Duke Ellington – Perfection In Jazz LP (White Vinyl)

Duke Ellington – Perfection In Jazz

The Duke.

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz, transcended the boundaries of time with his incomparable contributions to music. His career spanned more than five decades, during which he not only left a lasting mark on jazz, but also became a cultural icon. As a pianist, he was one of the most important inventors of the stride piano. As a composer, he wrote almost 2000 compositions (songs and suites), 100 of which soon became jazz standards. As a bandleader, he contributed to the development of swing as a big band style. Ellington's genius lay in his ability to elevate jazz from a danceable popular music form to a sophisticated art form that embraced complexity and nuance. His arrangements were intricate, emphasizing the individuality of each instrument while blending into a cohesive, harmonically rich tapestry. His compositions such as "Mood Indigo" or "Take the 'A' Train" are characterized by rich textures, harmonies and a sense of drama. Ellington's world tours as a cultural ambassador not only introduced audiences to jazz, but also challenged stereotypes about African-American musicians. His orchestra's performances were not just concerts, but cultural events that celebrated diversity and demonstrated the power of music as a universal language. In addition to countless awards, including Grammys and the Pulitzer Prize, he was also posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States.

Tracklist:
Side A
Take the "A" Train  
In A Sentimental Mood  
Mood Indigo  
St. Louis Blues  
It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) [with ­Rosemary Clooney]  
Solitude  
 
Side B
Tenderly  
Perdido  
Prelude to a Kiss  
Satin Doll  
Haupe  
Dancing in the Dark

Label: Magic Of Vinyl
Released: 2024