Tribute To Duke Ellington – 1974
Duke Ellington
A posthumous tribute to the masterful arranger-composer-bandleader-pianist
Click here to Support Jazz on the Tube
Shortly after Duke Ellington passed away in 1974, CBS News paid tribute to the superb and innovative musician with a special half-hour program.
First Ellington is seen in 1962 leading his orchestra through a hits medley of “Satin Doll,” “Solitude,” “Mood Indigo” (featuring clarinetist Russell Procope) and “Sophisticated Lad”; the latter is climaxed by baritonist Harry Carney holding an endless long note via circular breathing.
The music is followed by a discussion featuring Sonny Greer, Russell Procope, Billy Taylor and Stanley Dance reminiscing about Ellington, his personality and his music.
Ella Fitzgerald is also featured in a short interview about Duke before the program closes with Ellington in 1973 telling a story and taking well-deserved bows.
-Scott Yanow
Stan Getz