In the mid-1970s, two college students created the iconic unauthorized Real Book, a collection of jazz music played by many jazz musicians as it contained an updated repertoire. Despite bootleg copies, the official Real Book was later published legally. Critics argue that the Real Book simplifies and standardizes jazz music, missing the essence of jazz as an improvisational art form deeply rooted in Black cultural history. While useful for jazz education, it is believed that true mastery of jazz involves immersing oneself in the music’s culture and tradition, learning from experienced artists, and exploring various interpretations of jazz standards.
https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/the-real-book/