For many years I have believed that Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington is the greatest composer. He wrote more than 3,000 pieces of music while managing a big band, touring the world with its members, and leading them as their pianist. Just his piano skills would have assured his status as one of the best jazz figures in history. Adding to this achievement his catalogue of diverse compositions reveals an unmatched genius whose career spanned more than a half-century.
It's great to know that "Five Minutes That Will Make You Love Duke Ellington," an August 3, 2022 The New York Times article by Giovanni Russonello and Marcus J. Moore backs up my conviction about the Duke. Enjoy reading this article featuring 13 music experts citing their favorite Ellington piece and listening to the accompanying recordings. Then start collecting Ellington music. Any of his suites will do, but you can also check out his collaborations with John Coltrane, Ella Fitzgerald, and Charles Mingus, among many other jazz greats. I have listened to Ellington as background music for work, to get my body into a swinging, dancing rhythm, and for serious listening. He always come through.
