Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington was an influential American jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader born in 1899. He played a pivotal role in shaping jazz music, blending various styles and incorporating sophisticated harmonies. Ellington led a famous big band, performing at the Cotton Club in Harlem and traveling worldwide. His works, such as "Mood Indigo" and "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)," showcased his innovative approach to orchestration and improvisation. Over his 50-year career, Ellington earned numerous awards and honors, leaving a lasting legacy on jazz and American music as a whole. He passed away in 1974.