Blue Lou

"Blue Lou" is a swing jazz composition written by Edgar Sampson, often associated with the big band era. The piece is typically an instrumental, known for its catchy melody, bluesy inflections, and up-tempo rhythm. It is a standard in the swing repertoire and has been performed and recorded by numerous artists throughout the years. Sampson, a multi-instrumentalist and arranger, was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance and contributed significantly to the sound of swing music. "Blue Lou" exemplifies his talent for crafting memorable and danceable tunes. The song's structure usually follows a 32-bar AABA form, common in many popular songs of the period. It features opportunities for improvisation, allowing soloists to showcase their skills within the framework of Sampson's original arrangement.