Tiger Rag
Charlie Parker/Lennie Tristano Lyrics

The song "Tiger Rag" by Charlie Parker and Lennie Tristano is a lively bebop rendition of the iconic jazz standard that expresses enthusiasm and a desire for the tiger to come out and play. The lyrics create an imaginary world where a tiger is seen as a playful creature that is enjoyed by everyone, causing them to request a performance of the eponymous jazz piece. The repetition of the phrase "Hold that tiger! Choke him, poke him, kick him, and soak him!" conveys a sense of urgency in finding and controlling the tiger effectively. The chorus, "Where's that tiger? Where's that tiger?" adds further excitement and anticipation to the song, culminating in a climax that activates the senses and inspires the listener to join in the fun.

"Tiger Rag" was originally written in 1917 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, and it quickly became one of the most recorded tunes in jazz history. The song's structure is based on a series of sequences, with each extraordinary sequence featuring a distinct melody, rhythm, or harmony that is passed around between the players. Bebop artists, like Parker and Tristano, took this structure and added more complex chords and improvisation to create a version that was infused with their own unique jazz style. In conclusion, "Tiger Rag" is a fun song that offers a unique perspective on a classic jazz standard through the lens of bebop and improvisation.