Duke EllingtonAbout:
- Born April 29, 1899 in Washington, D.C. - Ellington gained his nickname "Duke" from his friends because of his flashy style -He was a pianist, composer and band leader - Led the band, "The Washingtonians" - One of his most famous pieces is "It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing" - Became the house band at the "Cotton Club" in Harlem, which helped gain their national fame - Won many awards, including 13 grammy's - Helped nationalize the importance of jazz music -Passed away in New York, New York on May 24, 1974 - Song wrote after his death in his honor, "Sir Duke" |