Walter Donaldson

Makin' Whoopee

A great timeless jazz standard, arranged in an easy (Grade 2,5) relaxed swing style for flexible instrumentation, playable by a clean or mixed quintet, or a complete brass/concert band.
Additional parts for piano/keyboard and bass guitar (with chords).

Makin' Whoopee was first introduced in the comedy musical Whoopee! on Broadway in 1928.
The American songwriters Donaldson and Kahn were known for their catchy tunes and clever lyrics, and Makin’ Whoopee was no exception. It became an instant hit.
The light-hearted lyrics of the song has been called an ironic "warning" to men about the "trap" or consequences of marriage. The phrase "makin' whoopee" probably comes from African American slang.
Since its first release, the song has never gone out of style as it has been constantly covered by leading artists, including Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Dinah Washington, Ella Fitzgerald, Marlene Dietrich, Nat King Cole, Rod Stewart and Elton John.

A "good and old" jazz standard in a brand new arrangement for both young and older musicians!