“C Jam Blues,” which originated as an idea by clarinetist Barney Bigard in 1941, was first introduced by Duke Ellington the next year, both on record and for a Soundie film.

The simple two-note melody has been performed a countless number of times since.

By 1972, Ellington was using “C Jam Blues” as a way to introduce some of his key soloists.

This version from Oct. 23, 1972 was performed at New York’s Lincoln Center, and features solos from trumpeter Cootie Williams, baritonist Harry Carney, trombonist Booty Wood, and clarinetist Russell Procope.

-Scott Yanow