Play the riff on the roots, then on the 3rds and 7ths.
- Improvise with the C blues scale and trade two-bar phrases with a partner.
For teachers
Using this chart in class
- Project the chart with Play along running and loop one section while students find the guide tones.
- Choose Practice → Name the numerals for a whole-class quiz: students vote, then reveal the explanation.
- Mixed ensemble? Print the worksheet once per transposition: B♭, E♭, F and bass clef parts all line up bar for bar.
- Share a link: the key, instrument and view you choose are saved in the address bar.
Chord changes are common performance versions written out by Music Theory Lessons. No melodies or lyrics are reproduced. Names of songs and composers are used only to identify each tune.