Exactly like you

Exactly Like You is a classic American standard composed by Jimmy McHugh with lyrics by Dorothy Fields. Written in 1930, the song was introduced in the Broadway revue Lew Leslie's International Revue and quickly became one of the most enduring standards of the Great American Songbook.

Django Reinhardt recorded Exactly Like You several times during his career, and his interpretations helped establish it as a favorite within the Gypsy Jazz repertoire. Its memorable melody and well-balanced harmonic progression make it an ideal vehicle for improvisation.

Musical character:
Exactly Like You is a bright medium-tempo swing tune with an elegant melody, catchy phrasing, and a classic 32-bar song form. Its straightforward yet sophisticated harmony has made it a favorite among jazz musicians for decades.

Connection to Manouche jazz:
Thanks to Django Reinhardt's recordings, Exactly Like You became firmly established in the Manouche Jazz repertoire. It remains a popular choice at Gypsy Jazz festivals, workshops, and jam sessions, where musicians enjoy its swinging feel and improvisational possibilities.

Interesting facts:

• The song was composed in 1930 by Jimmy McHugh with lyrics by Dorothy Fields.
• It was introduced in Lew Leslie's International Revue before becoming a widely performed jazz standard.
• Django Reinhardt recorded the tune multiple times, making it one of the American standards most closely associated with Gypsy Jazz.
• The song has been recorded by countless jazz legends, including Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie.
• Its balanced harmonic structure and memorable melody have made it a favorite for both beginning and advanced jazz improvisers.

Exactly Like You is one of the timeless gems of the Great American Songbook. Blending lyrical charm with effortless swing, it continues to be a cornerstone of both mainstream jazz and the Manouche Jazz tradition.