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Edward Kennedy Ellington | |
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Born: April 29, 1899 Hometown: Washington D.C. Instrument: Pianist/Composer Music Training: Childhood piano lessons from age 7, Harvey Brooks, Oliver "Doc" Perry and Louis Brown Bands and Orchestras: The Washingtonians Signature Song: "Satin Doll" Duke Ellington biography: Perhaps his greatest asset was having been born to the right parents. Daisy Kennedy Ellington and James Edward Ellington were not only outstanding citizens in the Washington area, but also taught him proper manners and etiquette. Perhaps it was this fact that contributed to his royal countenance which led to his childhood friends nicknaming him "Duke." He attended Armstrong Manual Training School to study commercial art rather than attend an academic school. He became more interested in piano during his adolescent years and after hearing Harvey Brooks play while in Philadelphia he sought him out to help further his piano playing. After Oliver "Doc" Perry and Louis Brown taught the fledgling pianist how to read music, he dropped out of school to pursue a career in music. He found work at local clubs and cafes in the Washington area. In late 1917 he formed his own band "The Duke's Seranaders" and bought his own house. To support himself the group played at society balls and embassy parties throughout the Washington and Virginia area. In 1918, he married Edna Thompson and the following year his wife gave birth to their son Mercer. He followed the advice of Fats Waller and moved to New York where he played for awhile at jazz clubs mostly in Harlem. He changed the name of his band to the Washingtonians and played at places like Connie’s Inn, the Hollywood Club (Club Kentucky), Ciro’s, the Plantation Club. In 1927 he secured a gig for his orchestra at Owney Madden's hotspot the Cotton Club in Harlem where they stayed through 1931. He signed an agreement to have Irving Mills produce and publish his music. Some of his greatest recordings were "Rockin’ in Rhythm," "Satin Doll," "New Orleans," "A Drum is a Women," "Take the 'A' Train," "Happy-Go-Lucky Local," "The Mooche," and "Crescendo in Blue." He not only became the most sought after band in the world, but also wrote and recorded hundreds of musical compositions. After his death his son Mercer took over the orchestra. Died: May 24, 1974
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