Sugar Blues (song)

"Sugar Blues" is a song written by Clarence Williams and Lucy Fletcher. It is a jazz and blues standard, known for its distinctive opening trombone solo and its melancholy lyrics about heartbreak and longing.

The song was first published in 1919 and popularized by many artists throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. Notable early recordings include versions by Bessie Smith and Fletcher Henderson's Orchestra. Clyde McCoy's instrumental version in 1935 became particularly well-known and is often considered the definitive recording of the tune, frequently used in commercials and popular culture.

The melody is relatively simple, contributing to its widespread appeal and ease of adaptation across various musical styles. While typically performed as an instrumental, vocal versions of "Sugar Blues" often express themes of sadness, loss, and the bitter aftertaste of a failed romance, using the "sugar" metaphor to symbolize something initially sweet that turns sour. The song's lasting popularity lies in its instantly recognizable melody and its evocative expression of universal human emotions.