Fakebooks

This database indexes fakebooks in the San Francisco Public Library's reference collection. Fakebooks are printed music collections that contain simplified versions of songs and instrumental music. Usually they contain only melody, lyrics, and a chord progression. The lyrics may be incomplete, and musical introductions and interludes are frequently omitted. Fakebook arrangements are also called lead sheets and are popular among jazz and lounge musicians. Lead sheets provide the minimal music information needed for musicians to create their own arrangement on the spot. As a result a single fakebook can contain hundreds of musical works.

Search Hints:

• Truncate titles and names for best results (livin will retrieve livin’ and living; bart will retrieve bartlett and bartholemew)
• Search by any word or string of words in the title.
• Enter only one songwriter’s last name.

For assistance call or visit:

Art, Music and Recreation Center
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 557-4525