Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington on vinyl: the composer of jazz

In short: Duke Ellington (1899–1974) led his own orchestra for almost 50 years and wrote hundreds of pieces, many of them standards today. From the late twenties he played New York’s Cotton Club; Billy Strayhorn became his long-time partner – his “Take The ‘A’ Train” became the orchestra’s signature tune. He is regarded as one of the most important composers of the 20th century. The Vinyl Room currently has 9 Duke Ellington records.

What makes Duke Ellington special?

He wrote for the voices of his musicians, not for instruments in general – which is why his orchestra sounds unmistakable. We have “The Bethlehem Years”, “Duke Ellington Presents...”, “Great Times!” with Billy Strayhorn at the second piano and the compilation “The Birth Of Big Band Jazz” with early recordings by the Ellington and Fletcher Henderson orchestras.

A special one is “Money Jungle”: Ellington in a trio with Charles Mingus and Max Roach, recorded in 1962 – surprisingly modern and edgy. Plus the “70th Birthday Concert” from 1969 and an album with singer Teresa Brewer.

From our stock

First pressings

Records by Duke Ellington

→ Solid State · Big band · Swing · Jazz on vinyl

FAQ

Who was Billy Strayhorn? Ellington’s long-time composer, arranger and partner; he wrote “Take The ‘A’ Train”.

What is “Money Jungle”? A trio album with Charles Mingus and Max Roach, recorded in 1962.

How long did Ellington lead his orchestra? Almost 50 years, from the twenties until his death in 1974.

Which records do you have? Editions from several decades, including historical recordings from the 1920s – 9 records in all.