The Duke

It is very likely Dear Reader, that you have heard, played, or otherwise enjoyed the music of Edward Kennedy Ellington. Using the name more readily recognized, “Duke” Ellington, gives you an “Ah-ha” moment. The Duke spurned categorizing his music; he preferred the limitless category— “American Music.” Most people tend to think of Duke Ellington as a Jazz musician; and he was, of course, one of those; also— IMHO—The best of that genre. His music cosmos was vast, deep, and encompassing.

Just to tease your mind, please turn to Number 728 in THE UNITED METHODIST HYMNAL (©1989); there you will find the hymn, “Come Sunday,” by The Duke himself. Bet you didn’t expect that, did you!? For over fifty years Duke Ellington graced the ears of, well, the world, with his music. Some believe that Ellington’s orchestra was at its peak during Billy Strayhorn’s tenure there–think “Take the A Train”. Strayhorn was a brilliant, gifted, composer, but was better when teamed with Duke Ellington. In the opinion of Gunther Schuller and Barry Kernfeld, Duke Ellington was “the most significant composer of the genre.”

Duke Ellington composed music. He played musical instruments. He had his own orchestra. He was in movies. Sadly, the Duke died on May 24, 1974. He was 75 years old. Six generations enjoyed The Duke, up close and personal. We were fortunate in those years. Unfortunately, a fire broke out in Universal Studios in California on June 1, 2008, where thousands of digital, and other musical treasures were stored. Much of Ellington’s—and many other artists’ work was lost in that fire.

Here are some of his honors and awards: 1960, Hollywood Walk of Fame, contribution to recording industry; 1966, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award; 1969, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the US; 1971, an Honorary Ph. D. from the Berklee College of Music; 1973; the Legion of Honour by France, its highest civilian honor; 1999, posthumous Special Pulitzer Prize for his lifetime contributions to music and culture. And “if that don’t knock your hat in the creek,” try this; Duke Ellington earned 14 Grammy awards from 1959 to 2000, three of which were posthumous and a total of 24 nominations, as well as a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for his lifetime contributions to music and culture

Music is almost a religion for humanity—and religion is rife with music. Music is, some will say, “In our DNA”. When King Saul was suffering severe depression and needed help, David, the musical shepherd boy, was summoned to come play his harp. It helped the king recover. Years later when David became king and came back from a significant victory there was singing and dancing n the streets. As King David neared the end of his life, he inaugurated his Son, Solomon as king. A great celebration was held. There were thousands of musicians invited, and offering their praise. David also made an important announcement for carrying the Ark of the Covenant. And, music was required at a precarious time in Elisha’s life; musicians were called forth and great blessings came.

So, Duke Ellington not only carried on music, a vital ancient ingredient of life, he also pressed it onward and upward. It is sad to recall that for Ellington’s orchestra, at least three fourths of their playing years Jim Crow laws laid heavy on them; they were either banned from some venues and relegated to second class accommodations in others. Still, his music sings through the years. So, for your delight here is Duke Ellington, his orchestra, and a taste of his offerings; Sophisticated Lady — Who can forget Satin Doll!? …and this Jazz classic, “C Jam Blues,” is an ambrosia of refined jazz sight and sound.

Enjoy!