Free Jazz Standard Sheet Music Downloads

"Can't We Talk It Over" is a romantic ballad composed by Victor Young with lyrics by Ned Washington, published in 1931. Young, a Warsaw Conservatory-trained violinist turned prolific Hollywood composer, is remembered for standards such as "When I Fall in Love" and "Street of Dreams," as well as his Academy Award-winning score for Around the World in 80 Days.

Set in E♭, the song follows a 32-bar form with an elegant, sweeping melody that reflects Young's gift for cinematic lyricism. The title's plaintive appeal lends itself naturally to a slow ballad treatment, where the song's rich harmonic language and long melodic phrases can be savored. The composition's warmth and directness make it an effective vehicle for crooners and jazz vocalists seeking to convey tender emotion.

Ben Bernie and His Orchestra made the first recording in December 1931, and Bing Crosby's Brunswick recording from the same period helped establish the song's popularity. Rudy Vallee also recorded a notable version, cementing the tune as a favorite ballad of the early Depression era.