Duke Ellington (1899–1974) was a legendary American composer, pianist, and bandleader, widely regarded as one of the greatest figures in jazz history. Born in Washington, D.C., Ellington showed early talent for music, moving to New York City in the 1920s where he rose to fame as a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance. He led his orchestra for over 50 years, creating a distinctive sound that blended jazz, blues, classical, and swing. Ellington composed thousands of pieces, including iconic works like "Mood Indigo," "Sophisticated Lady," and "Take the 'A' Train." Beyond jazz, his music embraced a wide range of influences, earning him recognition as a groundbreaking composer. Throughout his career, he worked with celebrated musicians such as Billy Strayhorn, Johnny Hodges, and Ella Fitzgerald. Ellington's innovations expanded the boundaries of jazz, elevating it as an art form and earning him numerous honors, including 13 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His contributions left an indelible mark on American music and culture.
