is the most widely used collection of jazz standards, often referred to as a "fake book" by musicians . Originally a bootleg publication, it has since become the definitive reference for jazz education and professional performance . History and Origins
The book is designed for practical use on the bandstand, typically featuring: The Real Book - 99% Invisible The Real Book
The Real Book was famously created in the mid-1970s by two students at the . Its origins are steeped in jazz lore: is the most widely used collection of jazz
: In 2004, the music publisher Hal Leonard released the first legal, licensed version, known as the Sixth Edition . This edition corrected many transcription errors and ensured songwriters finally received royalties . Content and Format Its origins are steeped in jazz lore: :
: It was named "The Real Book" as a play on the term "fake book" and to signal its superior accuracy compared to the poorly transcribed commercial books of the time .