Duke Ellington was a renowned jazz musician, composer, and bandleader who rose to fame in the 1920s and 1930s. Born in Washington D.C. in 1899, Ellington's early life was marked by racial segregation and class divisions. He found solace in music, particularly jazz, which became a defining feature of his career. Ellington's band, which included musicians such as Johnny Hodges and Cootie Williams, was known for its unique blend of jazz and classical music. Despite facing racism and prejudice throughout his life, Ellington persevered and went on to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969 and died in 1974, leaving behind a legacy of over 1,000 compositions and a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and music lovers to this day.
[... more]