"First Song" is an instrumental jazz ballad by the American double bassist Charlie Haden (1937-2014), who is credited as its sole composer. No lyricist is credited for the original work, although a later vocal derivative with lyrics exists. The original recording was made by the Charlie Haden Quartet West on June 1, 1988, and released that year on the album In Angel City, where it appears as track 2 under the title "First Song (For Ruth)". The album is classed as jazz.
The tune has been recorded by many jazz players. Versions include performances by Geri Allen, with Haden and Paul Motian in 1989, by David Sanborn in 1991, by Stan Getz and Kenny Barron in 1992, and by Haden, Billy Higgins and Enrico Pieranunzi in 1992. Haden also recorded it with Pat Metheny in 1997 and with Jim Hall in 2014.
