fake books

Fake books are collections or editions of musical scores that provide simplified, often condensed, versions of popular tunes, allowing musicians to quickly learn or perform pieces without needing the exact sheet music. They typically contain melody lines, chord symbols, and lyrics, but may omit detailed arrangements or complex details found in original compositions. Originally designed for jazz and popular musicians, fake books serve as versatile resources for improvisation and accompaniment, offering a practical, accessible reference while encouraging musical creativity.