Possibly, the most prolific writer and arranger in Jazz’s 100 year history, Edward Kennedy ‘Duke’ Ellington emerges as one that could swing with the best of them, as well as provide a lush array of musical portraits. Duke excelled in many ways; He was an excellent pianist, a superb arranger, an inexhaustible writer and an excellent band leader and showman.
It was because of his sophisticated demeanor that Ellington was nicknamed the ‘Duke’. This classy musician wrote literally thousands of songs while maintaining a whirlwind touring schedule.
Ellington was unique in that he actually shaped his music to fit his outstanding soloists, even using Adelaide Hall in wordless vocalization in his huge hit “Creole Love Call”.
Hundreds of Ellington’s scores became jazz standards. His classics include “Mood Indigo”, “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing”, “Prelude to a Kiss”, “Solitude”, “Sophisticated Lady”, “Take the A Train”, and “Black and Tan Fantasy”.
Ellington was born April 29, 1899 and died May 24, 1974, having stayed at the top of his craft for over 55 years.
Ellington – Masterpieces 1926 to 1949
Masterpieces 1926-49 (Mini Lp Sleeve)
Tags: sophisticated arranger