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At WSJ On The Duke Ellington/Conny Plank Sessions Rotations

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Duke Ellington portrait, 1951. Duke ellington, Jazz musicians, Ellington jpg (500x585)

Cover Duke Ellington portrait, 1951. Duke ellington, Jazz musicians, Ellington (500x585)

Table of Contents

Early Life and Music Career

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born on April 29, 1899 in Washington, D.C. to a middle-class family. His parents, James Edward and Daisy Kennedy Ellington, both played the piano, and encouraged their son's musical interests. Ellington began taking piano lessons at the age of seven, and by his early teens, he was already playing professionally. He dropped out of high school to pursue his music career full-time, and soon formed his own band, "The Duke's Serenaders." In the 1920s, Ellington and his band moved to New York City, where they began to achieve national recognition. They were known for their unique sound, which blended elements of jazz, blues, and swing music.

Collaborations and Achievements

Throughout his career, Ellington collaborated with many other musicians and artists, including Billy Strayhorn, John Coltrane, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong. One of his most famous collaborations was with composer and arranger Billy Strayhorn. Together, they wrote many of Ellington's most well-known songs, including "Take the 'A' Train" and "Lush Life." Ellington also received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1969, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States. He also received 13 Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Hall of Fame.

Style and Influences

Ellington's unique style and sound was influenced by a variety of musical genres, including jazz, blues, and classical music. He was also influenced by the social and cultural movements of his time, including the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement. One of his signature techniques was the use of "jungle" sounds, which he created by having his musicians play their instruments in unconventional ways. He also used complex harmonies and rhythms, which helped to establish him as one of the most innovative composers of his time.

Social Impact and Legacy

Ellington was not only a musical innovator, but also a social and cultural icon. He was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that celebrated African American art, literature, and music. Ellington's music also played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement. His songs, such as "Black and Tan Fantasy" and "Harlem Airshaft," celebrated African American culture and history, and helped to inspire a sense of pride and identity among African Americans. Today, Ellington's music continues to influence and inspire musicians and fans around the world. His legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create positive change in the world.

Favorite Songs and Albums

Some of Ellington's most popular songs include "Take the 'A' Train," "Mood Indigo," and "Don't Get Around Much Anymore." He also recorded many successful albums throughout his career, including "Ellington at Newport" and "Duke Ellington's Greatest Hits." One of his most critically acclaimed albums is "Black, Brown and Beige," which was released in 1958. The album is a tribute to African American history and culture, and features some of Ellington's most innovative and complex compositions.

Conclusion

Duke Ellington was one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His unique sound and innovative compositions helped to establish him as one of the most important figures in jazz and popular music. Throughout his career, Ellington collaborated with many other musicians and artists, and received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. His music continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world, and his legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create positive change in the world.

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