Toots Thielemans composed “Bluesette” in 1962 and made it famous. It became a hit in the jazz world, blending a 24-bar jazz waltz with a Charlie Parker-inspired chord progression.

Learning materials

The harmony moves through connected ii–V–I progressions and temporary key centres before returning to B♭. The opening and descending ii–V movement invite comparison with bebop blues, often called Bird blues.

This song combines a European waltz feel with American jazz harmony.

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